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‘Midnight Rule’ dictates Mammoth’s celebrations after first playoff win
TL;DR
The Utah Mammoth celebrated their first playoff win under the 'Midnight Rule,' which allows players to reflect on the game only until midnight. After that, they shift focus to the next match.
Key points
- Utah Mammoth celebrated their first playoff win
- The 'Midnight Rule' limits reflection to before midnight
- Coach André Tourigny enforces the rule
- Mammoth defeated the Vegas Golden Knights
- Game took place on April 21, 2026
Mentioned in this story
André Tourigny
Utah MammothVegas Golden KnightsDylan Guenther
Utah Mammoth right wing Dylan Guenther (11), reacts after his goal against the Vegas Golden Knights during first-round Stanley Cup playoff series Tuesday, April 21, 2026, in Las Vegas. | Ian Maule
What do the Utah Mammoth and Cinderella have in common?
They’re both only allowed to party until midnight.
Mammoth coach André Tourigny employs the “Midnight Rule,” which dictates that, win or lose, you only get to dwell on the result of a game until the clock strikes 12. After that, you start preparing for the next one.
No exceptions — even if it’s the franchise’s playoff win and you’re in one of the most notorious party cities in the world.
“We were happy, obviously. There were cheers, but (it) was not like we achieved what we wanted,” Tourigny said in a Wednesday morning availability the day after the Mammoth’s 3-2 victory over the Vegas Golden Knights.
“Yesterday, there (was) a lot of pride, guys were happy about the game, but at the same time, they were really even-keeled — and that’s important because if you get carried away, one way or the other. ... that can have a long-term effect on the playoffs.”
One win down, 15 to go.
To this point in the series, neither team has emerged as a clear favorite. Both teams have had their moments in terms of controlling possession, but neither has been able to run up the score. Both games were decided by one mistake.
That’s why playoff hockey is so intense. Any shift can be the difference between a win and a loss, and the guys treat it as such.
Q&A
What is the 'Midnight Rule' used by the Utah Mammoth?
The 'Midnight Rule' allows players to celebrate or reflect on a game only until midnight, after which they must prepare for the next game.
Who is the coach of the Utah Mammoth that implements the 'Midnight Rule'?
The coach of the Utah Mammoth who implements the 'Midnight Rule' is André Tourigny.
When did the Utah Mammoth achieve their first playoff win?
The Utah Mammoth achieved their first playoff win on April 21, 2026.
Which team did the Utah Mammoth defeat in their first playoff game?
The Utah Mammoth defeated the Vegas Golden Knights in their first playoff game.
