Connor McDavid, the celebrated three-time Hart Trophy winner, is lending his face – and a touch of hockey humor – to a vital message. He’s starring in a new campaign focused on responsible gaming, a subject often overshadowed by the excitement of the sport.
The commercial, cleverly titled “Mullet Over” after the iconic hockey hairstyle, features McDavid alongside former NHL player and actor Terry Ryan. It’s a lighthearted approach to a serious topic, aiming to resonate with fans while subtly promoting mindful betting habits.
At the heart of the campaign lies a commitment to providing accessible tools for players. These include features allowing users to set time and spending limits, empowering them to stay in control of their experience.
McDavid himself emphasized the importance of this message, stating the commercial was a “fun opportunity to combine hockey humor with a meaningful message.” He believes BetMGM’s resources are crucial for customers seeking to maintain a healthy relationship with gaming.
This isn’t a new endeavor for McDavid; he previously appeared in a responsible gambling ad titled “Carried Away” in 2024. That initial campaign demonstrably impacted player behavior, sparking a significant increase in the utilization of responsible gaming tools.
The results speak for themselves. Following the first campaign, BetMGM reported a remarkable 38% year-over-year increase in Ontario players utilizing deposit limits. This feature restricts the amount of money a player can add to their account within a specified period.
Even more striking was a 55% surge in Ontario players employing stake limits, which cap the amount wagered on individual bets. These numbers highlight a tangible shift towards more conscious and controlled gaming practices.
Beyond the in-app tools, BetMGM integrates the GameSense program across its platforms and within MGM Resorts properties. GameSense provides practical advice and encourages proactive, transparent engagement with responsible play, fostering a culture of awareness.
Richard Taylor, BetMGM’s Director of Responsible Gambling, explained the campaign’s intent: to deliver a memorable message in an entertaining way. The goal is to encourage players to “mull it over” before placing a bet, promoting thoughtful decision-making.
