What’s better than playoff hockey? How about hockey… played by puppies?
The Stanley Pup returns June 6 and June 8, airing on TruTV and bringing together 32 rescue puppies—each representing an NHL team—for an adorable twist on the Stanley Cup playoffs. The event is produced by animal advocate and television producer Michael Levitt, in partnership with the National Hockey League and Petco Love.
Levitt joined NBC Palm Springs with a few of the stars of the show—rescued puppies found near Desert Hot Springs, now ready for adoption.
“This is a labor of love,” Levitt said. “We created the Stanley Pup to bring awareness to rescue dogs and show just how special they are. All the pups in the event are available for adoption in their respective cities.”
The puppies are divided into NHL divisions: Atlantic vs. Metropolitan and Pacific vs. Central. They compete in playful games with chew toys, stuffed animals, and even plush pucks. Anything a pup drags into the net counts as a goal.
Fred Roggin joked that his assigned pup, representing the Rangers, didn’t seem playoff-ready. “If this is the energy level we’re bringing to the Stanley Pup, the Atlantic Division might be in trouble,” he laughed.
Local residents can adopt the featured puppies—or become fosters—through RescueLife.org, a nonprofit working right here in the Coachella Valley.
“Our hope is that people watch the Stanley Pup, smile a lot, and then go out and rescue a dog of their own,” said Levitt. “These animals are not broken. It’s people who’ve failed them. They deserve a spot in your starting lineup.”
Tune in: The Stanley Pup airs Friday on TruTV at 2:30 p.m. PT, just before Game 2 of the NHL Stanley Cup Final.
Explore: NBCPalmSprings.com, where we are connecting the Valley.
By: Fred Roggin
June 5, 2025
