You've probably seen a picture or two of Edmonton Oilers players with Artist Caps and Plungers, and here's why they do it.

Hockey players are a very suspicious bunch. From former goaltender Patrick Roy talking to his goal posts to players never walking over the team logo in the dressing room - there are things that hockey players do that seem strange to those who observe them from a distance.

So what's the deal with the Edmonton Oilers handing out an artists cap and plunger after a game? More on that in a minute.

One ritual that hockey players take part in regularly is handing out a "player of the game" award. It can range from a thick chain and pendant to a wrestling style belt to a special t-shirt.

The Oilers have used a motorcycle leather vest and helmet for their player of the game award for years. That changed this year.

Instead of giving out one award they decided to give out two. One for offensive player of the game, and one for the best defensive player. Guess what they give those players?

That's right, an artist cap and a plunger.

The artist cap is for offensive player, "painting" their masterpiece on the ice. The plunger is for the defensive player, getting their team out of...sticky situations. And another thing - they only hand these awards out after wins

To my knowledge, no other team acknowledges both aspects of the game with separate awards. One thing is for sure, it's definitely the only time you want to be photographed with a plunger.

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