Miller Time
Registered User
- Sep 16, 2004
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I'm not sure I agree. The base question is an interesting one. Yes, Gainey was a massive part of the Habs dynasty, and he's obviously one of the best defensive forwards ever.
But is Bergeron a relevant historical player without Thomas and Rask? Kopitar without Quick? Toews without Keith and Kane?
Would they be remembered by the average fan in 20 years if not for the players around them, even if they obviously were imperative for their team's winning?
Is there any player you wouldn't ask that question of?
If the question was wether or not said players would've won a cup(s) without their teammates... Sure.
But what made Gainey a unique and rare talent, is not the number of rings he has. The Soviet commentary about him speaks to the recognition of what a special player he was. That recognition has nothing to do with whom his teammates were...
The OPs post wasn't really what my comment was directed at... Though it was an easy answer. Ithe HOF has many players that don't have their name on the Stanley Cup, most of which weren't as impactful hockey players as Gainey was (though most had more points than him).
It's those posters who can't see past points in assessing hockey ability that I was referring to.