Famous actor Russell Crowe responds to Devon Levi's latest gesture
Photo credit: Dan Hamilton-Imagn Images
Russell Crowe has noticed Devon Levi's Gladiator-inspired habit. The Oscar-winning actor responded on X after the Edmonton Oilers goaltender explained why he presses his bare hand against the ice during stoppages, a routine Levi linked to Maximus rubbing sand in the arena.
Crowe's message was short and fitting.
Strength and Honour young man. Devon Levi from the Edmonton Oilers
The shoutout arrives after a milestone night for Levi. The Montreal-area native stopped all 19 shots Saturday in Toronto for his first career shutout, a 1-0 Oilers win over the Maple Leafs.
Evan Bouchard scored the only goal, and the result extended Toronto's losing streak to six games.
Where the Sand Scene Fits In
Watch Levi between whistles, and you may see him pull off his blocker and set his bare hand on the ice.
Speaking with Sportsnet after the game, he said the habit might come from the famous Gladiator scene where the hero picks up a handful of sand. Levi admitted he is not sure that is why he started doing it, but called the scene a cool one.
It fits a wider pattern. During timeouts, Levi is known to kneel in front of his net, bow his head and use breathing techniques to reset.
Crowe also has some hockey credibility of his own. He headlined the 1999 hockey film Mystery, Alaska, so a nod to a goalie borrowing from his Oscar-winning role feels natural.
A Record Start in Edmonton
Levi is now 9-1-0 through his first 10 games with the Oilers, the best 10-game start in franchise history.
Edmonton acquired the 24-year-old from the Buffalo Sabres on July 1, along with a 2028 seventh-round pick, for a 2028 third-round pick, and he has made the most of the opportunity.
The Oilers entered the season with questions in goal, and Levi has answered many of them early. A Gladiator salute is just the latest bonus for a goalie who keeps finding ways to stand out. Fans in Edmonton now have Hollywood backing too.
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