TV spots to celebrate Stanley Cup

NEW YORK --The National Hockey League (NHL®) will unveil two new national TV spots to commemorate the 125th anniversary of the Stanley Cup®, the most coveted trophy in sports. The TV spots will debut today during NHL programming in the U.S. and Canada.

In the spot "Imperfectly Perfect,"the Stanley Cup's splendor and unique blemishes are illuminated in amazing intimate visuals of the 3-foot, 35-pound trophy. The wear of its 125-year existence is found in and around the names that are "forever etched into this scuffed and scarred, yet still beautiful silver skin,"making its imperfections "a testament to time spent in the grasp of heroes."
"If This Cup Could Talk" showcases the pure adulation and exhilaration the Stanley Cup® inspires in players and fans alike. In the spot, photos and video feature players and teams celebrating their championship wins with the Stanley Cup®, while fans revel in the company of the iconic, globetrotting trophy. As the narration notes, "If this Cup could talk . . . it would recall countless hearts it has touched . . . and all of the places it has been."

Both TV spots were developed by Las Vegas-based creative shop R&R, in collaboration with the NHL. The agency also worked with the NHL on a long-form video piece featuring the Stanley Cup® that will be released next week.
"As we commemorate the 125th anniversary of the Stanley Cup, we take a moment to recognize its significance in the NHL's 100-year history," said Brian Jennings, NHL Chief Brand Officer and Executive Vice President. " The Stanley Cup continues to dutifully serve in its mission as a worldwide hockey ambassador and our symbol of excellence. This campaign celebrates the Stanley Cup's continued impact in the growth of the game, on and off the ice."
March 18 marks the 125th anniversary of the 1892 donation of the Stanley Cup® by Sir Frederick Arthur, Lord Stanley of Preston and son of the Earl of Derby, to be presented to "the championship hockey club of the Dominion of Canada."
"Imperfectly Perfect" and "If This Cup Could Talk" will run across the media platforms of NBC, Rogers and the NHL -- including NHL Network™, NHL.com, in-arena, digital and social media. Fans can follow the conversation via the hashtag #StanleyCup.