Free giveaways have been a staple of sporting events – including NHL games – for decades. Over time, they have evolved from mere promotional items into sought-after collectibles.
While giveaways go back decades, the real interest in collecting them took off during the hobby boom in the 1990s, coinciding with the NHL’s growing emphasis on branding and fan engagement at a time when the league was expanding. Teams began releasing limited-edition items — especially bobblehead figures — that celebrated star players. Other items included t-shirts, tote bags, mugs and anything else you could slap a logo on.
The giveaways created a sense of excitement when trying to decide which games to attend, driving up attendance on promotional nights and giving those items increased value on the secondary market. Over time, teams have gotten more creative when it comes to what they planned to hand out. That, too, helped grow value.
The collectability of giveaways stems from several factors – although limited availability remains a major factor. You just had to be at the game to get the item. These days, gameday giveaways are more than a marketing tool: they have become true artifacts of fandom.
Here are six notable giveaways NHL teams will he handing out during the 2025-26 season:
Washington Capitals’ Oven Mitt
(November 26, 2025)
The Caps get my list going with oven mitts. It may seem like an odd giveaway, but it makes plenty of sense. The mitts, featuring goaltender Logan Thompson’s gear on one side and Charlie Lindgren’s on the other, will be given away on November 26 when the Capitals take on the Winnipeg Jets, is the night before Thanksgiving. You’ll be needing those gloves if you’re making a turkey.
L.A. Kings’ Snoopy Bobblehead
(December 13, 2025)
You didn’t think we’d get too far without a bobblehead making the list. The King’s family night on December 13 brings with it a Snoopy bobblehead – just in time for Christmas – for the first 10,000 fans in attendance.
Anaheim Ducks’ Nutquacker
(December 22, 2025)
Speaking of Christmas, the Ducks are giving away a nutcracker – I mean, nutquacker – that’s a must-have for under your tree this season.
New York Islanders’ Ugly Sweater Jersey
(December 23, 2025)
Ugly Christmas sweaters have become a big thing in recent years, and the Isles are getting in on the act two days before Christmas. The team plans to hand out ugly sweaters to the first 10,000 fans in attendance.
Washington Capitals’ Alex Ovechkin Floss Holder (January 5, 2026)
The Caps make the list twice with a very off (and fun!) Ovechkin dental floss holder. This unique figurine will go to all fans who attend the January 5 game against the Anaheim Ducks.
St. Louis Blues’ Wayne Gretzky Bobblehead (March 10, 2026)
Name a team that comes to mind whenever you hear the name Gretzky? The Edmonton Oilers? Check. Los Angeles Kings? Check. The St. Louis Blues? What? That’s exactly what the team wants you to remember with this unique bobblehead. It should be noted that Gretzky played just 31 games with the Blues.
Clemente Lisi is a lifelong Rangers fan who first started collecting cards in 1986. He collects both vintage and modern with a focus on rookie cards. Follow him on X/Twitter @ClementeLisi.
Love hockey? Join the Puck Junk Facebook Group, listen to the Podcast, subscribe to the Newsletter and YouTube Channel, and support this site at the Online Shop.■
Related Posts:
