GLENDALE, Ariz. – Professional athletes are naturally competitive – and it doesn't much matter what they're competing in. A game of cards. Balancing hockey sticks on index fingers. Who can eat the most crackers without a sip of water?

So as the Phoenix Coyotes prepare to take part in the Western Conference final for the first time in franchise history, the time-honored tradition of growing playoff beards in the name of team unity is the latest competitive sport.


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