20 hockey smiles that prove teeth are overrated

10. Claude Giroux

The Pride of Hearst, Ontario, is the first of three straight Flyers on this list. The small town of Hearst is known for two things — logging and Claude Giroux. Most people from Hearst or neighboring Kapuskasing will be quick to tell you a story about watching young Giroux play, how they knew he was a star early on, or, if you are my friend Jeff, how you used to fold him in half when he took the puck in the corners.

Despite best efforts from my friend Jeff, Giroux lost his teeth in the NHL. It was a crosscheck to the face that did him in, which he summed up as “part of the game.” It’s prime example of Giroux showing off that Northern Ontario tough-guy mentality.

Despite a great toothless grin, Giroux is edged out by his current linemate on when it comes to the Flyers’ best smile.