For hockey players, a nickname is often a badge of honour, a term of endearment, or a legacy that lasts longer than their playing career. In a special bonus episode of The Gazette's Hockey Inside/Out show, two members of the 1986 Stanley Cup-winning Montreal Canadiens pulled back the curtain on the locker room tradition of monikers.
The Origins of Knuckles and Greenie
Host Stu Cowan was joined by former teammates Chris 'Knuckles' Nilan and Rick 'Greenie' Green, who shared the often-humorous stories behind their own famous handles. Nilan, known as one of the game's most formidable enforcers, explained exactly who bestowed the iconic "Knuckles" nickname upon him and why it stuck throughout his career.
Meanwhile, Green's story reveals how even the simplest derivations of a last name become a permanent part of a player's identity within the team's inner circle. Their revelations provide a personal glimpse into the camaraderie that defined the Canadiens' storied 1986 championship run.
From Billy to the Rest: Nicknames Across Generations
The conversation wasn't limited to the past. The duo also addressed a modern mystery: how did current Canadiens defenceman Mike Matheson wind up with the nickname 'Billy'? The answer connects the present-day roster to the club's long-standing culture of inside jokes and character assessment.
Nilan and Green went on to share a roster of other favourite nicknames from their playing days, explaining the often spontaneous and hilarious ways their former teammates earned their alternate identities. These stories highlight the humour and brotherhood that exists behind the scenes of professional sports.
More Stories to Come
This bonus episode, released on December 7, 2025, is just a taste of the content available to fans. The Hockey Inside/Out team confirmed the weekly show will return on Wednesday, followed by three additional bonus episodes.
Fans are encouraged to subscribe to the Hockey Inside/Out YouTube channel to catch all the discussions. The show is also available on major podcast platforms like Spotify and Apple Podcasts, ensuring Canadiens enthusiasts never miss a deep dive into team history and current affairs.
The tales of "Knuckles," "Greenie," and "Billy" are more than just fun anecdotes; they are threads in the rich tapestry of Montreal Canadiens lore, connecting legends of the past with the heroes of today.