Before the start of the daily grind, there’s nothing quite like a cup of coffee to get the day started.

Nobody knows that better than defenceman Connor Carrick of the New Jersey Devils, who can be found putting his master roaster skills to the test, whether it’s brewing up some brilliant concoctions or checking out the local coffee shop scene when he’s on the road.

In honour of International Coffee Day, Carrick sat down for a coffee with NHLPA.com, and served up his Top 5 tips for making the perfect cup. 

Carrick's top coffee tips

1. No has beans

“No. 1, you definitely have to start with fresh beans. It’s always a fun thing for me to purchase. It’s probably my favourite thing to buy. In general, I’ll go to any local shop when I’m on the road, or around our house in Chicago – I also do get quite a bit of coffee beans sent to me, which is awesome to receive those care packages – and start off by getting fresh beans.”

2. Bean there, done that

“My preferred method is to use a Chemex. I just think it creates a lower acidity and a more nuanced cup of coffee.”

3. Tip the scales in your flavour

“I use a proper ratio. I use a scale to weigh out how many grams of coffee ground I’m putting in my Chemex, and how much water I’m using. That’s a good one to remember.”   

4. Warming up

“Another bit of advice I’d give is to use water that is not too hot, so it doesn’t burn the coffee… that is possible to do. Mine is usually 93 to 94 degrees Celsius. I have an electric kettle that does that.”

5. Savour time

“Definitely make sure you enjoy it. Have someone to have coffee with, try and make it a point to do that. If you don’t have someone you know or love to share that time with, slow down and taste it. Slamming coffees and rushing, chances are you’re going to drink it while it’s too hot and burn yourself, so you won’t taste the rest of it any way. Just enjoy it.”