ATD 2024 Bio Thread

[ResilientBeast]

Post them below

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[Voight]

Ryan Getzlaf


Awards and Achievements:
Stanley Cup 2007
NHL Second All Star Team 2014
Hart Trophy Finalist 2014

All-Star voting - 2nd(2014), 4th(2009), 3rd(2015), 6th(2013), 7th(2008), 7th(2011)

Offensive Accomplishments:
Points - 2nd(2014), 6th(2009), 10th(2013)
Assists- 3rd(2009), 3rd(2017), 4th(2011), 5th(2014), 7th(2008), 7th(2016), 8th(2013)

Playoff Points - 5th(2007), 5th(2017), 6th(2009), 6th(2015), 10th(2014)

5-Year Peak: 2010-2015
9th in Points, 90% of 1st place Claude Giroux
5th in Assists, 88% of 1st place Henrik Sedin

10-Year Peak: 2007-2017
8th in Points, 85% of 1st place Alex Ovechkin
4th in Assists, 93% of 1st place Joe Thornton​

 

[ImporterExporter]

Bernie Morris, RW/C

(AS info/stats courtesy of 2020 bio by @Dreakmur )

Awards and Achievements:
Stanley Cup Champion (1917)

5 x PCHA First Team All-Star (1916, 1917, 1918, 1919, 1922)
2 x PCHA Second Team All-Star (1921, 1923)

C/RW - 1916
C - 1917, 1919
RW - 1922
LW - 1921
Spare - 1918

Newspaper MVP vote - 3rd(1917)

Offensive Accomplishments:
PCHA Points - 1st(1917), 2nd(1916), 2nd(1918), 2nd(1919), 4th(1922), 6th(1921), 6th(1923)
PCHA Goals - 1st(1916), 2nd(1917), 2nd(1918), 2nd(1919), 4th(1923), 5th(1922), 9th(1921)
PCHA Assists - 1st(1918), 2nd(1917), 2nd(1921), 2nd(1922), 3rd(1919), 5th(1916)

WCHL Points - 7th(1924)
WCHL Goals - 6th(1924)
WCHL Assists - 9th(1924)

Consolidated Scoring:
Points - 2nd(1919), 3rd(1916), 3rd(1917), 3rd(1918), 10th(1922), 12th(1921), 16th(1923)
Goals - 1st(1916), 2nd(1919), 4th(1917), 4th(1918)
Assists - 1st(1918), 3rd(1921), 4th(1919), 5th(1922), 8th(1916), 8th(1917)

Play-off Points - 1st(1917), 2nd(1924)

Scoring Percentages:
Consolidated Points - 109(1919), 96(1918), 91(1916), 90(1917), 76(1922), 74(1921), 65

Best 6 Seasons: 536
​

Seventies' VsX equivalents for current forwards:
player	3y	5y	7y	10y
Dye	103	97	89	66
Foyston	89	83	76	67
Pitre	97	87	78	70
Hay	84	79	74	67
Noble	74	71	67	59
Walker	69	61	57	52
Dunderdale	94	85	78	71
Morris	94	89	82	67

Morris peaked in the mid 90's and joined Babe Dye as the only players to hold a 7 year average of >80. But unlike Dye, Morris had a much more rounded game as you will see in the sources below.



Scouting reports, quotes, praise for Morris's all-around game (in progress, much more to be added)



29 Nov, 1915 - Seattle Daily Times

-Scouting report noted the newcomer Morris as "fast, clever stickhandler, that keeps opposing defenses guessing"

05 Dec, 1915 - Seattle Daily Times

-Very rarely do you find a detailed description of face off ability from this era. Morris is noted "as a past master in this branch of the game."

13 Feb, 1916 - Seattle Daily Times

-Morris toughness noted.

19 Feb, 1916 - Vancouver Sun

-toughness noted as well as being star of game.

28 Feb, 1916 - The Victoria Daily Times

-Morris called "speedy right wing"
-Morris is "the real sensation of the league" and already "popular choice among sports writers for a position on the coast all start team"

15 Dec, 1916 - Seattle Daily times

-Morris noted as "Seatle's aggressive center ice forward"
-The great scoring Morris is crowding Cyclone Taylor in scoring race.

13 Jan, 1917 - Vancouver Sun

-Morris had a God mode and this vs a great Vancouver team.

07 Feb, 1917 - The Province

-toughness again displayed in star showing with bum leg.

22 Feb, 1917 - The Edmonton Bulletin

-Morris, along with Lester Patrick and Gordon Roberts are the only 3 unanimous choices for Writers Picks for PCHA postseason AS team.

Morris got 2 votes at center, 1 vote and rover and 1 at right wing.

21 Mar. 1917 - The Province

-SCF vs Montreal, toughness highlighted in a series Morris absolutely dominated. 4 game series win for Seattle. 14 goals and 2 assists.

24 Mar, 1917 - The Province

-SCF Seattle clinches the title with Morris yet again dominate.

-"Morris scored six of his team's goals and he skated and checked and shot the puck as few hockey players in the game ever have been able to do."

24 Mar, 1917 - The Gazette (Montreal paper)

SCF game, "Foyston, Morris, Wilson and Walker checked back hard and often, all using the hook check to the great consternation of the Canadiens."

27 Mar, 1917 - Saskatoon Daily Star

-Morris star of the Cup clinching win for Seattle, noted as "not only scored six goals but he showed all around ability tonight. He jockeyed the Canadiens defense out of line on numerous occasions."

7 Apr, 1917 - San Francisco Examiner

-Apparently "Bernie Morris, the fastest hockey star ever on blades, and practically won the a world's championship when he beat Les Canadeins single-handed at Seattle two weeks ago, has been purchased by Les Canadiens for $5000."

-Not sure what happened as Morris never played a game for Montreal but thought this was an interesting find.

31 Jan, 1918 - The Victoria Daily Times

-Morris carried off lion's share of honors as game's star.
-Noted "was there at the checking game as well, and his work aided the home team materially."

Feb 21, 1918 - Seattle Daily Times

-Morris and Roberts played fine defensive hockey. Noted to play a very strong fore-checking game that saw Portland have trouble getting out of their own zone.

3 Mar, 1918 - Seattle Daily Times

-Morris versatility noted.

02 Jan, 1919 - Seattle Daily Times

-Jack Walker's hook check catching on with teammates. Morris and Foyston getting in good licks.

05 Jan, 1919 - Seattle Daily Times

-More talk about Walker's hook checking catching on with the rest of the team.

16 Jan, 1919 - Seattle Daily Times

-Post game notes how much attention is being paid to Morris by opposing teams, including up to "half their team". The Mets consistent speed is highlighted as well.

26 Jan. 1919 - The Vancouver Sun

-Scouting report talks about his shooting style.

23 Mar. 1919 - Seattle Daily Times

-Morris not playing due to being arrested on draft evasion charges. His absence is a huge loss for Seattle in the SCF.

-"Bernie Morris was missed last night at center more than ever. Jack Walker held down the position very creditably and his hook check was as bothersome as usual but he ewas outclassed by Lalone where Bernie would have filled the bill."

22 Mar, 1920 - Ottawa Citizen

-Out of town paper, major hockey city (Ottawa) calls Morris one of the greatest center ice players in game.
-Noted as "short, rugged looking athlete"
-Noted as "wonderful shot and sensational backchecker"
-Was idol of Seattle fans and regarded as "one of most dangerous forwards hockey has ever produced"

16 Dec, 1920 - The Province

-Stars to watch in Vancouver vs Mets. Mackay vs Morris.

19 Dec, 1920 - Seattle Daily Times

-Morris, along with Foyston noted as being one of the two scoring stars for the Mets.
-Morris ranks high for cleverness and higher still as a goal scorer.
-Both hound the puck as only men with hockey instinct will

23 Deb, 1920 - The Victoria Daily Times

-Neat overview of a coaching change tactically. Morris moved to C for the faceoff but resumes playing at RW once the puck is dropped, with Foyston sliding to C. Seemed to work well for Seattle.

20 Jan, 1921 - Seattle Daily Times

-Post game notes Morris "back checked with a vim, his poke checking and hook checking stopping numerous Victoria rushes while he kept his opponents out of the play much of the time."

02 Feb, 1921 - Seattle Daily Times

-More backchecking

24 Feb, 1921 - Seattle Union Record

-Against doctors orders due to illness, Morris plays anyway.

06 Dec, 1921 - Calgary Herald

-In post game (Mets lost 2-1 to Millionaires) write up Morris "played a hard game and back checked stiffly."



01 Feb, 1922 - The Victoria Daily Times

-"Bernie Morris has shown remarkable form in the past week, and if Bernie can continue at this pace he will make our forward line that much stronger. Morris is checking back harder than I've ever seen him"



03 Feb, 1922 - Seattle Daily Times

-Post game notes Morris' "play on right wing was probably the best exhibition of playing that position that a Seattle right wing man has ever put up.....in Wednesday's game he had Dunderdale so completely shut out that the Victoria player hardly figured in the game."

09 Feb, 1922 - Seattle Daily Times

- Post game notes Morris playing "wonderful all-around game. He was always in the right place, back checking and covering his man on the return, like a youngster with the ambition of a race horse."

13 Feb, 1922 - The Vancouver Sun

-Out of town paper notes Morris is THE particular player Vancouver will be focused on stopping.

16 Feb, 1922 - Seattle Daily Times

-Morris post game noted as "best right wing in hockey"
-"Doing everything that the most particular critic could ask of a man"
-"Backbone of Seattle attack"
-"Wonder on defense, perfecting a swinging check with a stiff grip on his stick that is a beauty."
-"Time after time he batted the puck away from the Victoria team"

16 Feb, 1922 - The Victoria Daily Times

-Morris running wild, star of the game

04 Dec, 1922 - Seattle Union Record

19 Oct, 1923 - Calgary Herald

-Morris noted as versatilte, bouncing between C and RW.
-Noted as "extremely hard backcheker"
-Most dangerous shot
-Even-tempered player who is "pretty skater but excels in stickhandling"

06 Dec, 1923 - Seattle Star

-Morris played a "beautiful game for the invaders, backchecking like a demon."

07 Deb, 1923 - The Victoria Daily Times

-Noted star RW in 1922.

26 Deb, 1923 - Saskatoon Daily Star

-Morris checked Newsy Lalonde down at center ice, leading to a subsequent goal.

17 Jan, 1924: Calgary Albertan

-Clever and heady game w/stiff body checking

19 Feb, 1924: The Calgary Albertan

-In post game report "Wilson, Morris, and Anderson all skated and backchecked in the approved Bengal (playing for Calgary at the time) manner."



08 Mar, 1924 - Calgary Herald

-SCF, Morris (along with Oliver) noted as "raising havoc with their incessant harrasing of the Cap forwards who couldn't shake the checks."

-Morris sharpshooting noted but bulk of his (and Oliver's) excellent style was "shown in backchecking and they did that to a nicety."

17 Mar, 1924 - Calgary Herald

-Morris and Cully Wilson noted to be "doing bulk of the checking."

 

[MVP of West Hollywd]

My 4th defenseman Vladimir Lutchenko

Lutchenko, alongside Valeri Vasiliev, was one of the strongest defensemen in Soviet hockey in the 1970s. Possessing good all-around ability, Lutchenko was equally adept in the offensive and defensive zones. He had a strong slapshot from the point, and played a physical, yet clean game in his own end.

During his career, Lutchenko was named a Soviet First Team All Star on seven occasions. However, he never received the honor of being on a World Championships All Star team or being named the Best Defenseman in the World Championships.

The 5 Greatest Defenders of Communism - The Hockey Writers Latest News, Analysis & More

Soviet hockey records and statistics grow more complete by the day, and offer great insight about an otherwise lost generation of hockey stars.

thehockeywriters.com

Vladimir Lutchenko trailed only Liapkin as the highest scoring defenseman on the team. While Liapkin is remembered more for giving up the puck to create the famous Paul Henderson goal, Lutchenko is remembered as an incredible defender in the series.

"Vladimir Lutchenko played very well defensively," said Russian sports writer Vladimir Dvortsov. "He showed that even against the Canadians a defenseman can use clean bodychecks effectively. He played the real style of Soviet hockey - smart, elegant and clean."

Summit Series Heroes: Vladimir Lutchenko

Vladimir Lutchenko trailed only Liapkin as the highest scoring defenseman on the team. While Liapkin is remembered more for giving up the p...

www.greatesthockeylegends.com

Lutchenko is one of those guys who’s famous locally and unknown everywhere else. And his award case tells the same story: seven USSR all-star teams, none internationally – typical for a primarily defensive player. The heir to Ragulin, Lutchenko was big, strong and defensively solid.

But unlike Ragulin, he was a very good skater. He used his speed mostly in the interest of preventing goals, with Soviet hockey historian Arthur Chidlovski calling him “one of the best defensive players in the history of Soviet hockey.” In the 1972 Summit Series, Lutchenko was the USSR’s most successful defenseman, cleanly checking Canadian forwards regularly.

https://thehockeynews.com/news/top-10-international-hockey-defensemen

I was choosing between him and Ragulin for this spot. It sounds like Ragulin is more dominant defensively while Lutchenko is better on offense than him while still good on D.

 

[ResilientBeast]

Nels Stewart, C/LW
​

I set out to rebuild this bio to characterize Nels Stewart differently, and that perhaps his drop in "energy" level could be attributed to a poor coaching fit and motivation rather than just him having a somewhat lazy vibe after his first couple of seasons. Some background information.

Nels's first coach with the Maroons was the fiery Eddie Gerard, who successfully led them to the Stanley Cup in 1926 with Stewart starring in his rookie season. Sadly newspapers from this era (at least here in Canada aren't full of tabloid level rumor mongering about the feeling between a coach and his players.

Gerard started Nels at center before having him move onto D for the finals, the following season Nels stays at center as the Maroons failed to repeat. In 1927-28 Eddie Gerard moves Nels to the LW in late December of this season. (approximately). The team at this point is 7-6-2, so barely above .500, they end the season at 24-16-6 making it all the way to cup finals losing to Rangers. The move to LW clearly benefited the team.

Additionally looking at it statistically through the first chunk of the season Nels stat line (through 15 games):
11 Goals - 1 Assist

After the move over to LW he manages to add (Game 16-44)
16 Goals - 6 Assists

The change in his points per game is negligible between the two positions this season.

The next season Gerard's last as coach until 1932, Stewart remains at LW. Dunc Munro takes over as player coach over the next two seasons and unites the famed S-Line and Stewart has his Hart winning season as the centerpiece in 1929-30. Despite his Hart Trophy winning season the Maroons manage to finish first in the Canadian Division but it's not like they were particularly dominant. Due to the stupid playoff format of the era they are forced to play the the 38-5-1 Bruins and flame out of the playoffs.

1931-32 the team has a pretty poor start to the season before Munro is eventually fired and replaced by Georges Boucher. The team does not improve despite the change in coach.

Stewart moves onto the Bruins and they immediately improve from 4th in the division to first combining the Barry and Clapper up front with Nels.

Why does this all matter? The seasons Stewart's Maroons performed the best were with a tough fiery disciplinarian in Eddie Gerard behind the bench making it to two cup finals winning one. The switch to Dunc Munro and the creation of the S-Line managed to help boost Nels's counting stats but it doesn't seem like that in itself benefit the teams he was on all that much. Another tough coach in Art Ross got good performances out of him and the team had some success (before choking in the playoffs).

It turns out that I couldn't find much new information we didn't already have on this. But I think it's no unreasonable to say the best the Maroons as a team performed was when Nels wasn't playing center.

Awards and Achievements
2 x Hart Trophy Winner(1926, 1930)
1 x Stanley Cup Champion(1926)
1 x Retro Conn Smythe Winner(1926)
1 x Retro Art Ross Winner(1926)
2 x Retro Maurice Richard Trophy Winner(1926, 1937)

Scoring
Ranking Finishes:
Goals: 1st(1926), 1st(1937), 2nd(1929), 3rd(1928), 3rd(1934), 4th(1930), 4th(1931),5th(1935), 7th(1932), 8th(1927), 8th(1938), 9th(1933), 9th(1939), 15th(1936),

Assists: 6th(1926), 8th(1928), 11th(1931), 12th(1934), 14th(1928), 14th(1933), 18th(1939), 19th(1930), 20th(1935), 22nd(1936), T-25th(1938),

Points: 1st(1926), 2nd(1929), 4th(1934), 5th(1928), 6th(1930), 7th(1931), 8th(1937), 9th(1933), 10th(1935), 10th(1938), 15th(1939(, 17th(1932), 17th(1936), 18th(1927)

Early career positional breakdown (Unless explicitly stated otherwise all information is from the Globe and Mail and dates refer to publication date and not the game)

1925-26 Season

Date	Nels' Position	Regular Linemates	Notes
26-Jan-26	C	Siebert (LW) + Broadbent (RW)
01-Feb-26	C	Siebert (LW) + Broadbent (RW)
03-Feb-26	C	Siebert (LW) + Broadbent (RW)
10-Feb-26	C	Siebert (LW) + Broadbent (RW)
24-Feb-26	C	Siebert (LW) + Broadbent (RW)
01-Mar-26	C	Siebert (LW) + Broadbent (RW)
03-Mar-26	C	Broadbent (RW)
08-Mar-26	C	Siebert (LW) + Broadbent (RW)
12-Mar-26	C	Siebert (LW) + Broadbent (RW)
17-Mar-26	C	Siebert (LW) + Broadbent (RW)
18-Mar-26	C	Siebert (LW) + Broadbent (RW)
24-Mar-26	D	Noble (D)	Playoff Game
29-Mar-26	D/C	Noble (D)	NHL Finals
31-Mar-26	D	Noble (D)	Cup Finals
02-Apr-26	D	Noble (D)	Cup Finals
05-Apr-26	D	Noble (D)	Cup Finals

[TBODY][/TBODY]

Quotes from this season

Mar2 22 1926 Montreal Gazette: Stewart, shifted to D in 2nd period, cited for strong pokechecking. FIRST ROUND OF PLAYOFFS
The Montreal Gazette - Google News Archive Search
Holway's defense was not to strong in the opening period, so manager Eddie Gerard shifted Nelson Stewart to Dunc Monro's defensive post and he remained there until the end of the game. Stewart's poke checking stood out.


Mar 31 1926 Montreal Gazette: SCF Game 1, Stewart is a monster offensively, defensively, quoted as playing a fast game, etc
The Montreal Gazette - Google News Archive Search
"Stewart fairly towered over the pother players on the ice, and he was alone worth the victory which the local team scored in the game under eastern rules. The Victoria defensive was baffled by the rangy Maroon star. His crafty style of play was something new to them, and they failed to solve his tactics. This player, recently judged the most useful man to his club in the NHL accounted for two goals, the first and last of the game, and both tallies were out of the ordinary. The first, which came after two minutes of play in the initial period was a novel counter, the like of which is seldom witnessed in hockey. Stewart cleared a Victoria rush from close to Benedict's cage. He rushed through the Victoria players at mid ice with long swerving strokes and when he reached the defense, poked the puck through Loughlin. Stewart attempted to round the Victoria captain and defenseman but was spilled face down and full length on the ice....."

"Stewart's second goal came in from the third period less than four minutes from the end of the game. He cleared a rush by Frederickson and started for the Victoria end. He tore down the right wing and Babe Siebert flashed up on the left. At the defense Stewart gave Siebert the puck. The hero of Montreal's league title victory rushed in until almost even with the Victoria net. Stewart was following in fast on the cage and Siebert whipped him a pass. The Maroon star took it in full flight and did not give Holmes a chance to act against the flip from 2 feet out. It was a beautiful play."

"Seibert, Stewart and Broadbent rushed in turn. Then Stewart came down in a tricky rush through center. He evaded the Victoria outer guard, and then slipped the puck past Loughlin. He attempted to recover the disc, but fell. While sliding along the ice, face down, Stewart reached out with his stick, and pushed the puck behind Holmes, who had rushed out from his net to clear. The trick, a novel one, was done in two minutes."
"Frederickson made gallant efforts to get through the Maroon defense. He hit them from every angle and at every pace but Noble and Stewart kept him out. Benedict was having a soft time in the Maroon net."

"Stewart intercepted Fraser's pass to Hart and a dangerous rush by the westerners was wrecked. Stewart and Phillips took play to Holmes net, where they were joined by Dinsmore. All three started to snipe at the Victoria goalie but were thwarted by the brilliant play of Holmes."

"One of the smartest plays of the night brought a third goal Montreal about five minutes before the end of the game. Stewart cleared when Frederickson fell in rushing. The Maroon start tore down right wing. He gave Siebert a pass. The latter rushed in and whipped the puck back to Stewart at the goal mouth. Traveling like lightning Stewart gave Holmes no chance to save. The time was 16:10."


Apr 2 1926 Montreal Gazette: SCF Game 2, Stewart again dominates up and down the ice. But he is playing as a defensemen here.
The Montreal Gazette - Google News Archive Search
"The big Maroon start is still an enigma to the Cougars. He has tricked them with such a variety of stunts that they hardly know what to expect. In the first game he slipped the puck through the Vic defense and rounded them to score the first goal while prone on the ice. Last night he rushed to the defense, but instead of around, he crashed between them. Still half off balance from the impact, Stewart kept to his purpose and blazed the puck past Holmes for goal number one."

"Stewart, teaming with Noble, was strong defensively and the biggest threat up forward."


Apr 7 1926: Montreal Gazette: Stewart has another monster game clinching the Cup for the Maroons. Again, Stewart is paired with Reg Noble on D. Cited for stealing the puck from Frank Foyston which directly led to a goal.


1926-27 Season

Date	Nels' Position	Regular Linemates	Notes
11-Nov-26	C	Siebert (LW) + Broadbent (RW)
17-Nov-26	C	Siebert (LW) + Broadbent (RW)
19-Nov-26	C	Siebert (LW) + Broadbent (RW)
24-Nov-26	C	Siebert (LW) + Broadbent (RW)
26-Nov-26	C	Siebert (LW) + Broadbent (RW)
29-Nov-26	C	Siebert (LW) + Broadbent (RW)
01-Dec-26	C	Siebert (LW) + Broadbent (RW)
15-Dec-26	C	Siebert (LW) + Broadbent (RW)
24-Dec-26	C	Siebert (LW) + Broadbent (RW)
07-Jan-27	C	Siebert (LW) + Broadbent (RW)
12-Jan-27	C	Siebert (LW) + Broadbent (RW)
17-Jan-27	Sub	Subs
19-Jan-27	C	Siebert (LW) + Broadbent (RW)
21-Jan-27	C	Siebert (LW) + Broadbent (RW)
24-Jan-27	C	Siebert (LW) + Broadbent (RW)
26-Jan-27	C	Broadbent (RW) + Oatman (LW?)
28-Jan-27	C	Siebert (LW) + Broadbent (RW)
04-Feb-27	C	Siebert (LW) + Broadbent (RW)
09-Feb-27	C	Siebert (LW) + Broadbent (RW)
16-Feb-27	C	Siebert (LW) + Broadbent (RW)
21-Feb-27	C	Siebert (LW) + Broadbent (RW)
25-Feb-27	C	Siebert (LW) + Broadbent (RW)
09-Mar-27	C	Siebert (LW) + Broadbent (RW)
01-Apr-27	C	Siebert (LW) + Broadbent (RW)	Playoff Game

[TBODY][/TBODY]
1927-28 Season

Date	Nels' Position	Regular Linemates	Notes
16-Nov-27	C	Siebert (LW)	Hooley isn’t listed
18-Nov-27	C	Siebert (LW)	Hooley isn’t listed
21-Nov-27	C	Siebert (LW)	Hooley isn’t listed
23-Nov-27	LW	Smith (c)	Hooley appears
28-Nov-27	C + W (?)	Stewart (?)	Hooley isn’t listed
30-Nov-27	C	Siebert (LW)	Hooley isn’t listed
02-Dec-27	Hooley noted as being out for a while
05-Dec-27	Didn't play
12-Dec-27	Didn't play
16-Dec-27	C	Smith (W) + Siebert (W)
19-Dec-27	C	Siebert (LW)	Hooley as a sub
26-Dec-27	C	Smith (W) + Siebert (W)
29-Dec-27	LW	Oatman (LW) + Smith (C)
30-Dec-27	C	Oatman (LW?) + Smith (RW)
02-Jan-28	C	Oatman (LW?) + Smith (RW)
06-Jan-28	Sub	Smith (C)
16-Jan-28	LW	Smith (C) + Ward (W)
18-Jan-28	LW	Smith (C) + Ward (W)
23-Jan-28	LW	Smith (C) + Ward (W)
27-Jan-28	LW	Smith (C) + Ward (W)
01-Feb-28	LW	Smith (C) + Ward (W)
06-Feb-28	LW	Smith (C) + Ward (W)
08-Feb-28	LW	Smith (C) + Ward (W)
20-Feb-28	LW	Smith (C) + Ward (W)
22-Feb-28	LW	Smith (C) + Ward (W)
05-Mar-28	LW	Smith (C) + Ward (W)
09-Mar-28	LW	Smith (C) + Ward (W)
12-Mar-28	LW	Smith (C) + Ward (W)
14-Mar-28	LW	Smith (C) + Ward (W)
19-Mar-28	LW	Smith (C) + Ward (W)
26-Mar-28	LW	Smith (C) + Ward (W)
28-Mar-28	LW	Smith (C) + Ward (W)	NHL Playoffs
30-Mar-28	LW	Smith (C) + Ward (W)	NHL Playoffs
02-Apr-28	LW	Smith (C) + Ward (W)	NHL Playoffs
03-Apr-28	LW	Smith (C) + Ward (W)	NHL Playoffs
06-Apr-28	No lineup	Cup Finals
09-Apr-28	LW	Smith (C) + Ward (W)	Cup Finals + Lester in net
11-Apr-28	LW	Smith (C) + Ward (W)	Cup Finals
16-Apr-28	LW	Smith (C) + Ward (W)

[TBODY][/TBODY]

1928-29 Season

16-Nov-28	LW	Smith (C) + Ward (W)
19-Nov-28	LW	Smith (C) + Ward (W)
23-Nov-28	LW	Smith (C) + Ward (W)
26-Nov-28	LW	Ward (W)	Hooley absent
28-Nov-28	LW	Smith (C) + Ward (W)
30-Nov-28	RW	Smith (C) + Ward (LW)	RW weird
03-Dec-28	LW	Smith (C) + Ward (W)
07-Dec-28	LW	Smith (C) + Ward (W)
12-Dec-28	LW	Smith (C) + Ward (W)
14-Dec-28	LW	Smith (C) + Ward (W)
17-Dec-28	LW	Smith (C) + Ward (W)
19-Dec-28	LW	Smith (C) + Ward (RW)
21-Dec-28	LW	Smith (C) + Ward (W)
26-Dec-28	LW	Smith (C) + Ward (RW)
04-Jan-29	LW	Smith (C) + Ward (W)
09-Jan-29	LW	Smith (C) + Ward (W)
14-Jan-29	LW	Smith (C) + Ward (W)
18-Jan-29	LW	Smith (C) + Ward (W)
21-Jan-29	LW	Smith (C) + Ward (RW)
25-Jan-29	C	Siebert (LW) + Ward (RW)	Hooley on D
28-Jan-29	C	Siebert (LW) + Ward (RW)	Hooley on D
01-Feb-29	C	Siebert (LW) + Ward (RW)	Hooley on D
06-Feb-29	C	Siebert (LW) + Ward (RW)	Hooley on D
11-Feb-29	C	Siebert (LW) + Ward (RW)	Hooley on D
13-Feb-29	C	Siebert (LW) + Ward (RW)	Hooley on D
15-Feb-29	C	Siebert (LW) + Ward (RW)	Hooley on D
18-Feb-29	C	Siebert (LW) + Ward (RW)	Hooley on D
20-Feb-29	C	Smith (C) + Ward (W)
25-Feb-29	LW	Ward (W)	Hooley absent
27-Feb-29	LW	Ward (W)	Hooley absent
01-Mar-29	LW	Ward (W)
11-Mar-29	LW	Smith (C) + Ward (RW)
15-Mar-29	LW	Smith (C) + Ward (RW)

[TBODY][/TBODY]

Quotes from this season

Feb 20 1929 Montreal Gazette: Stewart and Hooley Smith singled out for great poke checking efforts. Nels is still on the wing here.
The Montreal Gazette - Google News Archive Search
"Being out in front, the Maroons centered their efforts chiefly upon preserving their lead, which brought out some of the uncanniest poke checking ever seen here by Nels Stewart and Hooley Smith. The Americans drove down in three, four and finally five man attacks but nearly always great stick work by Smith and Stewart would sweep the puck away from them to pull their attempts to score up short. The crowd was almost delirious with excitement as the wonderful defensive tactics of the Montreal players baffled every effort t drive the disc into the net for the tying goal."

Nels Stewart, big Montreal Maroon left winger, has been a powerful factor in leading his club in (word cut out) rush from a lowly position to top most position in the National Hockey League race.- The Pittsburgh Press, Dec 7, 1928

Nels Stewart, Montreal Maroon Left Winger, is leading all scorers in either section of the National Hockey League...- The Border Cities Star, Dec 4, 1928

Stewart, high scoring left wing of the Montreal Maroons, is now the undisputed scoring leader of the Canadian section of the national hockey league- New York Times, Mar 12, 1929

Jan 23 1929 Montreal Gazette: Stewart singled out with 2 others for backing checking and poke checking brilliance. Stewart was on the LW in this game.
The Montreal Gazette - Google News Archive Search
"Stewart, Smith and Ward while working so dangerously on offensive also saw to it that there was no Couger retaliation. They back checked and poke checked so successfully that they had the Detroiters completely tied up. The Cougars couldn't move."


Stewart picked as the first team AS LW

A writer picks his all-star teams for the first half of the 1928-29 season picked Nels Stewart as the first AST LW. Here is what the writer said about him(credit to TDMM for the find):

"a big man, dangerously rough at times, a very hard man to check, and one of the most finished players around the goal. In one game at Montreal I saw Stewart back-check like a most enthusiastic rookie, but after his team had scored two goals, he assumed his careless manner, merely standing around until someone brought the puck up to him... must drive a manager frantic... but when bearing down, he is the best left wing in the game."​

1929-30 Season

15-Nov-29	C	S Line	The S-Line!!!
18-Nov-29	C	S Line
20-Nov-29	Sub	Hooley on D
25-Nov-29	C	S Line
29-Nov-29	Sub	S-Line are Subs
02-Dec-29	C	S Line
04-Dec-29	Sub	S-Line are Subs
06-Dec-29	C	S Line	S-Line are Subs
13-Dec-29	Sub
18-Dec-29	C	S Line
23-Dec-29	C	S Line
27-Dec-29	C	S Line
30-Dec-29	C	Siebert	Hooley Absent
02-Jan-30	C	Siebert	Hooley Absent
06-Jan-30	C	S Line
10-Jan-30	C	S Line
15-Jan-30	C	S Line
17-Jan-30	C	S Line
20-Jan-30	Sub	S-Line are Subs
24-Jan-30	C	S Line
27-Jan-30	C	S Line
31-Jan-30	C	S Line
03-Feb-30	Sub	S-Line are Subs
07-Feb-30	C	Smith	Siebert on D
10-Feb-30	C	S-Line
12-Feb-30	C	S-Line
14-Feb-30	C	S-Line
17-Feb-30	Sub	S-Line are Subs
19-Feb-30	C	S-Line
21-Feb-30	Sub	S-Line are Subs
26-Feb-30	C	S-Line
05-Mar-30	C	S-Line
07-Mar-30	C	S-Line
10-Mar-30	C	Smith
17-Mar-30	C	Smith
21-Mar-30	C	S-Line	Playoffs
26-Mar-30	C	Northcott + Smith	Playoffs
28-Mar-30	C	Northcott + Smith	Playoffs

 

[ImporterExporter]

George "Punch" Imlach



*A LOT more to come....can't post as many pictures as you could in better times here...will be typing up much more.....

The Ottawa Journal​

Ottawa, Ontario, Canada · Monday, February 25, 1952

Great piece by Bill Westwick that highlights Imlach and Jean Beliveau.

The Montreal Star​

Montreal, Quebec, Canada · Monday, March 03, 1952

Montreal Star piece speaking to Imlach's great handling of Beliveau.

The Ottawa Citizen​

Ottawa, Ontario, Canada · Monday, December 15, 1952

Imlach talking about his young star, Jean Beliveau.

The Hamilton Spectator​

Hamilton, Ontario, Canada · Friday, December 26, 1952

The Gazette​

Montreal, Quebec, Canada · Thursday, February 05, 1953

Imlach won Coach of the Year (QSHL) in 1952, leading the Quebec Aces (and Jean Beliveau) to the Alexander Cup.

The Ottawa Journal​

Ottawa, Ontario, Canada · Wednesday, March 13, 1957

The Ottawa Journal​

Ottawa, Ontario, Canada · Friday, April 26, 1957

The Morning Union​

Springfield, Massachusetts · Sunday, August 18, 1957

“During his six years as head of the Aces the club won three league titles and two Dominion championships, the Alexander and the Duke of Edinburgh trophies.”

The Republican​

Springfield, Massachusetts · Friday, August 30, 1957

"Imlach is one of the best executives in hockey. He is probably ahead of most of them in the NHL too."
-Lynn Patrick

The Morning Union​

Springfield, Massachusetts · Tuesday, September 24, 1957

"Imlach-rated by many hockey men as one of the best executives in the game."
-Garry Brown

The Leader-Post​

Regina, Saskatchewan, Canada · Friday, October 25, 1957

The Morning Union​

Springfield, Massachusetts · Wednesday, November 13, 1957

The Morning Union​

Springfield, Massachusetts · Friday, April 04, 1958

The Montreal Star​

Montreal, Quebec, Canada · Saturday, July 12, 1958

-Harold Atkins of Montreal Star notes Imlach is "highly regarded in hockey ranks as a sage fellow when it comes to talent."

The Toronto Star​

Toronto, Ontario, Canada · Thursday, August 28, 1958

The Toronto Star​

Toronto, Ontario, Canada · Tuesday, September 16, 1958

The Toronto Star​

Toronto, Ontario, Canada · Tuesday, December 02, 1958

Numerous players talk about Imlach's abtilies and style

The Toronto Star​

Toronto, Ontario, Canada · Monday, December 08, 1958

The Expositor​

Brantford, Ontario, Canada · Wednesday, December 10, 1958

The Toronto Star​

Toronto, Ontario, Canada · Saturday, December 13, 1958

The Toronto Star​

Toronto, Ontario, Canada · Wednesday, December 31, 1958

Star Weekly​

Toronto, Ontario, Canada · Saturday, January 17, 1959

The Toronto Star​

Toronto, Ontario, Canada · Monday, March 23, 1959

The Ottawa Journal​

Ottawa, Ontario, Canada · Tuesday, March 24, 1959

The Morning Union​

Springfield, Massachusetts · Sunday, April 12, 1959

Walter Graham of the Morning Union says Imlach is "the man who rates top consideration as the hockey coach of the year."

The Kingston Whig-Standard​

Kingston, Ontario, Canada · Saturday, April 18, 1959

Great piece by W.R. Wheatley highlighting Imlach's usage of game tape to study his team's mistakes, which he relayed to players. Also caught a goal that seemingly wasn't counted.

The Ottawa Citizen​

Ottawa, Ontario, Canada · Saturday, April 18, 1959

The Hamilton Spectator​

Hamilton, Ontario, Canada · Saturday, February 06, 1960

Sports Editor Bob Hanley sheds light on Imlach's ability to inspire.

The Ottawa Journal​

Ottawa, Ontario, Canada · Tuesday, April 12, 1960​

Imlach is 2nd Team Coach of the year for The Hockey News

The Montreal Star​

Montreal, Quebec, Canada · Thursday, January 12, 1961

Baz O'Meara says that "Toe Blake and Punch Imlach are now acknowledged as the two masters of their profession."

Niagara Falls Review​

Niagara Falls, Ontario, Canada · Thursday, February 02, 1961

St. Paul Recorder​

Minneapolis, Minnesota · Friday, February 17, 1961

One of the better finds so far. NHL's first African American player speaks about the encouragement he got from Imlach w/the Quebec Aces.

"Starting his professional hockey career with Quebec City of Quebec League in 1956-57' O'Ree, who hails from Frederick, New Brunswick, Canada, told of early encouragement he got from the Quebec coach, Punch Imlach.

"Punch Imlach was coaching the team at the time and I'll always remember the advice he gave me. Punch told me that no matter what abuses I had to take, to work hard and I'd make the NHL because I had the ability."
-Willie O'Ree

The Morning Union​

Springfield, Massachusetts · Sunday, March 05, 1961

Walter Graham cements the bond between Imlach and Clancy. Clancy seemingly had the utmost respect for Punch.

The Toronto Star​

Toronto, Ontario, Canada · Tuesday, March 07, 1961
Imlach cited as resting Kelly to keep him fresh as well as giving most of the team off practice late in the year.

The Toronto Star​

Toronto, Ontario, Canada · Friday, March 10, 1961

Imlach practice report

The Republican​

Springfield, Massachusetts · Thursday, March 16, 1961

Sam Pompei asserts Imlach having a path to the HOF in 1961

The Toronto Star​

Toronto, Ontario, Canada · Friday, March 24, 1961

Imlach practices weren't always a boot camp. Another example.

Leader-Tribune​

Marion, Indiana · Tuesday, March 28, 1961

Punch Imlach wins The Hockey News Coach of the Year award

The Expositor​

Brantford, Ontario, Canada · Tuesday, October 31, 1961

The Toronto Star​

Toronto, Ontario, Canada · Wednesday, December 13, 1961

Imlach highlighting the weakness of the Canadiens.

"It'll help them when Beliveau is back in top condition. But their problem will still be the same. They can't get the puck out of their own zone. Put pressure on them and they'll make a mistake. That never happened when they had Doug Harvey."

Calgary Herald​

Calgary, Alberta, Canada · Saturday, March 17, 1962

The Hamilton Spectator​

Hamilton, Ontario, Canada · Tuesday, March 27, 1962

Another instance of a light workout

The Toronto Star​

Toronto, Ontario, Canada · Monday, April 02, 1962

Imlach cited for pulling goalie and also swapping F's around in game.

The Kingston Whig-Standard​

Kingston, Ontario, Canada · Saturday, April 07, 1962

Billy Harris respects Imlach for being honest w/him about his playing time/possibility of being traded.

The Toronto Star​

Toronto, Ontario, Canada · Monday, April 09, 1962

The Gazette​

Montreal, Quebec, Canada · Wednesday, April 18, 1962

Dink Carroll with a really neat piece featuring Imlach speaking to his ability to find reclamation projects and turning them into productive players. He also highlights training methods and using a certain player in a specific role, in this piece, Eddie Shack.

And finally, it touches on his acquisition and usage of Red Kelly.

The Montreal Star​

Montreal, Quebec, Canada · Monday, April 23, 1962

Red Fisher with a great piece speaking about Imlach making lineup changes during SCF serires.

The Ottawa Citizen​

Ottawa, Ontario, Canada · Monday, April 23, 1962

"Meanwhile, this Leafian team was full value for their victory and a lot of the credit has to go to Imlach. He started almost from scratch, mixing extreme youth with a judicious supply of supposedly castoff veterans. It took four years but for Imlach and Leafs, it was a successful formula."
-Jack Kinsella (Ottawa Citizen writer)

The Vancouver Sun​

Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada · Monday, April 23, 1962

"It is not slicing the malarkey too thick to sugest that Punch Imlach has been very good for the Leafs. Their revival began the day he assumed command as manager-coach.
-Dick Beddoes (Vancouver Sun)

North Bay Nugget​

North Bay, Ontario, Canada · Monday, April 23, 1962

Imlach cited as keeping player injuries a secret during the playoffs (as you see today). Will have to investigate when this became standard practice.

The Windsor Star​

Windsor, Ontario, Canada · Monday, April 23, 1962
In the Cup winning game, Imlach shifted Nevin (Imlach explains reasoning) to the top line with Kelly and Mahovlich, Nevin scoring 1 of the 2 goals on the night. This was a line combination used the previous season.

The Standard​

St. Catharines, Ontario, Canada · Tuesday, April 24, 1962

“As far as I’m concerned, the first, and most important thing I had to do was get King back for next year. He’s a remarkable fellow and we’ve got to keep him in this business. We are partners and we’re not going to break up a winning combination.”
-Punch Imlach (on retaining King Clancy as his assistant)

"Clancy took on quite a share of Imlach’s load in the Stanley Cup march, first when Punch was hit by an ulcer and later when he got the flu."

The Toronto Star​

Toronto, Ontario, Canada · Tuesday, April 24, 1962

The Gazette​

Montreal, Quebec, Canada · Tuesday, April 24, 1962

Dink Carroll after Leafs won Cup in 62

The Vancouver Sun​

Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada · Thursday, September 27, 1962​

"defence is our strength. It's the difference between us and other teams in the NHL."
-Punch Imlach

Edmonton Journal​

Edmonton, Alberta, Canada · Tuesday, October 02, 1962

"Punch is a brainy-type hockey coach who doubles in brass as general manager of the Leafs. It is a point of debate as to whether Imlach is a better coach or a better manager. This is an argument I refuse to enjoin, because I think he's fairly shrewd wearing either hat."
-Hal Dawson (Sports Editor Edmonton Journal)

The Toronto Star​

Toronto, Ontario, Canada · Wednesday, December 12, 1962

I continue to find instance of Imlach making lineup changes that led to better output and more winning. Here he adopts a rotating G tandem to keep each of Bower and Simmons rested.

Below you can see players were excused at times. And occasionally players ran practices. Imlach watching from a heated lounge is amusing.

The Toronto Star​

Toronto, Ontario, Canada · Wednesday, December 19, 1962

Jim Proudfoot of the Toronto Star speaks to the abilities of Imlach.

North Bay Nugget​

North Bay, Ontario, Canada · Saturday, March 30, 1963

Bruce Stovel piece that highlights Mahovlich getting benched, Imlach and players bonding over a prank. The players stole one of Imlach's shoes and he threatened to fine everyone $10 until it was returned but it was in jest.

"It's just kibbitzing. Great for keeping the spirits up."
-Imlach

The Ottawa Citizen​

Ottawa, Ontario, Canada · Wednesday, April 17, 1963

Jack Kinsella of the Ottawa Citizen talking about Imlach's shrewd moves in the SCF.

The Calgary Albertan​

Calgary, Alberta, Canada · Friday, December 24, 1965

Another citing of Imlach giving his players an off day, this time a double!

Star-Phoenix​

Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada · Thursday, April 20, 1967

Cam McKenzie of Star Phoenix says Imlach is to be admired for getting his players up for big games.

The Republican​

Springfield, Massachusetts · Wednesday, May 03, 1967

The Toronto Star​

Toronto, Ontario, Canada · Saturday, February 22, 1969

-Incredible piece is a first person account (King Clancy) of Imlach's history.

Same paper, another feature article.

The Ottawa Citizen​

Ottawa, Ontario, Canada · Monday, April 07, 1969

Calgary Herald​

Calgary, Alberta, Canada · Tuesday, April 08, 1969

The Bridgeport Telegram​

Bridgeport, Connecticut · Tuesday, April 08, 1969

Imlach had 2 suitors immediately after being fired by Leafs. Bower and Horton praising Imlach.

Star-Phoenix​

Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada · Thursday, April 10, 1969

An incredible piece that shows a much softer and empathetic side of George Imlach.

The Cincinnati Post​

Cincinnati, Ohio · Friday, July 02, 1971

The Gazette (pre-passing)​

Montreal, Quebec, Canada · Monday, March 19, 1984

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The Toronto Star (pre-passing)​

Toronto, Ontario, Canada · Sunday, March 10, 1985

The Buffalo News​

Buffalo, New York · Tuesday, December 01, 1987

"It was quite an honor to play for him. He was fiery, aggressive, and kindly. In the locker room he could be a dictator, but off the ice he was an extremely kind man."
-Gerry Meehan (former player)

Times Colonist​

Victoria, British Columbia, Canada · Wednesday, December 02, 1987​

"He was one of the most astute hockey men I knew in all my career. As a man, and coach, he had the great ability to get the maximum amount out of the players that he had"
-Sam Pollack (GM of archrival Canadiens)

The Province
Vancouver, Canada - Wednesday, December 02, 1987

"He was super to work for in the early years. He inspired us to great heights that we never thought we were capable of."
-Frank Mahovlich

Calgary Herald​

Calgary, Alberta, Canada · Wednesday, December 02, 1987

"Beliveau, now senior vice president for corporate affairs for the Canadiens, said Imlach played a very important part in my career when I improved my skating. He could see that the game was speeding up, so after practice he had a guy chasing me to make me skate faster. I was a tall, lean guy and at that time tall fellows were often a little slow. Later on in my career I realized how right he was. He had the ability to foresee changes in the game.”
-Jean Beliveau

The Gazette​

Montreal, Quebec, Canada · Wednesday, December 02, 1987

"He was the best coach I ever played for."
-Don Cherry

The Toronto Star​

Toronto, Ontario, Canada · Wednesday, December 02, 1987

"During the 10 seasons which began with Imlach’s 1958 arrival at Maples Leaf Gardens, he made no significant mistakes. It was a glorious period for the Leafs and, in a lot of wonderful ways, for this city. Under The Big I, they won the Stanely Cup championship in 1962, 1963, and 1964 and then added an extra one in ’67."
-Jim Proudfoot (Toronto Star writer)

The Buffalo News​

Buffalo, New York · Wednesday, December 02, 1987

“He was the architect of our first decade of (NHL) hockey in Buffalo,” Knox said. “He really is the man totally responsible for bringing in the players that made us a good team, and got us to the finals.”
-Seymour Knox (Chairman of the board for Buffalo Sabres)

“I guess there are three words that pop into my mind when I think about Punch,” Martin said. “The first word is tough. He was very tough. The other two words that immediately follow are fairness and loyalty.”

“If you put out for Punch, he’d put out for you. It was a two-way street. I had run-ins with him, sure. But I was able to go in and talk….and the runs ins weren’t in the papers. And when I left his office maybe I hadn’t won, but I understood his position.”
-Rick Martin

Jim Lorentz, now a member of the Sabres broadcast team, echoes Martin’s sentiments.

“He was very fair,” said Lorentz, who played with the Sabres from 1972-1978. He put up this big, crabby front, so to speak, but he really had a big heart. He’d always listen to you. You could tell he really felt for the player and he was on your side.”

“He was very fair, an enormously fair person. I can’t emphasize that enough. If you gave him 100 percent, he’d do anything for you.”
-Jim Lorentz (former player)

The Toronto Star​

Toronto, Ontario, Canada · Wednesday, December 02, 1987

The Republican​

Springfield, Massachusetts · Thursday, December 03, 1987

The Sault Star​

Sault St. Marie, Ontario, Canada · Friday, December 04, 1987

The Standard​

St. Catharines, Ontario, Canada · Saturday, December 05, 1987

“Punch had the knack for forcing players to play a full notch above their natural ability. He was a close friend inside and outside of hockey.”
-Dick Duff

“A shake of the hand with Punch and you had a deal confirmed. He was a strong personality whose word was his bond.”
-Emile Francis

He was crusty, tough, but never wanted people to know how much he cared about his players.
-Don Luce

The Buffalo News​

Buffalo, New York · Saturday, December 05, 1987

“Of all of Punch’s fine qualities, his generous heart and his greatness of spirt stand out the most. Tough guy. That was the side he showed the public. He didn’t mind being pictured as a martinet as long as it helped him achieve what he was after. What he was after was winning.”
-George Gross (sports editor Toronto Sun)

"I remember him as a hard-driving coach and manager with a soft touch and a soft heart for people who were in need.”
-Gerry Meehan (Buffalo GM)

“People thought of him as a real tough, mean guy, and he could be just so good for you. He could turn a player on. People didn’t see that side of him. He wouldn’t let people see that side of him."

"My first game ever playing for Punch was in Buffalo, and he just came into the dressing room with that dynamic personality that he had. Everybody just jumped. You could just feel something every time he would step into the room or stand behind the bench. He had this aura around him that just exuded energy.”
-Craig Ramsay

Star-Phoenix​

Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada · Saturday, October 31, 1998

Fantastic piece by George Gross in 1998 asking former players, front office people who the best coach was of all time. Imlach was mentioned a few times by Jean Beliveau, Ken Dryden, Red Kelly, Ralph Mellanby (tied Blake and Imlach for 1st).

"I would tie them for first place. Toe had the firepower, Punch was the motivator and innovator."
-Mellanby

Edmonton Journal​

Edmonton, Alberta, Canada · Monday, May 10, 1999

Don Cherry speaking about Imlach being the best coached he ever played for plus a funny story about Imlach telling Eddie Shore to essentially f*** off.

A fantastic piece from Sports Illustrated

December 12, 1966:

Every man reacts a little bit differently to the grim routine of a Toronto Maple Leaf hockey practice. The older ones skate evenly, lips pressed tightly together and eyes fixed on the ice. The younger ones may yell at one another or curse quietly at no one in particular as they gather the energy for another rush across the rink. George (Punch) Imlach, the bald, 48-year-old coach, stands near the blue line, in the middle of the action, with one hand in his pocket and the other holding a whistle. His crisp voice echoes through the empty Maple Leaf Gardens, goading his players to work longer and harder than any others in the National Hockey League. "That's it," he yells when a few men battle unusually hard for a loose puck. "I want you guys to get mad."

And many of the Maple Leafs do get mad—at each other, at the teams they are preparing to face and, often, at their coach. Few Toronto players will tell you that they like Punch Imlach. They say they "respect him" or "understand him" or "get used to him." Some have even said that they disliked him and thought he was hurting the club—but the ones who said those things in public are no longer playing hockey in Toronto. Those who remain have learned to keep quiet and concentrate on hockey. And in the seven years since the energetic, intense Imlach took over a last-place team in midseason and drove it into the Stanley Cup finals, his players have done well enough to make him one of the most successful men in the game.

That is all Imlach demands. "I don't give a damn if each player likes me personally, as long as he's loyal to the club and does his best," he says. "In fact, I try to avoid getting too close to the players. After all, I'm the general manager, so I've got to talk salary with them, too."

Imlach's history of tough and intransigent salary negotiations has made it very clear that he is not worried about being liked. Bobby Baun played on a broken leg to help the Leafs win the final game of the playoffs two years ago; a year later Imlach refused to grant his salary demands and Baun was a bitter holdout. Eddie Shack, an eight-year major-leaguer, scored 26 goals last season while earning a modest $13,500. This past summer he wheedled a $5,000 increase out of Punch—and Imlach took the first opportunity he found to order Shack to the Leafs' Rochester farm club for the training season.

Each year Imlach stares across his desk at the men whose ability he must depend on for his own livelihood, and calmly denies most of their requests. He guards the club's money as if it were his own. Part of it is, for Punch insists on owning a share in every club he operates, to help preserve his fierce independence from all outside interests, including owners. "But my share is so small that it's unimportant in any negotiations," he says. What is important is Imlach's almost religious concept of the one correct way to run a hockey team. "I decide what's right for each man," he says, "and I stick to it. Sure, I could be on the spot if we lose while a guy like Mahovlich is holding out. But once I start giving in to players, I run all kinds of risks."


The advantages of being a Maple Leaf include playing in a city that supports its local heroes devotedly and cutting up a payroll that is, after all the arguments subside, one of the highest in the National Hockey League. But the main compensation is winning, and Punch Imlach has shown that he is very good at that.

His feats in the 1958-59 season are legendary in Toronto. He came to the floundering club as general manager, and fired its coach within a month. Taking over himself, he immediately began claiming that his last-place team would make the playoffs. With a furious drive in the last two weeks of the season, the Leafs did—and then went on to upset the Boston Bruins in the semifinal round and fight the mighty Montreal Canadiens through five games before losing the finals.

The Leafs won the Stanley Cup in 1962 and repeated for two more years, making Imlach the only combined general manager-coach ever to win three straight cups. The team that finished fifth and sixth in the last two pre-Imlach years hasn't missed the playoffs during his eight-year tenure and certainly doesn't appear likely to miss them this season. When he first made himself coach, Imlach was almost unknown—he had never played or coached in the NHL—and even a little reluctant. "I took over while I was looking for someone else for the job," he says, "but things went so well that I stayed. The players said they wanted me—and I never let them forget that now, by the way." He has survived repeated suggestions that player discontent would force him out of his job, and he now runs his taut regime with the added power that a four-year contract brings.

Imlach spells out what he calls his "formula" as if he were reading from Norman Vincent Peale, whose positive-thinking creed has sometimes been distributed as a textbook to Toronto players. Hard work. Complete control of the club. Positive thinking. Loyalty. "Technical ability," adds Punch, "is only about the fifth most important thing. Good physical and mental shape can make up for a lot of technical deficiencies." It all sounds very simple, but the formula is more complex than it appears—and so is the man who preaches it.

The cold, tough martinet who sometimes alienates his players can also be friendly, entertaining and surprisingly sensitive. He can cajole his men as well as intimidate them. He praises players as often as he criticizes them. "I never knock a man and then leave him down," he says. "I may tell a guy he's a bum during salary talks or when he plays badly. But then I've got to come back and convince him that he's the best bum in all of hockey."

"Every coach may try to use psychology on his players," says George Armstrong, the Toronto captain. "But what Punch does is really amazing. It's almost impossible to sustain a mood or spirit over a 70-game season, but somehow he did it in the 1958-59 season—and he's come pretty close to doing it ever since. Anybody can get a bunch of kids excited for a few games. Look at what Ralph Houk did to the Yankees this year. But they faded back. Punch has never given us a chance to settle back. He knows how to keep us keyed up—and he's always varying his approach."

While Imlach's psychological approach varies, his commitment to hard work remains immutable. Most teams go through four weeks of training camp, practicing once a day, before the NHL season; the Maple Leafs practice twice a day for five weeks. On most clubs an occasional day off during the season is taken for granted; on the Leafs it is a rare gift. "I know some guys find it awfully hard," Imlach says. "Especially ones who come from other teams like Detroit, where Sid Abel doesn't believe in working them too much. I know that some are going to complain, but there's nothing I can do for them. This is the way I believe in doing things."

Goalie Terry Sawchuk, who did come from Detroit, says, "It was very hard at first. But you just have to get used to it. Then you realize that Punch is doing a lot for you."

Center Red Kelly's approval is slightly more qualified. "I agree with him that hard work is important," says Red. "But I also believe that a man can drive himself. And if you drive yourself, you knew just what's good for you and when to stop." If Imlach has sometimes pushed Kelly beyond the point where Red thought he should have stopped, it has apparently brought results. Kelly came to Toronto in 1960 as a once-great defenseman who appeared to be fading. Imlach switched him to center, a position that requires more speed, and Kelly suddenly and incredibly found new life.

The Kelly trade helped to build Imlach's reputation as hockey's shrewdest trader. For Kelly he gave up a defense-man named Marc Reaume, who played 47 games in two years at Detroit, never scored a goal and now labors in the Central Professional Hockey League. He got Allen Stanley for James Morrison, now a minor-leaguer, and added Gerry Ehman and Larry Regan during that same 1958-59 season, to form a trio that led the Leafs in their closing drive into the playoffs.

Imlach permits himself to gloat a little about his best deals, but he always points out that his trades are all dependent on another part of his formula. "Nobody second-guesses me around here," he says. "I make the decisions myself, and I take full responsibility. The owners of this club know that as soon as they want to make the decisions, all they have to do is fire me. I always remember what Conn Smythe once told me: be sure to make your own mistakes."

Actually, Smythe's fatherly advice was given only after Imlach had revised the owner's entire way of thinking about the Toronto team. When Imlach arrived, Smythe was still employing a quaint system of instructing his coach during a game by a special phone to the bench. He told Imlach that he would be happy to offer advice between periods. "Let's do it my way," replied Punch. "I run the whole show, you watch it. As soon as you don't like it, just tell me to get the hell out."

Imlach is still running the whole show, and running it effectively. He gives orders and his team obeys; he tells them they can win and they do. But the element of loyalty, which Imlach claims is essential to his success, is not always apparent. The coach is cold and distant, his players are professionals doing a job. There is no love between them, but Imlach insists that there is another kind of bond. "They have to want to help the team, they have to be willing to give things up. Every winning team needs that feeling."

In order to encourage that feeling, Imlach himself adheres to a rigid code of loyalty. Last year, when the NHL expansion teams began looking for general managers, he received several lucrative offers. The Leafs were not going well and there were widespread rumors that Imlach would be wise to get out while he had a chance at a good job. "Sure, the deals were attractive," he recalls. "The Leaf owners came to me and asked me if I was going to leave. I told them they didn't have to worry about me as long as my contract had a year left on it. I wouldn't break a contract for any amount of money. Once a coach starts doing something like that, what can he expect his players to do?"

Some critics claim that his fervent concept of loyalty has hurt Imlach during the last two years. The aging players who played a dominant role in the Leafs' Stanley Cup triumphs have slowed down considerably, and the Leafs have settled for relatively disappointing seasons. "Maybe I did hurt myself by sticking with the veterans," Punch admits. "But these are the guys who held the club together to win three cups. I feel I've got to show them I appreciate what they've done for me."

When he speaks of Armstrong, Kelly or the ageless Bower ("the most remarkable athlete in the world—he'd practice nine hours a day without complaining if you asked him to"), Imlach abandons the icy attitude he likes to maintain toward his men. But it always returns very quickly. "A player should want to keep training," he claims. "He should feel he owes it to his teammates. There should never be a need for curfew checks." Then he pauses and grins at the sentimental notions he is expressing. "Of course, I check up on them anyway. I believe in discipline as well as loyalty."

If Imlach can't force a man to become an effective part of his club, he simply gets rid of him—even if he is a star. Andy Bathgate, the ninth leading scorer in hockey history, helped Toronto to its most recent Stanley Cup in 1964 with several crucial goals. After one more year with the club, Bathgate told a reporter that Imlach was too hard on the team, that the brutal practice sessions hurt them. "Bathgate is a lazy hockey player," Imlach pronounced. "He doesn't fit in on my club." He traded him to Detroit for the scarred veteran Pronovost, who may be less spectacular but who also says, "The only way I ever stayed in this game was by hard work."

The other major cause cél√®bre of the Imlach regime, Carl Brewer, was far more important to the team than Bathgate. Brewer was one of the best defense-men in hockey when the 1964-65 season ended and, at 27, he was still at the peak of his career. But this tough, sometimes vicious player also happened to be an extremely sensitive, introspective individual—so sensitive that even the astute psychologist Imlach may have made some serious mistakes with him.

Brewer was confused and sullen when he reported to practice for the 1965-66 campaign. His friend Baun was a holdout, and he himself was unhappy that Imlach wasn't treating him like the star he had become. During exhibition games he made a series of terrible passes onto opponents' sticks; several times opposing forwards took advantage of them to aim hard shots at Goalie Bower. Finally Bower reacted; he and Brewer had a loud argument in the locker room.

"I blew my top," Imlach says. "When I saw what was happening because of Brewer's sulking, I knew I had to do something." There was never much doubt about what he would do. Faced with a choice between the steadfast, reliable Bower and the quiet, unpredictable younger man whom he never really understood, Imlach backed up Bower. He assaulted Brewer with one of the colorful, oath-filled tirades for which he is famous—and Brewer broke down. He left the Toronto training camp and announced his retirement.

George Imlach began his own career as a promising center on a junior hockey team, but five years in the army—as a drill sergeant, naturally—took away his chance to make the major leagues. When he was discharged in 1945, the 27-year-old Imlach got a trial with the Red Wings. He arrived at camp at the same time as a 17-year-old prospect named Gordie Howe. "Both of us were assigned to their Omaha farm team," he recalls. "But Howe had his whole career ahead of him. I had just been married and I was broke. I also knew I was no Howe, and I had to be realistic about my chances. I went back to Quebec City and took an accountant's job."

In Quebec he became connected with a team called the Quebec Aces. Within 10 years he had been player, coach, general manager and even part owner of the consistently winning club. In 1956-57 he went to the Bruins' farm club in Springfield and the following year to Toronto.

As he began to remake the Leafs' entire farm system and lead his team to the playoffs, Imlach was alternately exuberant and unapproachable. He would gloat loudly when he won and fly into rages when things went badly. He can still show as much temper as anyone in hockey, but now he has also made an art of expressing his views and answering—or refusing to answer—questions.

Early this season the Leafs appeared to be off to another slow start. Mahovlich was unsigned, Bob Pulford and Baun were hurt and the remaining players had managed to lose and tie their first two games against the New York Rangers. Imlach sat in a small room next to the players' dressing room after a practice and stared menacingly at reporters. A brave soul asked about the three missing stars. "I don't know if they're good enough to make this team," Punch snapped. Someone else asked him why Johnny Bovver had been granted a day off. "Because I'm getting soft and sentimental," he said. Before the session was over, he had insulted and infuriated several of the men who must earn a living asking him questions. Mumbling and cursing, the reporters filed out. Imlach called after them, "Come on downstairs and I'll buy you all a drink."

Two days later Mahovlich signed his contract. The men who had kept the dull vigil over the negotiations were finally rewarded. "How much did he get?" they asked.

"No comment."

"How long is the contract for?"

"No comment."

"Are you satisfied with the compromise you reached?"

"No comment."

There were five more questions, five more quick "no comment" replies. Then Punch looked up from his desk, his eyes wide and his face breaking into an innocent smile. "Is there anything else that you fellows would like to know about it?" he asked.

It has all become a kind of pleasant game for the man who would like everyone to believe that he is grim and uncompromising in everything he does. "I've learned to enjoy life," he once admitted. "I've got a good organization and a solid job. It would be pretty stupid of me if I didn't get some fun out of the whole thing. Sure, things will be tough at times and I'll get mad. But don't worry about us—no matter what goes wrong, I'll be in the playoffs.

"You know," he added, "people tell me I shouldn't keep saying, 'I, I, I,' when I talk about the team. It sounds bad. They say I should say 'we' or 'the club.' But I must admit I can't help it. I get so damn involved with what I'm trying to do, it feels like it's all my own private problem."