Short Shifts Power Rankings: October 2

Hockey is back and so are the Short Shifts Power Rankings. You know the drill, throw out the Xs and Os and join Short Shifts for our own weekly power rankings. What is our criteria? Whatever makes us smile, laugh, cry or any other wholesome feeling. This list is updated every Friday with our top moments of the week.

1. Zach Werenski and his son

Zach Werenski’s son stole the show on the blue carpet on Thursday. The Columbus Blue Jackets defenseman arrived at the team’s home opener holding his 5-month-old son, Hudson, in his arms. The adorable baby sported a mini–Blue Jackets knit hat and sweater and even had a pair of knit skates.

Ranking: Dad's mini me

2. Evgeni Malkin's aura

Evgeni Malkin needed some help understanding his aura. The Pittsburgh Penguins shared a behind-the-scenes video of the veteran forward getting his aura read during their media day. Malkin kept looking over at the camera in disbelief as he got his photo taken and while his mostly orange aura was explained to him. The artist informed Geno the orange represents “creativity and sensuality.” The veteran forward wasn’t completely sold, but at least he got a hilarious photo out of it.

Ranking: Confused energy

3. Gavin McKenna's mom

Gavin McKenna’s mom had a priceless reaction to her son’s NHL debut for the Toronto Maple Leafs on Tuesday. Sportsnet mic’d up the rookie’s mother, Krystal, as she watched her son take the ice during warmups. “What the hell, my son is in the NHL,” Krystal said in the clip. “It’s wild.” She then wiped away tears.

Ranking: Pinch me moment

4. Zach Benson's haircut

Zach Benson visited the barber shop before the Buffalo Sabres season opener. His new haircut was unveiled in a video posted by the team. Benson was asked, “if the rumors were true?” before he took off his helmet to show off his new mohawk.

Ranking: New season buzz(cut)

5. Washington Capitals' dogs

The Washington Capitals put their pups in the hot seat. Players interviewed their dogs in a video posted by the team. Their furry companions were asked hockey questions like what position they would be. The responses involved a whole lot of sniffing of the mic and mistaking it for a treat.

Ranking: Hard-sniffing journalism