MLD 2016 Bio Thread

[seventieslord]

Viktor Shalimov, RW

- 5'10", 176 lbs

DOMESTIC
- USSR League Champion (1976)
- USSR 1st All-Star Team (1976, 1982)
- Placed top-10 in scoring 7 times (1st, 3rd, 5th, 6th, 6th, 7th, 7th)
- Placed top-15 in MVP voting 5 times (3rd, 4th, 7th, 9th, 15th)
- Converted USSR VsX scores: 89, 77, 76, 73, 68, 63, 60

INTERNATIONAL
- World Championship/Olympic Gold (1975, 1976, 1981, 1982)
- World Championship Silver/Bronze (1976, 1977)
- Top-2 in scoring in major tournament three times (1st-1975, 1st-1976, 2nd-1982)
- 61 points in 49 major international games
- Also 19 points in 18 Summit/Canada Cup/Super Series Games
- Led all Soviets with 8 points in 1975 Super Series
- His two goals in his only 1974 Summit series game were the 2-1 (unassisted) and 3-1 (shorthanded) goals in the 4rd period of the final game, won 3-2 by USSR
- 3rd in Golden Stick voting (1982)
- Best forward award (1982)

It was the winter of 1975-76 that hockey teams from the USSR first played a series of games against NHL teams in North America. After one of the goals scored by the Soviet Wings in the last game against the Islanders, all the players on the soviet bench burst out laughing. It was scored by Viktor Shalimov, and the goal actually was kind of funny. "We were doing our best to defend our net because we were one man short. One of our players lobbed the puck into the Islanders' zone. I rushed into their zone just in case, although I realized that the American goalie would be the first to reach the puck. And then the goalie's stick split in half. Shadrin yells to me, 'Shoot!' A defenseman took the goalie's position in the net. Then I zipped behind the net, and the defenseman followed me. I managed to sweep around the net, but he didn't, and by that time the puck had already crossed the goal line..."

In that series, Shalimov scored a goal in every game... Shalimov chalked up the greatest number of points among the soviet players... whenever Shalimov played in games at the highest level, he almost always played well or even brilliantly. But he sometimes missed out on the most crucial games. In the 174 series against the best of the WHA, the coach of the soviet team Boris Kulagin, kept him in reserve for seven games and let him out on the ice only in the last game. And Shalimov scored two goals. The following spring, at age 24, Shalimov made his debut in the world championships, and right off the bat, he racked up the highest number of points.

In 1976 Spartak won the championship. It appeared that Shalimov had a long and productive career ahead of him. But Spartak was a capricious and uneven team. Coaches came and went. Shalimov was matched up with faster partners and earmarked as the playmaker. Not only that, he was often given the job of neutralizing the leading players of the strongest opposing teams. Shalimov, who had joined the world of hockey to score goals, win victories, and experience thrills, was starting to get bored. He spent time wasting away in secondary roles until he was placed on Spartak's main forward line together with Shadrin and Yakushev. At that time, the line thrived on Yakushev's scoring talents. his partners merely fed passes to him. But with the arrival of Shalimov, the forward line experienced rejuvenation. Things started to click. The scoring ability of all three players evened out and Yakushev got his second wnd. Their game began to really sparkle.

Shalimov was always thought of as an optimist, and he glowed when everything was running smoothly for the team. When a game was well-played, he couldn't contain his enthusiasm and had to share it with others. But in the second half of the 1970s, he began to wilt. He went through a long time drought during which the coaches of the national team seemed to have forgotten his name. Having slept through some of the best years of his hockey life, he tuned back into the game in 1980 on the eve of his 30th birthday. Boris Kulagin shook up the lines in an attempt to bring the team out of its slump. The virtually unknown Sergei Shepelev and Sergei Kapustin were paired off with Shalimov, and once again an excellent forward line began to produce results on the ice. More than anyone else, Shalimov was thrilled with the realignment. He got a chance to relive the glory days of the mid-1970s. He once again gave his game everything he had, stickhandling his way around the ice at top speed in the best tradition of soviet hockey.

The Shepelev line outperformed the others during the 1981 world championship... they put up an incredible performance in the most important games - the semifinal against Czechoslovakia and the final against Canada - Shalimov and Shepelev cooked up some real magic, dazzling the spectators with their feints and lightning passes. In tough contests on rinks narrower than Shalimov was accustomed to, he proved that he didn't have to have free, open spaces for his style of play to work. he was in such good shape that, against all resistance, he was able to create his own free ice.

The magic lasted through one more world championship. Shalimov was older than his partners and called it quits before the others. In spite of his quiet years, he was a truly remarkable hockey player. He had a refined feel for the game and displayed a high degree of coordination, maneuverability and self-composure. He was almost an ideal hockey player, but right to the end he never felt he was the master of his own fate.

Says Viktor Shalimov, olympic champion of 1976, the merited master of sports: "A player who is regarded as a sports personality is above all fanatic of hockey, fanatic in the sense of faithful devotion to this game. Sports does not isolate players from the rest of the world but it does not forgive betrayal. You should never get on the ice just "to play your number". Any match with any opponent is a test. There is no way of playing below your level. Being a sports personality means playing with self-denial fully absorbed in the game without fear of injuries. This is sport. The manly sport."

For two years , they as right winger Viktor Shalimov , who knows how to use spaces to reveal its qualities of great goalscorer .

Yakushev was nicknamed as the "Big Yak" and was the top offensive talent of the line. Shadrin was a brilliant two-way forward. After the 1974 Summit, Shalimov completed the line with a free-wheeling high-scoring right wing.

How Shalimov scored his two goals in game 8 of the 1974 summit:

Victor Kuznetsov fired a rocket on the net that Cheevers stopped, but he lost control of the rebound. Neither Stapleton nor Tremblay could clear it, and it went to Viktor Shalimov to the right of Cheevers. He easily flipped the puck into the net, putting the Soviets into the lead for the first time in the game.

...Canada could not capitalize on this advantage, as the soviet penalty killing was superb. It was the soviets who broke through here, as Yakushev and Shalimov took a two-on-one with J.C. Tremblay back. They passed the puck back and forth with mind-boggling speed. They finished the play with Shalimov taking a perfect goalmouth feed from Yakushev and snapping the puck past Cheevers for his second goal of the game.

 

[seventieslord]

Andre Lacroix, C

- 5'8", 175 lbs
- WHA 1st All-Star Team (1973, 1974, 1975)
- Top-11 in WHA scoring 6 times (1st, 1st, 2nd, 5th, 6th, 8th, 11th)
- Best VsX scores: 92, 88, 88, 74, 66, 65, 60 (bolded are converted WHA scores)
- Philadelphia Flyers leading scorer (1969, 1970)
- Played in 1974 Summit Series

Andre Lacroix was a dangerous offensive player who enjoyed six solid years in the NHL. His most noteworthy scoring feats took place in junior and the WHA.

...The talented centre impressed by scoring 14 points in 18 games during the 1967-68 season. The next year he scored 24 goals playing with Dick Sarrazin and Jean-Guy Gendron which began a string of three straight 20-goal performances. Early in the 1971-72 season, Lacroix was traded to the Chicago Black Hawks because the Flyers had Bobby Clarke, Bill Clement Eddie Joyal, Michel Parizeau and young Rick MacLeish waiting in the wings.

Prior to the 1972-73 season, Lacroix decided to try his luck with the Philadelphia Blazers of the WHA. He blossomed with a league leading 124 points and was named to the first all-star team. Lacroix proved he was no flash in the pan by leading the WHA with 80 assists in 1973-74 and topping the scoring parade with 147 points for the San Diego Mariners the next season. He also took part in the 1974 Summit Series versus the USSR and was selected to the WHA first all-star team in 1974 and 1975.

While the WHA paled in quality comparisons to the NHL, it has a certain intrigue about it. After all, the WHA raided NHL and junior rosters and boasted names like Bobby Hull, Gordie Howe, Wayne Gretzky, Mike Gartner, Anders Hedberg and Ulf Nilsson among many others.

But it was André Lacroix who may very well be considered the best player during the WHA's 7 year existence.

At 5'8" 175lbs, André was too small for the NHL game. However his immense skill level earned him a full time spot with the Philadelphia Flyers in 1968. André was a shifty skater with good speed. His vision of the ice and playmaking abilities placed him among the game's elite in those two categories. Simply put, André's style of play was Gretzky-like. His stick handling ability was awesome.

André earned a full time NHL job the following training camp. He would play three full seasons with the Flyers, scoring more than 20 goals in each season. But his size eventually limited him to the role of power play specialist. He centered the team's #1 line in year one. The line was called the French Line, with Jean-Guy Gendron on left wing and first Dick Sarrazin and then Simon Nolet on right wing. The line was small and fast, and André in particular became a fan favorite. However after the team's playoff failure management decided to go in another direction, drafting bigger and stronger players from the western Canadian prairies, building an image that would soon be known as the Broad Street Bullies.

"We had a defensive team then," André remembered. "We were always going for the tie. In fact, we set the NHL record for ties (24) that one year (1969-70). I guess Vic Stasiuk (Philly's coach) just didn't like my style of play. He probably wanted a rough-tough guy and I just wasn't that type of player."

Following his terrible 1971-72 season, André moved back to Philadelphia, but this time it was with the WHA's Blazers. He became an instant star in the WHA's first season, scoring 50 goals and 74 assists for 124 points - earning him the Hunter Trophy as leading score and the Davidson Trophy as the league's first MVP.

"It never mattered how good you were, confidence was 60 percent of the game. If the coach didn't have the confidence to put you on the ice, you didn't do well."

André set a then-professional record of 106 assists in the 1974-75 season while with the San Diego Mariners. His 106 assists bettered Bobby Orr's 102 assist season of 1970-71. He also added 41 goals to again win the Hunter Trophy.

André played with 5 WHA teams in 7 years, playing 551 games. His 574 assists are a league high, almost 200 more than second place J.C. Tremblay. André's 251 goals ranks 4th all time, giving him a league leading 798 WHA points, ahead of second place Marc Tardif by 132 points, and 160 points more than Bobby Hull.

"For sure, we played wide-open hockey in the WHA but that's what the fans wanted to see," André said years later.

1974 proved to be a big year for "The Magician" when he was named to Team Canada and took part in the 1974 Summit Series versus the USSR. He was also named Professional Canadian Athlete of the Year in 1974. He was selected to the WHA first all-star team in 1974 and again in 1975. While playing for the San Diego Mariners he recorded a WHA record 106 assists, a record that was never broken. Lacroix became the all-time leading scorer in the WHA with 251 goals and 547 assists in seven years.

Andre Lacroix, an undersized center from Quebec, made the most of his chance to play in the NHL and became the Flyers' most dangerous offensive player during the team's first four years of existence. After moving from the NHL to the fledgling World Hockey Association, he went on to become WHA's all-time leading scorer.

"Andy had a lot of finesse on the ice. He was a little guy but he was a great passer and stickhandler," said Flyers Hall of Fame defenseman Joe Watson. "He was also a good guy off the ice."

Lacroix had two strikes against him as a player. Standing just 5'8'' tall and playing between 170 to 175 pounds, he also lacked speed. Lacroix had to rely on his creativity and soft hands to overcome his physical limitations. His top-notch playmaking skills on the ice earned him the nickname "The Magician."

Andre Lacroix only spent one and a half seasons in Quebec, but he was so popular that he was sometimes called "the King of Quebec City." The home crowds at Le Colisée de Québec adored Lacroix's puckhandling and passing wizardry.

----------------

Lacroix made his NHL debut for the Flyers on February 21 in Pittsburgh. With the Flyers trailing the Penguins 1-0 in the second period and being badly outshot, Lacroix stole the puck from a Penguin and scored his first NHL goal on a backhand shot past goaltender Les Binkley. The game ended in a 1-1 tie.

The next day, the Flyers played at home against the Minnesota North Stars. Lacroix put on a dazzling display for the 14,392 fans at the Spectrum. Playing on a line with Leon Rochefort and Brit Selby, Lacroix set up a Rochefort goal late in the first period and then scored in the final minute of the period to give the Flyers a 3-1 lead.

In the middle stanza, Lacroix brought the crowd to its feet by stickhandling around three Minnesota players on a rush up the ice. Midway through the period, he dished to Rochefort for another goal. Late in the period, Lacroix set up Rochefort yet again to complete a hat trick. All four of the line's goals were scored at even strength.

At the conclusion of the game, Lacroix was named the first star (Rochefort was second star). Lacroix earned one of the first standing ovations received by a Flyers player at the Spectrum.

In the next day's Philadelphia Bulletin, there was an open letter to Quebec coach Stasiuk saying Philadelphia would be keeping his best player for the rest of the season and opining that Lacroix was "already more popular than William Penn" in the City of Brotherly Love.

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"The Blazers were a badly run organization, but we had some talented players," recalls Nick Polano, a Blazers defenseman who later went on to be the head coach of the Detroit Red Wings and is now a pro scout for the Ottawa Senators. "Andre Lacroix had a lot of skill and worked hard for the team every night."

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That year (74-75), he won his second Hunter Trophy with 147 points and compiled an astounding 106 assists. At the time, it set a new professional hockey record (subsequently shattered by Wayne Gretzky, who reached as many as 163 helpers) and made Lacroix the first pro player after Bobby Orr to reach the 100-assist mark in a single season.

During his hottest stretch of the season, Lacroix registered points in 32 straight games. Over that stretch, Lacroix racked up 69 points (16 goals and 53 assists). On his way to the record, Lacroix set a separate WHA mark for most consecutive games with an assist. From January 18 to February 24, 1975, he set up at least one teammate for a goal in 16 straight games.

Lacroix was selected to the Team Canada squad for the 1974 Summit Series that pitted the best Canadians of the WHA against the best of Russia. Andre did not disappoint as the second highest scorer on the team.

Lacroix centered a line with Rivers and Dick Sentes in San Diego, the year Rivers, a little known journeyman, scored 54 for the Mariners. In truth, Rivers' productivity that season had more to do with Lacroix's sublime passing skills than with his obscenely curved stick...

A good skater with outstanding stickhandling ability and a strong, accurate shooter.

Andre Lacroix finally found himself... "I said to him he had to hustle because he wasn't working as hard as he should have been," said Allen. "I didn't want to rap the guy because we had a numberof other players who weren't giving 100% either." Lacroix remembers the conversation, too. "I told Keith I knew I was capable of playing much better but it seemed I wasn't getting my stick on the puck enough. But I promised him I'd really try to go all out." Then things started happening! Lacroix was a completely different player on the ice. His sudden transformation found him skating and passing as he did when with the club last season... in turn, the entire line started to score goals... "As far as my talk with lacroix is concerned, I was very happy that he came to me about his problem at the time. This proved to me that he himself knew he could do a lot better. He knew that there was only one way he was going to start scoring goals, by giving it a better effort. I never had any doubts because I remember how well he played when he was with us late last season...

I certainly feel Bobby's performance has had an excellent effect on Andre," commented Stasiuk. "Lacroix sees the way Clarke has been hitting and hustling, and he figures he should be doing the same. Neither is jealous of the other, mind you, but they're both proud guys. They want to do well. Andre recognizes how hard Bobby works and how it gets results. So he, too, has been plugging away much harder and he's also finding it's paying off. Now Lacroix is setting the example for the rest of the club."

Critics snorted that Lacroix was too small when the Flyers brought him up but Philly boss Bud Poile argued, "he's as big as Keon or Mikita, he's fast and he has good moves." That confidence was justified when Lacroix led the club in points last season.

seedy "frenchy" was picked twice as league MVP over Bobby Orr (in junior)... he's a good skater.

An NHL center should weigh more than 160 lbs, Andre lacroix decided, so he tried to put on some poundage at the start of the season. "All he did was slow himself down, and he got off to a terrible start. He didn't come out of the slump until he got his weight back down," said coach Vic Stasiuk... recovering nicely, Lacroix came on to be Philadelphia's leading scorer for the second straight year.

though small in stature, he is difficult to check because of his size and skating ability

Andre Lacroix may not realize this, but one of his greatest admirers is Flyers coach Vic Stasiuk. That's why it has hurt Stasiuk as much as Lacroix to have the playmaking center spend so much time on the bench... Lacroix didn't like being kept off the ice and refused to hide the fact that, if it continued, he wouldn't mind playing elsewhere... "Andre just isn't consistent and that's why he's been sitting out quite a bit lately," explained Vic. "Sure, he's absolutely great against some teams, but he's bloody awful against others. That's why he isn't playing as much as he thinks he should. Instead of talking about a trade, Andre should ask himself why he hasn't been playing regularly... believe me, I know what magic he can flash with the puck.... those who employ a tight checking game, they do this and all too often, Andre can't play his normal game... limited ice time may only be a temporary thing... he's a great little hockey player when he's able to play his game, but he's got to be more consistent." Andre admits that his checking game is one reason he's been in Stasiuk's doghouse occasionally. "But I've really been working hard to improve my defensive play. I honestly think I've improved considerably in that respect. Yet I'm still sitting around and watching. It's tough on a player's confidence..."

Three straight 20 goal seasons have established "Andy" as a solid Philadelphia favourite.

Just a little guy but his speed keeps him one step ahead of the defense... one of the most popular players on the club with fans...

The most productive shooter in Philadelphia's brief NHL history has been this diminutive center... it's surprising to learn that Lacroix spent much of the 70-71 season on the Flyers' bench. The inactivity was ascribed to two factors: inconsistency and the excellent work of three other centers... "I know what he can do with the puck but that magic doesn't work against certain clubs, the ones that check closely," says Vic Stasiuk... "I feel I can score against anybody if I'm given the chance," Lacroix contended.

Lacroix encountered personal problems with Philadelphia management and never quite got over them...

Coach Billy Reay said he's had his eye on Lacroix for some time. "He can handle the puck, and he's certainly proven he can score."... the word on Lacroix was that he didn't check well in Philly. "I realize that I had to improve there. I went into Allen after the last season ended and told him that I was going to work hard on it, and he seemed pleased. Then I went to training camp and I had nothing to do."... when he came to the Hawks he not only had to satisfy Reay and his veteran linemates, but he had to get into shape and regain his timing...

Philadelphia Blazers' exciting center iceman was wide eyed at the icetime in his new circumstance... "for the first time in three years, I'm happy"... "Andre has a lot to do with our sudden turnabout," praised coach Phil Watson. "He's been giving us 100% at both ends of the ice and when he's doing that, there's not a better stickhandler in the league... he's the only top drawer caliber player who hasn't spent time on the injury list... "I credit my conditioning program for keeping me in shape and permitting me to avoid injuries. I was a little heavy when training camp opened, but physically I was in good shape. During the offseason, I ran in the park across the street from my home... sure, I have a few beers after a game, but not enough to create a weight problem... keeping in shape is a day by day thing, you can't let yourself go for one day."... when the game ends, I feel like playing another period, I feel like a boy again."... "he puts the puck right on the stick," said Danny Lawson. "If I didn't miss so many shots, I would be leading the league and Andre would be the biggest reason."

known as one of the slickest stickhandlers in hockey

WHA Correspondents' Poll

Best playmaker:
Gordie Howe, 18 pts
Andre Lacroix, 17 pts
Ralph Backstrom, 6 pts

Best Stickhandler:
Andre Lacroix, 17 pts
Ralph Backstrom, 7 pts
Gordie Howe, 7 pts

Smartest player:
Gordie Howe, 21 pts
Andre Lacroix, 6 pts
Pat Stapleton, 6 pts
Bobby Hull, 6 pts

Best on faceoffs:
Larry Lund, 12 pts
Ralph Backstrom, 11 pts
Jim Harrison, 10 pts
Andre Lacroix, 7 pts

Lacroix really rose to the occasion and played a gutsy 8 games in the 1974 Summit Series:

Andre wasn't blessed with great speed or size, but he had a deft scoring touch, was a superb playmaker, and was an excellent defensive forward. He was also among the game's finest faceoff men.

...Team Canada's penalty killing, led by Andre Lacroix and Bobby Hull upfront, was tremendous, keeping the soviets off the scoreboard.

Andre Lacroix's offensive numbers tailed off dramatically in Moscow, but his crack defensive play and faceoff kills kept him in the lineup, and deservedly so. He showed the NHL and the world that he was a legitimate top center.

30 years later, Rick Smith says... "Andre Lacroix - he was always underappreciated, except for the players on his team. Playing with Bobby Hull, he was the perfect complement, getting him the puck and playing tough hockey - a true competitor and great talent.

They call him "The Magician". He is a marvel. He skates swiftly and fluidly, shifting speeds deceptively, making the puck do tricks on the end of his stick. he hustles, he is always on the puck, he makes magic with it, skating with it, shooting it or passing it...

...the big bruising Cougars kept coming at them, wearing their weary foes down. Roughing them up, the Cougars caught the Mariners and passed them. In the last part of the game, the Marines had little left, but they gave what they had. Lacroix gave everything he had. He played almost 15 minutes of the final 20, but what he did, did not work. The Cougars kept clobbering him. He slashed at them with his stick. He played to the point of exhaustion... afterwards, Lacroix sat in one corner of the dressing room, leaning back, eyes closed, arms folded...

I told him I was sorry his streak had ended. "yes, me too, but I feel worse about not winnng. We need the wins. If we don't win, the season will be over for us soon. We had them and lost them. We couldn't keep up."... the important thing about (his 32 game points streak) is that it shows you are contributing consistently to your team. He liked that. "Yes, that's it, that's what I feel. I did not always play regularly for other teams, I could not be consistent. Here I have become consistent and I think that's the most important thing in a player." Was he playing better now than ever before? "Oh yes, I am more consistent, more confident, more mature both physically and mentally now."

If Hull isn't the MVP in the WHA this season, Lacroix will be. He is typical of the talent that slipped through NHL hands. He was not a big star in the NHL. He is a big star in the WHA. So, some say, that shows the difference between the NHL and WHA. Maybe. But the NHL makes mistakes on players, as all leagues do. Lacroix is small. You watch him and you remember he was pushed around in the NHL and you realize he might still be beaten up and held down in the NHL. But you see him stab and slash with his stick and shake off checks to pursue the puck aggressively and you wonder if he has not learned how to handle tough tactics. He says, "I have had to get tough. I had to learn to use my stick so the defenders would think twice before picking on my more than once. I learned to defend myself. It has freed me to play as I can play.... I am an offensive player, but I play defense, too... I am proud of that."

...the fans here holler every time their hero touches the puck. He is a simply splendid player, wonderful to watch, and he is a marvellous man... he has done an unselfish job around town representing the team as its goodwill ambassador...

Teammates say this man will sacrifice personal gain for team performance... tremendous competitor...superb hockey player... was nipped by Hull in the voting for MVP...

Andre Lacroix is not only the superstar, the San Diego magician, but a highly qualified merchandising expert...

The general consensus is that Andre is the finest center in the WHA. A tremendous playmaker... a great skater with tremendous strength for his size, he seldom loses a faceoff...

Could properly be called the franchise... tremendously popular in San Diego... a star of the league he helped found... has never missed a game in the league's four seasons... always mentally prepared for a game... a classicplaymaker, feeding soft, measured passes...

"The problem is the uncertainty of the situation," Lacroix explained late in the season. "We don't have any idea of what's happening. We don't know if new owners are going to appear. But the players want to stay here." Lacroix, one of the best playmakers in hockey, was ready to play. All he needed was a team.

This WHA original has the distinction of having never missed a game in the league's five season history... always available and interesting to interview... fiercely competitive, especially on home ice... knits a soft pass to his wingers who love to play beside him.

One of pro hockey's finest performers...

In the early years of the WHA, its best centerman by far was a playmaking middleweight named Andre Lacroix... not quite the dominant figure he used to be, but still capable ofmaking his presence felt. He was 7th in WHA scoring last season, which wasn't at all bad... "There aren't many better passers in hockey than Andy," says Don Blackburn. "His wingers always do well."

seems to have slowed down a bit, but he still knits a pretty pass, scores his share of goals and plays with a fierce determination... missed only three games in seven WHA seasons.

 

[seventieslord]

Dave Babych, D

- 6'2", 225 lbs
- Stanley Cup Finalist (1994)
- Placed 9th, 11th, 14th in All-star voting (1982, 1986, 1983)
- Top-12 in defense scoring 5 times (3rd, 5th, 5th, 11th, 12th)
- Best defense VsX scores: 100, 88, 85, 84, 74, 64, 60
- Played in NHL All-Star Game (1983, 1984)
- Averaged 23.62 minutes per game (17.82) for 1197 games for teams 5% below average
- Averaged 26.02 minutes per game (19.10 at ES) in 8-year prime for teams 9% below average
- Top-4 in team TOI 16 times: 1, 1, 1, 1, 1, 1, 1, 1, 2, 2, 2, 2, 2, 3, 3, 4
- Top-4 in team ES TOI 15 times: 1, 1, 1, 1, 1, 1, 1, 1, 1, 1, 1, 3, 3, 4, 4
- Top-10 in league TOI 5 times (2nd, 2nd, 4th, 5th, 10th)
- Killed 31% of penalties for teams 3% below average
- 62 points in 114 playoff games

Babych went straight to the NHL without a game in the minors, suiting up for 69 contests with the Winnipeg Jets in 1980-81. By 1983, he was an NHL All-Star, and he went on to score 74 points that year, a career high. During his sixth season with the Jets, two of which he was named to the All-Star Team, Babych was traded to the Hartford Whalers for Ray Neufeld.

With the Whalers, Babych didn't reach the offensive highs he hit as a Jet but maintained his solid two way game, providing solid defence and chipping in points on a consistent basis. After Babych's sixth campaign with Hartford, he was on the move again.

...With the Canucks, Babych joined a blue line corps in need of a steady veteran presence, and he was able to provide. During his third season with the Canucks, they advanced all the way to the Stanley Cup finals and extended the eventual champion New York Rangers to a seventh game. Babych provided three goals and eight points that playoffs.

Babych spent parts of four more years with the Canucks before he was traded again, this time to the Philadelphia Flyers, who felt they were poised for a serious playoff run and wanted a veteran presence on their blueline. The Flyers, however, had a disappointing post-season, and Babych didn't get his second chance at a Cup.

There were two stages to Dave Babych's career.

There was early Dave Babych, the junior superstar, the 2nd overall draft pick and the offensive defenseman. And then there was the later Dave Babych, a really solid defensive rearguard who quietly but effectively remained a solid defender.

...Babych grew up in Edmonton, dreaming of playing in the NHL alongside his brother Wayne. Dave would dominate with Portland of the WHL, combining size and skating and puck movement. He was a gifted offensive blueliner, but also a very good positional defender.

Babych joined the Jets in 1980. It was not easy for the 19 year old rookie, as the Jets were the league's worst team and too much pressure was placed upon the young Babych. Still, he was Winnipeg's best player, posting 44 points and representing the Jets in the NHL all star game. He would post 4 consecutive successive seasons of at least 57 points, including a career high 74 (13 goals and 61 assists) in 1982-83.

Despite his personal successes in Winnipeg, he remained a league secret. The Jets improved, but were never serious contenders in the old Smythe Division. Babych's scoring exploits were also dwarfed by the likes of Ray Bourque, Mark Howe, Murphy and especially Paul Coffey. The Jets grew impatient, and traded their defensive kingpin to Hartford in November, 1985, receiving rugged winger Ray Neufeld in return.

Babych played 5 and 1/2 seasons in Hartford, suffering from the same anonymity and lack of team success. His scoring prowess also went down in the lower scoring Adams Division, but he was probably the best defenseman the NHL Whalers ever had.

In 1990 it looked as though his career may have been over. Having been able to escape the injury troubles that plague his brother, the 10 year veteran had his wrist fused. It was doubtful if he'd ever be able to shoot a hockey puck again.

The Whalers dropped him, but Pat Quinn and the Vancouver Canucks gave Babych a chance to reclaim his NHL career. He was able to bounce back very nicely, playing 7 seasons in Vancouver. Babych supplied veteran leadership and a steadying influence in the back end, though he never scored more than 32 points.

The 32 points came in the 1993-94 season, which also hosted Babych's career highlight. Forming a reliable pairing with Gerald Diduck, Babych helped the Canucks reach his only Stanley Cup finals. The Canucks came within a goal post in game 7 of winning the Stanley Cup, but the chalice would escape Babych's grasp.

Babych is eternally grateful to Pat Quinn for giving him a chance to get his career back on track and to play for 10 more years during the big money era.

"Luckily Pat Quinn took a chance on me," Babych told Jeff Rud in the book Canucks Legends.

"(After the wrist surgery) you couldn't stickhandle the same way, you couldn't move the puck the same way, you couldn't shoot the same way. So you knew if you didn't change your game you were kind of hooped.

"Pat basically told me: 'Babs, I don't care if you get a point or score a goal. I really don't car. I just want you to play solid hockey."

Babych lasted seven years in Vancouver before he was exiled, like Quinn and so many members of that 1994 team before him, by new owners John McCaw and coach Mike Keenan.

Babych no longer figured in the plans of the Hartford Whalers... "I had the wrist fused. The people in Hartford thought I was faking it, but the doctor said it was the most serious wrist surgery that you can get other than chopping your hand off. Hartford didn't want to know about it. Luckily, Pat Quinn took a chance on my and I ended up seven years in Vancouver."

Previously an offensive-minded defenseman, his game became more defense-oriented and he proved to be a steady, veteran component on a rising team. Today he says the injury was partially responsible for the change in playing style... while in Vancouver he formed a reliable defensive pairing with Gerald Diduck... "I threw in a few points here and there, but we had such a strong defensive corps at that time that anyone could score.

Babych remembers going to Winnipeg to sign his first contract and being asked by coaching and scouting staff how he felt about going to camp. "I'm nervous, I just hope I make the team," the 19-year old Babych answered. "If you don't make the team, we're all ****ing fired," came the reply.

his hockey career was without much fanfare save the appreciation of coaches for the big and talented defenseman. He showed offensive ability early but as he got older he moved from offensive to stay-at-home...

#38 Canuck of all-time: Dave Babych

Babych, a second-overall pick in the 1980 NHL draft, had been an offensive D-man most of his NHL career but made a successful transition to more of a defensively conscious rearguard in his time in Vancouver. Babych was rock-solid in front of his net but could still blast away with his big shot on the power play. Babych also scored a huge goal in the Canucks’ Game 5 win in New York in the 1994 Stanley Cup final. — Jim Jamieson

The Fan’s Take: Picked up as a big point getter and morphed through the years to a crafty veteran. — Steve May

Babych was a big part of the renovation of the canucks defense to a bigger, nastier group that was undertaken by Pat Quinn...

"Minnesota sweetened the pot just before we picked. They offered me four players off their roster, plus theri 1st round pick. But it was contingent that Babych was available and I had to refuse. He was the guy I wanted." Minnesota was one of seven teams who contacted the Jets about their top pick... Ferguson claimed a player who is cut from the same cloth as Denis Potvin...

Dave Babych, who is bigger and heavier than his sigling, was the 2nd man taken from last summer's talent pool. "He runs the attack from the blueline," said Ferguson. "But he defends well and knows how to use those 205 pounds of his."

Dave Babych's performance this far in October has been as advertised, commendable... In a sense he can fly. At least for a 6'2" defenseman racing up ice. No, not as fast as a speeding bullet, but he can penetrate. Hit? He loves it. In the Jets' dressing room following an early season contest, the lad was chortling with one of his mates while shaving. "Did you see me get him the second time? I really whomped him, didn't I?"

Dr. Ed Enos, a sports medicine researcher and consultant who worked with the Jets in training camp, says Babych is in prime physical form. "Dave is an extremely strong young man, but what is astonishing is his significantly high score in endurance. Usually big men don't score that high in this area because their heart must work hard just to support their big frame."

When Babych takes opposition forwards into the boards, he extracts the variety of exhilaration from the crowd that most players do when they score goals... his passing ability is viewed by many as his prime asset... he consistently confounds his own coach with pinpoint offerings to his mates... suggested in a recent post-game interview, "I still gotta work on my stickhandling... they're so much smarter in the NHL. I haven't played against all the teams, but some of the veterans can make you look sick."

called "the franchise" in Winnipeg... strong offensively, improving defensively... has all the tools: size, speed, strength and a big shot... rated as the best defense prospect since Denis Potvin.

"It's a tough way to get your hockey education," said Babych. "I was given a lot of ice time and I went through a lot. I guess I made every mistake in the book, maybe invented a few new ones. But I learned."... "Babych never got discouraged, never stopped trying, even though he was on the firing line all season," said GM John Ferguson. "It was really an ordeal but it's going to pay off for him - and us."

a very strong skater, he plays as well offensively as he does defensively. Dave is capable of controlling the pace of a game.

He received massive amounts of ice time for a 19-year old rookie. e took chances, trying to arouse a team that at one stage went 30 games without a win... often he was terribly discouraged. Losing grated on his soul... as the cancer of losing spread, he worked harder and carried the puck more. Checkers keyed on him. "Tom McVie started me out playing 40 minutes a game. When you know you're going to play that much, you know they are depending on you so you try that much harder." Repeatedly, his rushes broke down. It was a common, pitiful sight to see Babych drive down the ice, avoiding checks, then cross the blueline and invariably lose the puck. He is still a rushing defenseman, but more often than not, teammates are around to take a pass. Fighting is simply not is bag and his opponents should feel relieved. But when he does fight, the victim is usually the helpless recipient of all his pent up frustrations. Pat Boutette and Pat Hughes can personally attest to his strength and fury. "I don't care for fighting, but if there is a reason it has to be done, I'll do it." ... he is more mature, more relaxed, and correspondingly, more effective.

According to my buddy who was at this game, Babych just went berserk on Boutette. At one point, both linesmen were holding Babych's throwing arm, and he was still connecting with Boutette, whose head was bobbing up and down like a bobblehead. Babych was gigantic, but played like the friendly giant, and everyone was kind of stunned when he finally lost his mind and went ******* on someone.

I was at that game. Boutette kneed a Jet (who never played again), this is what drove Babych insane. He literally lifted Boutette off his skates and used his head like a speed bag. Amazing display of strength and anger. I watched a lot of Jets hockey back in the day and one player who got a lot of room on the ice was Dave Babych and for good reason.

Dave Babych decisive win. was in the building the night this happened....was an oiler fan....Hughes jump started the fight by throwing his gloves up in the air to distract.....that was the last thing he did right....Babych started feeding Hughes heavy shots....Hughes absorbed the blows and tried to duck and turn away but Babych continued to feed him. the refs broke it up and i felt the shots might have come up short but my buddy said Hughes got killed...on the way to the box hughes left side of his face was covered in blood....he suffered a broken nose as well i believe....he looked brutal for the next week. one of the uglier losses i have seen in old Northlands

His gentle nature belies his enormous strength... slow to anger, Babych prefers to reach his ends by more conventional means - skating, stickhandling and shooting... Typical of not so many young defensemen in the NHL, he likes to dash down the ice carrying the puck. When he's given room to shoot, NHL goaltenders brace themselves. "He is one of the hardest shooters in the league," said Don Edwards of the Sabres...

If Babych's importance to the team was ever doubted, it was clearly illustrated three weeks ago. A double ear infection forced him to miss a game. THe Jets looked lost without him. They lacked spark, muscle and drive.

"Losing is something I know all about now. You never want to have it happen again. I never lost any slwwp but it got to the point where you hated to go out in public. People would cut you down." The Winnipeg media disappointed him. "Sure, we set a record. But it seemed like everyone was against us. Radio, TV, newspapers, all of them. It was a losing battle. No one knew what was going on inside our dressing room. When we lost, everybody stayed over on the other side talking to the other team's players."

"Suddenly things began to click for me," says Dave Babych, speaking of his second season. The first had been a nightmare. Babych had to play regularly and was up among the leaders in errors - naturally, because of his inexperience. "I learned because I don;t think there was a costly mistake I didn't make. It wasn't an enjoyable experience but it's paying off now. I'm glad I went through it." Babych has learned how to emply his huge body to control Winnipeg territory and punish the enemy. "I don't see how he can help being one of the very best in the business," says GM John Ferguson. "And I mean real soon."

continued rookie season excellence and seems destined for all-star status. Has it all, size, strength, agility, puckhandling skill... improved defensive play and benefitted from presence of Serge Savard... good bodychecker.

there's a new kid on the block... he's a hulking 21 year old defenseman on the verge of becoming an NHL all-star... he has become the stalwart of the Jets' defense. Often, he plays more than 30 mintues a game... Lately, Babych has demonstrated an ability to control the tempo of his games. His rushes can be darting or slow, measured forays that consume time precious to trailing opponents. Remarkably strong, he is nonetheless polite when he hits. His victims are removed without fanfare or malice while he simultaneously controls the puck. His lack of emotion amazes and frustrates his own fans, who often consider him a ponderous pacifist... "Dave is frequently taken for granted," said Watt. "When he doesn't play at the top of his game, people are critical of him. Because he's a big guy, anything he does that doesn't turn out right is glaringly obvious. I remember Mahovlich went through the same thing in Toronto." Watt believes the system the Jets use is partially responsible for causing Babych to appear unaggressive. "We play a containment type of game. In many cases he is obliged not to go after his man. But he plays the system well and gets his share of hits too. I wouldn't label him a cruncher, but he's incredibly strong, strong enough to edge his man off the puck without making him a part of the boards. His speed belies his size... players as big as he is, usually concede a stride to forwards, but he can show some incredible bursts of speed.

Recently, the Jets had a power play and, as they approached the Vancouver blueline, the puck came free and the Canucks sent Gerry Minor down the ice on a breakaway. Minor had 20 feet on Babych but the big defenseman caught him just inside the Winnipeg blueline. As deftly as possible, Babych reached around Minor and knocked the puck loose. Referee Dave Newell, in a minor oversight, disregarded what was probably the most outstanding play in the game and awarded Babych a hooking penalty. It wasn't Newell's finest moment, but it might have been Babych's.

"It's pretty satisfying," Babych said of going to his first all-star game. "I never watch myself play. I don't know what it is about my game other people like." Perhaps it's his brutish strength, the cannonball shot, his cannonball shot, or his ability to handle the puck. "You're looking at the guy who is going to become the premier defenseman in hockey," said Billy Suther;and, the assistant coach of the Jets... He polled 96 out of a possible 150 points. Only Doug Wilson of Chicago had more (144). But he was far ahead of his nearest challengers, Craig Hartsburg and Paul Coffey... Nicknamed "slug" by his teammates, Babych is the quietest member of the team. He doesn't prod his teammates to work harder. Instead, he tries to compensate for their failing by working harder himself. "I have never seen a player with his stamina," says Sutherland. "The more he plays, the better he is. We have to play him every second shift." Winnipeg fans are gradually being more appreciative of Babych. They know he'll never terrorize opponents with his massive fists or his bone crunching hits. There is nothing abrasive about his game, but heaven help the man who crosses him or a disadvantaged teammate. He can be devastating... Babych has gradually developed into a frontline defenseman. On the ice, he has broken the habit of trying to do everyone's job. Teammates now react to him rather than watch in awe. "I'd say the biggest difference in Dave compared to years past, is the new intensity he has found," says Sutherland. "He is starting to make things happen in his own way." He is an exceptionally strong skater...

"I have learned to hate losing. After my first season, I couldn't bear to lose. It was the dark side of the moon... I think we have a reputation now. When other teams see us, I think they say 'holy smokes, not these guys tonight!' It started last year. Middle of the pack teams expect wins to come to them, upper third teams make wins come to them." ... Babych and Savard have been the workhorses of the Jets' defense, regularly spending 25-30 minutes on the ice each game. "I can't give Babych enough credit," says coach Tom Watt. "The more he plays, the better he gets. Every third shift isn't enough. He demands more ice time and he handles it well."

"It seems my career has been a series of stages. I've finished each stage as best as I could. Right now, I feel I've advanced to a certain stage but it's not the top of the world. I don't feel I'm at the top of my career. All the glory of the NHL hasn't hit me. I don't feel I've conquered the NHL. I want to be the best. When it does happen, I'll feel a great accomplishment."... he has resumed his role on a team he feels can go all the way. "It's nice to hear one of your own players talking so positively," said GM John Ferguson.

Leading the returning crew is Dave Babych, one of the top rearguards in the entire NHL. Despite the fact that he doesn't always play as aggressively as some would like to see, he is the key to the defense, with his steady defensive play and timely offensive thrusts.

Has made steady progress towards all-star status in three seasons... has all the equipment: size, strength, mobility, aggressiveness and offensive skills... has progressed on the attack from 44 to 68 to 74 points in last three seasons.. the QB of the jets powerplay with his strong shot and puckhandling ability...

Coach Tom Watt had this to say about Dave Babych, his 22 year old defense star: "He's one of the eight best defensemen in the NHL and probably the very best of the young ones. The thing that distinguishes him, in my opinion, is his incredible strength, enough to edge a man off the puck or fend off a check while making an offensive play."...Babych adds, "I can't say too much about what Serge Savard did for us in the season and a half he spent here. He taught me so much, but maybe how to control a game was the most important thing. He understood about tempo - when to go and when to stay, when to slow down and when to speed up, how to avoid wasting time and energy. I could learn from just watching him, so imagine the effect of actually playing alongside him,"

His battle cry was a yawn as Dave Babych slipped deeper into an abyss of slumber... the crowd was low and grouchy. The din of grumblings made him even more lethargic. Impassively, he watched Greg Malone take three point blank shots on Doug Soetart for the Whalers' second goal. For their third, by Doug Sulliman, he had handed a pass... a power play goal by Tim Young reduced teh margin to one. Suddenly, Babych awoke. A tremendous center ice hit on Mike Crombeen brought the crowd to life. "It was one of those games where someone should have just clunked me on the head and I'd have been alright. That hit. I needed that. It woke me up a bit." Dale Hawerchuk scored on a brilliant individual effort... 44 seconds later, the Jets and crowd were celebrating as Babych banked a shot off the pads of Eddie Staniowski for the winning goal... Hawerchuk rushed to the defense of his teammate. He was wronged, he insisted, by the complaining crowd. "The thing that gets me is that people were booing us but, let's face it, their goalie was making some big saves. They were on Babych. Maybe he made a bad play or two but our fans should realize that teams are always throwing the puck in his corner because he's out there so much. They are trying to play him out. It's not as if he isn't trying." What Hawerchuk said was true, but he must admit that Babych does lose his concentration some nights. When he does, the Jets suffer... Babych is not uniqur. Like his teammates, he does become uninspired when a goaltender keeps them down. Feeling cheated, they doze... defense is a team thing. Laying the blame on Babych or Hayward is grossly unfair. As a group, the Jets are one of the weakest defensive teams in the league.

The Dave Babych project began to return some important dividends last season... he was raw and inexperienced when thrown into NHL combat in 1980... the Jets couldn't afford to wait. He would make a mistake, suffer the consequences and know enough to avoid it in the future. "I thought he finally made the breakthrough as a top NHL defenseman," GM John Ferguson declared. "He was the dominant figure on the ice in a lot of games. He's a finished product and the beautiful angle is that he's only 23."

Has all the equipment - size, skating ability, puckhandling, shot and aggressiveness - to be an all-star... splendid on the PP... has logged heavy load of icetime in first four seasons.

One of Jim Nill's assignments as a member of the Bruins was to bug Dave babych. "Pin him," coach Cheevers would say. Dutifully, Nill would try. Every shift he would remind himself to crash into the corners where Babych lurked. "Wearin' him down?" Cheevers would ask, looking down at the panting, red-faced Nill. "I'm trying, I'm trying. But really, all I think I'm doing is waking him up."

"I don't think he knows how much he hurts. He might be the strongest player in the league."... The Babych story has always been one of phenomenal strength, enormous talent and passive nature... noted by the media for his lack of emotion, he is described by his roommate as a man who grieved as rumours swirled of his imminent departure from the Jets. "The trade rumours really bothered him," says Dave Ellett. "They were so strong he thought for sure he was going. Anyone would have been disturbed to hear them. "

Barry Long adds "as strong as David is, he is not a tough person. It hurts him to think that he has not been able to live up to the expectations some people have had for him. He is soft in that respect."

(earlier on) his play suffered. Loathe to hit a soul, he played carefully as his +/- statistics fell sharply. "I think it bothered everybody else but me. It is a stat, I agree. But you should look deeper when you judge a player." Lately, Babych has excited Winnipeg fans with some thundering hits, two of which flattened Bob Gainey and another which rocked Dave Fenyves. "It seems as if Winnipeg fans are sitting back, waiting for him to stir them," says Bowness. "When he does, it's unbelievable".

The Jets felt they had acquired a superstar of the future... he seemed to possess all the proper ingredients. He was big and strong. He patrolled his own zone efficiently. His offensive skills were exceptional. It would no tbe harsh to label Babych, now 24, as just a tad disappointing.

did not have an overly consistent 1984-85 season... some winnipeg fans booed his play... despite subpar all-around season, he still led Jets' defensemen in scoring... biggest problem was his play in Jets' defensive zone... a hard hitter on defense... strongest part of game is generating offense by leading rush and firing shots from the blue line... has good leadership qualities... skilled at making PP click.

two players, popular among their teammates, but bothered by taunting fans, are starting over in new cities... what isn't easily understood is the logic behind trading a key defenseman by a team that has been woeful defensively... Coach Barry Long was less than enthusiastic when the trade was made. "We fill one hole and create another. I have nothing against Ray Neufeld. He'll try to make us a better hockey team. He's not going to replace Dave Babych."

"I've watched Babych a lot," says Emile Francis. "We played in the same division for two years and we met in the playoffs. He's big, strong and can really move the puck... he's averaged around 250 shots a season and he's got a good, low one. He's what I call a wheelhouse of a defenseman.

"There's no question that I felt some pressure in Winnipeg. To me, you build a franchise piece by piece. I'm only one of 20 guys. We're all human beings, we're not machines. The first person you have to please is yourself. If you're happy with what you're doing, the rest will take care of itself. I don;t feel like I've got to apologize for the way I've played the last five years." ...onlookers said that Babych nearly wept in an emotionally-charged scene in the Jets' dressing room... babych, who logged a tremendous amount of ice time with Winnipeg, will do the same for Hartford. In addition to taking a regular shift, he is being used on the point on the power play as well as in shorthanded situations. "It's very comforting knowing he's back there," Kevin Dineen said. "Ever since we got Dave Babych, the puck doesn't seem to be in our end as much," Torrie Robertson said. Babych is no rookie, he understands the game.

"I'm not happy with the way I'm playing. The team is not functioning as a team and I attribute a lot of that to myself."... although applying any more than 1/20th of the blame to Babych, considering his 30+ minutes each game, is ludicrous, the numbers bear out his assessment. When the Whalers were 26-20-1, Babych was +9. Now at 28-3-2, Babych stood at -7. "Overall, his play has fallen off some since he first came here," said coach Jack Evans. "In fairness, he's been playing with a pulled muscle in his hip." Without Babych, the Whalers were 8-10-0. With him, they went to 18-10-1...

"I'd been in Winnipeg for five years. We had just beaten St. Louis and everybody was happy. Barry Long came to me and said 'Babs, you're gone.' He had such a serious look on his face that I knew he wasn't joking. It was just something that had to be done, I guess. The jets figured that they had to have a big right winger and ther had to give up something to get something." The reaction to the trade in Hartford was basic euphoria. Neufeld, despite an honest nightly effort, had fallen out of favour with Whalers fans, and babych, at 24, was viewed as the offensive defenseman the club desperately needed. At the time, Emile Francis was hailed as a genius, while John Ferguson was hailed as something along the lines of a putz.

Naming Babych captain in Francis' stead was Evans' decision, and he stands by it. "Dave was our best player at the time. He was on the ice for 35 to 40 minutes a game, and was scoring a point a game for us. His physical size and presence made him the logical choice... he came into a difficult situation. It's different being captain when things are going well and when they're not. He's handled it very well. "

"I'm not sorry they gave it to me," Babych said. "Not that I don't have my own problems, but being captain helps me to put those problems in the back of my mind. Hopefully that's where they'll stay."

Acquired by Whalers in what was considered a desperation trade by Jets... team was tailspinning and later regretted the move... had fallen out of favour with Jets, where fans booed him for his inconsistent work in defensive zone, although he finished strongly in his final season there... very strong and has a very heavy shot...

Babych is a good skater, able to put his speed to work when he carries the puck out of the Whaler zone. Babych rushes the puck well and likes to do so, and he has the speed to get into the opposing zone and create a play. He also has the speed to get back if necessary and that allows him to go deep into the slot, a place he likes to shoot from. Babych has a good view of the ice and good anticipation and that means he can use his teammates well. He sees the openings as they develop and he has either the speed to jump into the opening himself for a give-and-go, or the hand skills to get an accurate and soft pass to a teammate. Babych likes to shoot the puck if he has an opportunity and he'll blast away from the point or move into the circle if he can. Babych switches points on the PP and is frequently teamed with Mike McEwen. He reads the rush into his zone just as well and easily forces men wide of the net by playing his angles well. Babych also has the speed to break up a play, say a two-on-one, by getting his stick or skate on the puck and then can wheel up-ice immediately, turning the defensive play into an offensive opportunity. Babych is not fooled too often.

Babych can play a physical style of game, though his skills are in the finesse part of the game. He is good about tying up the man in front of the net, even if he doesn't clear him out of the crease completely, and Babych is also good along the boards, where he can take a puck in one motion and start a play, even while being harrassed. Babych will give up the puck if persistently checked, but that happens because he's playing with less talented, slower, more mistake prone defensive partners and Dave is hesitant about giving the puck to them. So when the forechecking has finally closed in on him, and his teammates still haven't gotten open, Babych ends up giving the puck away by default as he tries to force a play. Babych gives the Whalers a legitimate threat on the blueline, something they've never had before. He immediately energized their defensive corps and ended up scoring a huge goal in the playoffs, one that gave them a tie in game 7 of the Adams championship against Montreal. Though the Whalers lost in OT, the goal was a clutch one and the Whalers are hoping for more of the same... he has become the Whalers' best defenseman.

Last year, Dave Babych was something of a saviour for the Hartford Whalers. He arrived in November and almost singlehandedly showed Hartford's immobile defense corps how to move the puck. The defense became an integral part of the offense, and Hartford's goal output improved dramatically. Babych was a leading factor in the Whalers' rise to prominence and earned the team's most valuable defenseman award... if he wasn't a bona fide NHL all-star, he was close. The trade made headlines. The hockey world almost universally agreed that Babych was a far superior player to Neufeld and that feeling in large part led to Emile Francis winning THN executive of the year honours...

The Babych scenario this year has taken on a far different look this year. "I'll tell you, it's been a brutal year. It's just been one thing after another... I don't think I've made a point to anyone yet. I still want to prove myself."

To his credit, Babych has tried to remain positive despite 1) a hip injury that still causes him pain, 2) a separation from his wife, and 3) the threatened suspension and subsequent demotion of his brother Wayne...

inspiration to teammates... played the 7th game of the 1986 Adams finals with an injured groin and a pulled hip muscle... both injuries carried into last season... Acquisition from Winnipeg in November 1985 stands as Emile Francis' finest deal in Hartford... despite his size, he is an unassuming, gentle person.

Because of his skill at handling the puck, especially in traffic, he rushes the puck well... his skills do not necessarily translate into his defensive game. Babych is still weak in his end on an all too consistent basis. He will make poor passes because he does not practice patience and he does not examine his options before passing and that leads to turnovers... though his skills are in the finesse area, Babych has the attributes to play a physical style... he allows his checks to sneak back into the play, so he could improve his takeouts... on the whole, he plays no better than a fair physical contest though he has the tools to play a good one... his second year in Hartford revealed some defensive zone flaws... Babych must play with more poise, and he must play a more effective physical game in order to rebound from last year's disappointing season.

Babych has long had good skating skills, but time and injury are beginning to take their toll. Dave still has good speed as he carries the puck up-ice, but the rust is starting to show in his quickness, foot speed and turns. He's a little slower getting back to the defensive zone after challenging in the offensive zone than in previous years, and he's a little slower making his turns toward the opposition in the defensive zone. Still, Babych does rush the puck well most of the time, and he uses the speed he does have to create plays in the offensive zone. That skill is particularly valuable on the power play where Dave is the general of Hartford's offense. He combines his skating with good puckhandling skills and is especially effective in traffic. Dave uses his teammates very well because of his good vision and anticipation. He sees the openings as they develop and skims an accurate and soft pass to a teammate... he is primarily a finesse player with size. He is inconsistent in his attempts at clearing the front of the net... can start a play while being harrassed... has always been a pretty much one-dimensional player, but even that dimension is slipping away from him as he ages. Injuries and durability are also questions...

Babych is a good skater in terms of straightaway forward movement, but he's slowing up in other areas. He retains some good speed as he rushes from the Hartford zone, but in the areas of agility he's less sure. That means the opposition may get that extra space to slide inside him, or that extra second to make a play from the corner... his decreasing quickness means loose pucks once snared may now be lost - or an opening once recognized may be closed before the puck gets through it. He passes well, but he likes to shoot... his defensive game has never been better than fair, sometimes poor, and it remains so. He lacks patience in passing from the defensive zone and that leads to turnovers...

He has a very heavy shot from the point. A very courageous individual.

Babych is not as effective as he once was, but he's still an excellent defenseman... one of the league's best point men on the power play.

Long known as a smooth and talented skater, Babych is slowing up in the agility and one-step quickness areas, making him moer vulnerable to opposition attempts to cut inside him or gain loose pucks. He retains a good degree of his forward and back mobility and can join rushes but seldom does so. He has never been strong at gap control, and his decreasing agility hasn't helped. He plays defense reactively, rather than actively. He still uses his speed as a weapon in the offensive area of the game, where he can create and execute plays based on skating, puck moving and space; he is still Hartford's PP general...he's never been a big hitter and he's never going to be a big hitter... inconsistent in his use of his size clearing the net or taking men off the puck, two aspects of defensive play he's not real interested in... he's a one-dimensional, aging hockey player saved by dismissal by the fact that no other Hartford defenseman has come to the offensive fore. He doesn't really want to be cast in a leadership role of any sort and the fact that he doesn't play with intensity in every game demonstrates that.

hopes to bounce back strong this season after an injury-filled 90-91... a good skater and puckhandler, Dave has always done well on the PP...

Babych knows the game, knows the position, understands the situations, so he keeps things simple and gets the job done. He has almost no speed, but he has a good touch with the puck. babych can make a sharp first pass out of the zone, and while there are certain games when he seems not to join the rush at all, there are also certain games when he jumps eagerly into the play. He won't accept a drop pass and drive to the net for a fake, more, he will shoot off the pass to create a rebound or will make a return pass. Babych has a heavy, Denis Potvin-style wrist shot from the point. It can be tricky and can create rebounds, thereby producing a significant percentage of his assists... Babych hits hard - he is strong as an oak tree in front of the net - but he's not mean about it. He uses his strength the way Larry Robinson did in the late stages of his career, keeping a guy pinned to the glass, preventing him from getting back into the play first, gaining body position rather than putting an opponent in the third row of seats... Babych was one of Vancouver's best defensemen in the playoffs. He enjoys the competition and met it well. He is not an "old" 31 and has some playing time left.

the steady veteran defender was an important part of the Hartford Whalers and added experience to the Canucks blueline corps. He's a smooth skater who knows all the angles - he prefers steering opposing forwards away from the net to bowling them over.

Dave made a strong comeback after playing just 8 games the previous season... he was instrumental in leading the canucks to one of the NHL's best records. A fine puckhandler with a powerful shot, Dave has always performed exceptionally well on the power play.

Babych has gone on to become the veteran leader of the Canucks.

picks his spots offensively... using some of his deceptive moves, he can avoif a check at the last second and leave an attacker looking foolish... has some playing time left in the correctly chosen spots.

A big, strong player with lots of smarts in every facet of the game, Babych has always had a reputation for his leadership and steady play, although he's never garnered the superstar accolates that were predicted... has always been a talented playmaking defenseman... age is certainly working against him... when many thought he was "over the hill" after missing so much of 1990-91, he proved he still had some excellent hockey left in him. He is the senior defenseman on a Vancouver backline that has everything - size, strength, offensive ability, toughness and a commitment to keeping the opposition off balance. Babych may not be hall of fame material, but he has certainly lived up to the expectations he brought from his junior days.

WILL - provide steady D
CAN'T - play forever
EXPECT - unspectacular leadership
DON'T EXPECT - flash

It seems like Babych has been in this league since the beginning of time. He has been a steadying influence on this defense and has learned to adjust his play according to his limitations.

The 36-year old didn't do any worse than the others, but is getting old and has lost a step despite staying in top shape

Babych was as popular in the Jets' locker room as he was with Winnipeg's fans... the prototypical puck moving defenseman whose sweet passes keyed the Jets' offense.

 

[seventieslord]

Garry Unger, C

- 5'11", 170 lbs
- Top-20 in goals 6 times (2nd, 6th, 12th, 14th, 15th, 16th)
- Top-21 in points 5 times (17th, 18th, 20th, 21st, 21st)
- Best VsX scores (70s system): 85, 80, 79, 70, 67, 66, 66
- Placed 5th, 5th, 8th in center all-star voting
- Played in 7 NHL all-star games (1972, 1973, 1974, 1975, 1976, 1977)
- Played in 914 consecutive games, setting an NHL record
- Led team in scoring by margins of 8, 18, 32, 14, 14, and 11 points (1971, 1972, 1973, 1974, 1975, 1977)
- In his 10-year prime, scored 0.85 PPG with players who averaged 0.52 themselves

Unger was also a tremendous center - he wasn't in the lineup for no reason.

In 1971 the Wings had an old school coach named Ned Harkness. In some ways he was the epitome of the later day Mike Keenan, a strict authoritarian who would make unreasonable demands, but without Keenan's success.

Harkness and Unger clashed almost immediately. Unger, who scored 42 goals as a sophomore in 1969-70, had a somewhat misplaced reputation as a playboy. He was good looking with rosy cheeks, and he wore colorful clothes. His signature had to be his shoulder length blonde hair. He was known to use a hair dryer as much as a hockey blade torch. And hey it must have worked, as he was dating Miss America in 1970.

It may have been the 70s, but Harkness would have none of this. He ordered all of his players to get crew-cuts. Unger refused, and on February 6th, 1971 he, Tim Ecclestone and Wayne Connelly were traded to St. Louis in exchange for expansion scoring star Red Berenson. It turned out to be a terrible trade for the Wings... Unger erupted in St. Louis. In each of his 8 seasons as Mr. Blue he scored at least 30 goals. Year-in and year-out he would lead the Blues in most offensive categories.

Of course Unger also became known as Mr. Ironman. Unger never missed a game until December 22, 1979, then playing with the Atlanta Flames. He participated in 914 consecutive NHL games, breaking Andy Hebenton's record of 630 games in the process. The ironman record has since been upped to 964 games by Doug Jarvis.

Unger said :...back then it was difficult for me to complain about a sore ankle or leg when I knew that in two weeks it was going to fine, yet my sister was never going to be able to walk again.” His sister suffered from polio, but despite that she “could be so peaceful and happy with her life despite the fact that she couldn’t walk.”

Unger also tamed his playboy image while in St. Louis, too.

It was to have been a glorious career for Garry Unger in Detroit. In some ways, he could have been an early day Steve Yzerman. All the ingredients were there – speed, radar-shot, smarts, and drive.

Rarely in recent years have the Red Wings picked up an excellent young player in a trade, usually it's the other way around... but now, it appears, the Wings have struck a gold mine. It's dangerous to go overboard on a 20-year old player but Garry Unger has been something else for the Red Wings - unbelievable... it would be easy to dismiss the young center's work with the wings as expected, after all, he's playing between Mahovlich and Howe. That is, it would be easy if you hadn't seen Unger play.

"There's nothing he can't do," praised Howe, "shoot, check and make the plays. And when you tell him something, he listens - that's rare these days... he's more aggressive than anyone I've played with recently."

Unger makes eye-popping plays look simple... he poked the puck away from Dallas Smith, went around him from the right wing - Unger shoots left - and beat Cheevers with a backhand. "He was a real pro on that play," Howe said. "He showed me about four moves on one play. He gave Smith a little change of pace and you don't expect to see that in a youngster. Then he made a helluva play to get the goal."

"And he's a funny guy. The writers are always asking him about playing between Frank and myself so he told one guy it'd be all right 'if they learn to put the puck in the net.'"

In his season closing stint with Detroit he showed the same kind of poise Bobby Orr had as a rookie last season... he was so good that Wing followes found it hard to believe... Unger's puck sense with the Wings was uncanny. While it certainly was a great break to play with Mahovlich and Howe, he made many of the plays that resulted in goals strictly on his own perseverance. He has a knack for threading his way through traffic and keeping or picking up the puck.

The one player Detroit insisted on in trade negotiations with Toronto was Garry Unger... Leafs hated to let him go but finally agreed... "I think he's got a great future ahead of him in hockey," Imlach said at the time of the deal, "but we've got to give up that tremendous potential to get the immediate help a proven star like Norm Ullman can give us."

When Unger went goalless for six games in December he did what hockey players have done since time immemorial - he switched sticks. He went straight. "I'd been using a Norm Ullman stick with a bend in it. But I've been having trouble with the puck on my backhand." The night he switched sticks he scored three goals. "I can't believe those goals," Unger said. Two of them were backhanders and the third was a perfectly placed, low, 35 foot slapshot... Unger's success with the straight stick isn't likely to send Esposito, Mikta or the other hook stick generation to the bonfires but it's interesting that a number of the league's top slot men, who need the backhand pass, do use straight sticks.

Unger turns on the younger generation, especially the female portion. Murray Oliver did, too, when he was a youngster, and Pit Martin did to a greater degree, but neither had the following Unger has... Unger is the freshest thing that's happened to Red Wing hockey in years... it also helps that he plays the game exceedingly well, and that instead of reaching a plateau and staying there as some phenoms have in the past, he is getting better... Recently Abel chastized Unger and his linemates for their defensive record. The line led the team in scoring but it was giving up big goals, too... Abel worked the unit hard during the week and in the next game it didn't give up a goal, and scored three. "He's still growing," Abel said. "He has strong legs and wrists but he hasn't filled out yet and when he does, he'll be stronger." Right now Wing defenseman Bob Baun says Unger is exceptionally tough to knock down in front of the net - "he's strong on his skates," is the way Baun puts it. There are some players who seem born to their skates and Unger is one. He works the puck with his skates as easily as he works it with his stick... this season he's mixing up his shots and really seems to do better with the wrist shot.

Hockey men have been telling us for some seasons now that Unger was really something, but two years ago Toronto traded him to Detroit in a deal that now has the Leafs in last place and the Wings fighting for first. When the deal was made, Abel said, "Unger is the sleeper, he's going to be one of the great ones." Now he says, "Unger's getting great." Aide Baz Bastien said, "next year will be the real test, but he's showing something. He doesn't slap the puck. He's got the good wrist shot. Boom, it's gone." Bill Gadsby said, "He's strong. You can't knock him down. He can handle the puck and shoot it quick."

Detroit officials were deeply concerned about Garry Unger at training camp a year ago. The precocious young center had scored only 1 goal in 11 early matches. But they needn't have worried. Unger knew what he was doing. He decided he'd burnt up his energy and enthusiasm in the first part of the 1968-69 season, and now he was pacing himself carefully. "I could have gone harder, but my weight was down close to where I wanted it. My idea was to save myself so I wouldn't run out of gas in February like I did the year before."... Unger popped in 42 goals, Detroit's best total... Sid Abel adds, "he'll improve as he gets stronger." Unger agrees, saying "experience makes a difference. I'm not chasing the puck all over the ice like before. I'm learning to play my position."

A tremendous stickhandler.

The fact that 42-goal scorer Garry Unger was acquired in the trade for Berenson was of little immediate consolation to Blues fans... Blues GM Scotty Bowman was prepared for the fans' reaction and he made it very clear that the reason for the trade was that the Blues really wanted Unger. "Unger is rated by almost everyone in the league as one of the top three young players in hockey," Bowman said.

Garry Unger has become an instant favourite of the hockey fans in St. Louis...the first time he stepped on the ice he received a hearty cheer, and the flashy young center has been skating and playing hard in an attempt to be worthy of his new adulation. When he joined, he had to be good. He was replacing Red Berenson, the Blues' captain and high scorer who had led them out of the darkeness to three straight finals appearances... Unger acknowledges that he readily felt the pressure attached to the job of replacing the traded favourite... "I think I'm getting used to playing with the guys. St. Louis is different, but the game is still the same - skate, shoot, up and down the ice." St. Louis coach/GM Scotty Bowman, called Unger "my kind of hockey player. He works hard, that's what I like. He doesn't look around for anything, he knows the shortest distance to the net is a straight line."

"It's not often you get a chance to acquire a man you can build a club around. I'd have never considered trading Berenson otherwise," Bowman said at the time of the trade.

Unger eventually captivated the Blues' supporters with his hustle and goal scoring... and he proved he's a battler by totalling 104 minutes in penalties.

Garry is the type of player you can build a team around," claimed St. Louis when they traded for him last season. A smooth skating blond center, Garry recovered from a back injury at the start of 70-71.

Garry's mod styles and long blond hair have made him a big favourite with young St. Louis fans. He's considered one of the key men in the development of a Stanley Cup winner.

Has twice been traded in deals involving superstars and both times he has been a key factor in the deals...First Detroit wouldn't make the Frank Mahovlich deal unless he was included, then St. Louis demanded him in exchange for Red Berenson...

The Red Baron was the Blues' #1 player at the time, but there was never any question about jumping at the opportunity when Unger was made available. "Here was a 23 year old kid, just learning to play hockey, who wasn't far off from being the best center in the league," says Bowman,

Garry Unger is living up to the extravagant predictions made about him when he broke into the NHL as a teenaged wonder five years ago... he currently has a streak of more than 350 consecutive games - more than any player now in the NHL. "I've got a pretty good pain tolerance and I've been lucky with injuries. I'll have to have a cast on my leg before I miss a game. The closest I came to missing one was two years ago in Minnesota in the playoffs. I had about seven injuries but I played.

The Blackhawks made sure they stopped the Blues' scoring my concentrating on Garry Unger... Coach Billy Reay said "he scored almost twice as many goals as anyone else on their team in the regular season, so when you stop him, you pretty well stop the Blues."

The NHLPA is liable to revoke Unger's membership if the executive gets wind of what he said last season: "I'd play this game for nothing because I'm doing what I really want to do. Not many people are in that position." As a matter of fact, he is rewarded very handily by the Blues, and he deserves every penny.

Currently the NHL's "iron man"... he is the leader of the St. Louis offensive game. An expert when the Blues have a man advantage.

Smooth, flashy center with a hard shot who doesn't shy away from rough play...

since shifting to St. Louis, he has matured and altered. He is still a big goal scorer, he still reads praise of his play and hears cheers, he still dates pretty girls, but he seems to have settled down...

The West won the game 6-4 on the strength of a five goal splurge in the 2nd and 3rd periods. Garry Unger, a key man in the five-goal binge, was named the MVP. He combined with Stan Mikita and bobby Clarke to turn the game around... Unger salted the game away with a shorthanded goal.

Unger may be at LW for the coming season... he has been a center for as long as he has been able to skate... but Unger played spectacularly at left wing and was named the all-star game's MVP... Angotti speaks of the team'sneed for a husky winger to get the puck to Unger. Garry is basically a scoring c enter, and Angotti wanted him in front of the net. But the job of carrying the puck frequently falls to Unger because he does it better than others... so Angotti may decide to put unger on left wing.

"It was the greatest thrill of my career" when Garry Unger was named the outstanding performer at last winter's all-star game. He had a goal and an assist playing against the best centers from the east...He also scored his 200th goal midway through his 7th season. That's a pretty good rate and what's even more impressive is that Unger has averaged 37 goals a year since becoming a Blues regular. "I think it's an achievement and I'm proud of it, but I'd sooner regard it as a passing point because I certainly want to go on to better things."

...he was just becoming a star in Detroit when the Wings hired a new coach, Ned Harkness, a stern taskmaster from the college ranks. Harkness ordered Garry to cut his shoulder length hair and Unger refused, one of the reasons Harkness traded him. "The length of a guy's hair has nothing to do with the way he plays hockey," Unger says... the ardent St. Louis fans had reason to resent Unger. But after he scored his first St. Louis goal, he flipped the puck over the boards to a little boy at rinkside and won the hearts of reluctant fans... after seven seasons, he was established as a star. He might have been better defensively, and he might have passed more and shot less. But fans loved him for his super shooting. "I never worry about goals. They've always come easy to me. I can never score too many. Every one is a thrill."

...remembering that as a boy he had once chased Gordie Howe down the street, then was too scared to say anything when he caught up to him, Garry would stand for an hour signing autographs with the shy ones...

Garry has reached superstar status in the NHL... he's also a powerplay specialist.

NHL Correspondents' Poll
MOST NATURAL TALENT
...5. Bobby Clarke, 4 pts
6. Yvan Cournoyer, 4 pts
7. Brad Park, 3 pts
8. Garry Unger, 2 pts

MOST COLORFUL PLAYER
...7. Gilbert Perreault, 5 pts
8. Phil Esposito, 5 pts
9. Garry Unger, first place vote

Blues' most glamorous player is also their best... says image of "swinger" is overblown... smooth skater who shoots more than most centers.

Coach Lou Angotti is insisting that his men play a skating, defensive style of play, and there is no place for those who don't conform. Unger remains the team's flashiest star, and the Blues need him now perhaps more than ever... "I'm not handling the puck as much as I used to, but we've got a good basic system and the guys have a better idea of what to do."

he can't stand to watch his team play without him. When Unger was held out of an exhibition game before this season, he reported to the arena but during the contest couldn't tolerate being a spectator... "I've been healthy. You would think that over the span of time the law of averages would catch up. But I've played some games in which I was sick, and our trainer has managed to get me into some games that I wouldn't have made without him... one injury that could have stopped the streak was when I was with Detroit with a nasty cut across the eye that required 17 stitches. I played with one eye in Boston, and you can bet I got hit a few times that night."... Unger believes in doing well whatever he is doing, and he approaches his job of playing hockey with serious intentions. He is seldom guilty of a lackadaisical effort on the ice, and his strenuous efforts are an example to his teammates and to all hockey players.. the first requirement for contributing on the ice is to be in the lineup, to answer the bell for every game. Unger has answered the bell for more than 500 straight games, and no player currently in the NHL has contributed more to his team in that respect.

the respected elder statesman of St. Louis hockey... "for the first time, we've got depth," said Unger. "I'm not handling the puck as much as I used to. That proves we've got better balance now."

over the eight years needed to set the record Unger has been lucky to avoid serious injury and has played with a variety of minor injuries... "There have been times when I've had a bad cold or the flu," Unger said. "But I feel better after playing a game than I would feel if I sat out."... Unger has the type of personality and motivation that allows him to play despite minor aggravations.... "I don't like to miss any game at any time, whether there's a record involved or not. It's going to have to be a good injury to keep me out. I'd want to play every game even if I had a streak of only two in a row."

Unger is aware of his scoring prowess but he tries to maintain a workmanlike perspective of his accomplishments...

if the streak does not die, this determined and durable player will match Andy Hebenton's record of 630 games... Unger, who is not big, but tough, admits, "I've not been benched or had the kind of broken bones or torn knees that would have made it impossible to play. Hopefully, I never will, but you never know. But I have played with injuries... I had to have 17 stitches to close a cut above my eye, the eye swelled shut and if I'd had to play that night, I could not have. I had to play the next night and I did. If the coach had known I couldn't see out of it, he wouldn't have let me play, but he didn't ask and I didn't tell him."

"If I can play, I will. It's my nature. I don't like to let the little things that happen in life to upset my life. I never have. I don't think I missed a day of school in my life. I wasn't always feeling well, but I went. I don't always feel well these days, but I play. If I have the flu, I try to forget it. I've played with the flu. I feel lousy before the game. but once the game begins I forget it. I concentrate so hard on the game that I don't think about how I feel. As soon as the game is over I feel lousy again."

"Hockey players are generally brought up to play in pain... I've only had about 50 stitches. I still have all my teeth. Everyone goes on, so do you. None of us finds anything unusual in it..."

"The length of my hair had nothing to do with the way I play. I played hard and I played well in Detroit. I didn't deserve to be treated like a baby. I wasn't the only unhappy player there. There were a lot of other things he did that made many of us miserable... Here in St. Louis I have been happy and have regained my love of the game... As I near the record, I try not to think about it. I don't want to play when I'm hurt so I'll hurt the team. Winning matters more than any record. I don't ever want to make a token appearance just to keep the streak going. It would be a temptation I wouldn't want to give into. I play because I like it and it pays well."

"I guess reflexes have something to do with being able to set such a record. I don't get hit much - I never have. I've been very lucky with injuries." Unger has had some injuries that could have kept him out but didn't... the consecutive game record would be a point of justifiable pride for Unger. He would enjoy the kind of distinction it would give him as one of the durable warriors of hockey. "A lot of people thought I wasn't serious about hockey when I came into this league. I was young and somewhat different from the older guys who made up the team. They didn't know how much I wanted to play. I'd say to someone that I didn't think about hockey 24 hours a day, and other guys thought I wasn't serious about the game. Now they know I'm serious about hockey. And my attitude wouldn't change depending on whether I had this streak or not. That's not the way I work." Indeed, Unger has earned the right to be called a serious hockey player. Those who watch him regularly can attest to his efforts on the ice. His competitiveness is an example for many.

...in the case of Garry Unger, who has established the all-time consecutive games mark with 633, it is a feat unequalled in NHL annals, expansion or no expansion. "Unger's mark was more difficult to attain than the previous mark," stated Andy Hebenton, the previous record holder. Hebenton said that the travelling involved today makes it tougher for a player to maintain a long streak. "When I had my streak the longest we had to travel was to Chicago and we didn't have the concentration of games in the schedule. There are also more pileups around the goal now, and therefore it is more dangerous for a high goal scorer such as Unger who is often involved in the pushing and shoving in front of the net."

Of all the honors heaped upon Gary Unger when be broke the consecutive game record, the one he cherishes the most is a gift from his St. Louis teammates. "That is the greatest honor a guy can receive - recognition by his teammates." Unger received a beautiful western style saddle and said it would fit nicely on a horse named Dynamite... "the record was underplayed by me before I reached it because that's the way I do things, and I didn't want to take away from doing my job. But it ended up being a bigger thrill than I thought it would be... my job is to play hockey. When I've been hurt I've played. That's what I put my mind to do, and that's what I've done."

the NHL's new iron man is 28-year old Garry Unger, who has played in 643 successive league games. "Normally, it would be a meaningless record," says Blues VP Lynn Patrick. "But in Unger's case, it does mean something. This guy is not a cautious player. He is aggressive and takes chances. he hits. He never protects himself and he goes on playing when he's hurt. So when he goes year after year without ever missing a game, it is truly remarkable."

Unger's scoring always has been predictably consistent, nearly as consistent as him answering the bell for each game... Unger's remarkable consistency over the years plus his obvious durability takes some of the speculation out of projecting his eventual accomplishments...

considering the NHL's crowded schedule and all the travelling teams do today, his ironman streak is probably the most remarkable in the book. "What's amazing about it to me is that Unger is a tough, aggressive player," says Francis. "He's not one of those guys who avoide trouble. He hits people. He takes them on. It's surprising he's never been hurt."

"There havebeen times when I was hurt and could have begged off from playing but I've never been one to give up easily," he says... smooth, graceful skater... doesn't shy away from rough going in corners and long boards... was relieved of role as Blues' captain late last season... "The weight of being captain was a burden that affected his play," says Emile Francis.

The record probably won't get much attention until Unger's string is broken, and apparently that won't happen until he retires... the record remains a tribute to the man - to his spirit and pride over the full 10 years of his career. He celebrated his 30th birthday with nary a signal he is close to leaving the prime of his athletic life... Unger's record is a bright spot in the dismal season of the Blues... Unger, expected to be the team's top scorer, is behind his usual pace and was asked to analyze the team's problems. "There's a lack of confidence. We have to decide winning is better than losing. Losing can be a habit and it gets too easy to lose. You start second-guessing yourself. As soon as the other team scores a goal, you say, 'well, that's it. we'll probably lose again.'... We're trying to ice the puck instead of make the play. We're giving the puck to a guy when he's checked rather than having the confidence of holding it yourself. And we're not shooting... more than half the goals scored are luck, but you can't score if you don't shoot on the net." Unger is frustrated by the way the Blues' season has gone. Ideally he could lead them to a more respectable record but he says he feels helpless. "All I can do is work as hard as I can and maybe give everybody a lift. You can talk all you want, but the real work has to be done on the ice. I'm not a talker, not a rah-rah guy in the dressing room. Sometimes you talk, and it doesn't mean anything." The Blues need more than Garry Unger to be successful. But with the way the team is constituted, they hardly can be successful without a heavy contribution from Unger.

During spring and summer Unger tends to think more about his NHL record of consecutive games. There is satisfaction in knowing your endurance is better than anybody else who ever played major league hockey... Unger takes pride in the fact the streak does not include any token appearances. At times when he has been hurt he has played a full shift. He has a high tolerance for pain and considered his streak a part of his job.

It's more than a decade since Garry Unger started to play in the NHL and he still hasn't missed a game... "It's enormously frustrating to me that I've never won any kind of championship, and now we've begun another rebuild. I'm 30 and I don't have that many more years left. I'm getting worried... It's possible that I'd consider a move. I care about St. Louis but hockey is my business and I have to do some very serious thinking." Unger's experience as a key center with Team Canada in the 1978 world championships affected his outlook. "Playing with a club that had a genuine hope of winning something if it played its best was a very refreshing experience. What we've been running into in St. Louis has been the knowledge that no matter what we do we can't win."

plays hurt and doesn't complain...despite rough, aggressive style, he's a softspoken guy.

"I'm never going to get so depressed over losing that it ruins my life... life is too short for that. But last year was the worst, and there's no way you want to go through that again. You have to be optimistic going into a year, but you also have to realize that you are 30 years old and that the club is just starting to build back up again. It's going to be a while before it's a winner again. It makes you think."

"Six years ago I signed the contract, and after three years, with all that was going on, it was obsolete. What I'm making now is probably only arond the middle of the league. I don't want to say what it is, but it's low. I don't believe, though, in going in and trying to renegotiate. A contract is a contract. And I don't believe in starting a season by saying 'I gotta get out of here'. It's just not right. I'll play as hard as I can and see what happens. Nobody has said a word to me in the front office about a new contract. Does it bother me after all these years? Not really. The company that bought the Blues is treating it like a business, which it is, and I really don't feel any more important now than anybody else on this team." - Which of course, Unger is. How important he is may be determined by a team other than the Blues, though... Unger's tenure has not been without snickers. He's been accused of outright selfishness, dictating who his linemates are, and polishing apples for the former owners.

"It's all bull. The Salomons were good to me, and I enjoyed being with them, so why couldn't I be? As for being an individual, well, we all are. It's a team game, but if you're 30 points out of 1st place in January, what do you do? Do you give up or play out of individual pride? There are only supposed to be three things that keep you going in this game: money, fear of job and pride. Well, if I was making $25,000 or if I just inherited 35 Million, I'd still play. There is really no fear of jobs much anymore because of all the teams and all the players playing who don't belong here in the first place. So it all boils down to pride.

Garry Unger, the spectacular, high scoring center of the St. Louis Blues, is considering the possibility of signing a contract with another NHL team... Unger generally has been happy in St. Louis but because of the Blues' declining fortunes during the past few years, he has been growing restless.

Much of Unger's career has involved a search for a LW who is able to exploit Unger's scoring ability. Hammerstrom may not be the perfect complement for Unger, but Unger believes Hammarstrom is the best LW available for him on the team now. "For my style of play I have to have the puck a lot. I need wingers who are good at handling the puck and are good at making plays, so they can hit me with the pass when I made my break. The winger who can make more than the ordinary play is the kind I need. I need the winger who sees me breaking when I'm covered, but still makes the play because he knows I can get away from my check if the puck's there."

"putting me back at center was something that had to happen," Unger said. "You don't play 12 or 13 years at one position to move to another. I'll move if necessary but I don't like it. When you're at a different position, you find yourself standing around. I feel a lot more at home at center... he has to shake things up and get things going. That's why I didn't say anything when I was moved to left wing, but I think it's to the advantage of the team for me to play center.

"What's remarkable is that Unger plays very aggressively," says Blues' coach Barclay Plager. "That proves two things: he's durable, and he plays despite injuries."

The streak was over and Garry Unger admitted disappointment, but then too there was an admission of relief... with a crowd of over 10,000 in St. Louis chanting "Garry, Garry, Garry" as the clock ticked off the final seconds, Garry Unger's 11 year NHL consecutive game streak came to an end. Even at the urging of Unger's teammates and with the Flames ahead 7-3. coach Al MacNeil refused to let Unger take a shift on the ice... "He did what he felt he had to do. But no, I didn't like the way it was done. Sure I'm disappointed, but I'm also relieved. I guess it's ironic that it ended in St. Louis where I spent so many years keeping it going. But if it was causing aggravation on the club, I'm glad it's over - throw it out."... When MacNeil was urged by his players to let Unger take a shift before time ran out, he answered, "I run this club, not you guys."

"It was not predetermined. I dressed Unger and waited to see what happened. If I thought he could have helped us, I would have used him." Unger had injured his shoulder in a game against the Jets. Two nights later, he played only one shift in Edmonton and then was used sparingly in the next two games. "I played him in the other games since the injury, because I felt that even sub par he could help. But I wasn't thinking of the streak then, I'm not thinking about it now, and I won't be thinking of it tomorrow."

a crack in the iron... missed first game in 12 seasons in mid-season benching... was in uniform but never took a shift... was popular figure in St. Louis but tired of losing... has nearly every accolade but a Stanley Cup.

Garry Unger could be the key to the Kings' success this season. The first line cannot carry the club alone... When Unger was with Atlanta last season, they asked him to center a checking line and concentrate on defense. "I think I played as well as ever. I didn't just go for goals. I do prefer to play a game in which I can score goals as well as prevent them."...Unger will be 33 in December and one would assume he has suffered extra aging by so seldom missing a game, but he is one of the few players left in the league without a helmet, seems to be skating as well as ever, and is working extremely hard.

Garry Unger must be wondering if this returning to the place of his birth was all that great an idea... as the NHL's reigning ironman, there wasn't an obstacle anywhere that could keep him from showing up for work... now that he's back in Edmonton, nagging little injuries keep knocking him out of the lineup. "It's hard to believe, even embarrassing," Unger said recently as he recuperated from a broken rib... after only 10 days on the sideline, he was back to survive an altercation with Dale Hunter that left the veteran steaming. "The S.O.B. hit me on the side of the head on purpose. You don't mind getting banged once in a while, but when a guy's trying to hurt you, well..."... Unger has always managed to play with extra determination where injuries are concerned, though.

To this day, seven years later, Garry Unger and Al MacNeil are still in disagreement... "Garry Unger had been playing with an unbelievably bad shoulder. I was taking him along as far as I could in my mind. He had gotten to the point where he couldn't function physically." He left Unger, dressed but no place to go, on the bench. "I missed that game and I never missed another the rest of the season. He said that the record was more important than the team... he's the one who has to live with it. It doesn't bother me one bit. I did everything I could do as far as being dedicated to the game. It really wasn't a class thing to do I don't think. I'm sure he doesn't lose any sleep over it and I sure don't." MacNeil, doubtlessly, has slept well... it is the nature of the business. "It wasn't tough for me. It was a hockey decision. It could have been broken two weeks earlier (because of Unger's bad shoulder). He wanted to continue and if it was possible for him to do it we would have done it for him." One game later, it apparently was possible.

 

[seventieslord]

Dunc Munro, D

- 5'8", 190 lbs
- Stanley Cup (1926)
- Stanley Cup Finalist (1928)
- 7th in Hart voting (3rd among defensemen) (1927)
- Olympic Gold Medal (1924)
- Montreal Maroons Captain (1925-1928)
- Canadian Olympic Team Captain (1924)
- Placed 9th, 11th in scoring by defensemen
- 10th in assists (1926)
- Allan Cup (1922, 1923)
- Best defense vsx scores: 77, 61, 41, 38, 29, 9

Dunc Munro captained Canada's gold medal-winning team at the first Winter Olympic Games in 1924 at Chamonix, France. A few years later, the defenseman and sometime left winger starred with the Montreal Maroons in the young National Hockey League. His leadership and rink savvy eventually earned Munro the job of player-coach and manager of the Maroons.

Munro and The Granites won the John Ross Robertson Cup in 1922 and 1923. Winning the Allan Cup in both of those years earned Munro and his teammates, including a few replacements from other Canadian amateur teams, an invitation to Chamonix to represent his country.

When he returned to Canada, Munro was signed by the expansion Montreal Maroons, who were playing their first season in the NHL. It was a difficult year, as Montreal stayed out of last place only because of the poor performance of another new league entry, the Boston Bruins. In 1925-26 the Maroons improved dramatically. After finishing second in the regular season and winning twice as many games as they did in their inaugural year the Maroons marched to the NHL championship, winning the final series over the favored Ottawa Senators. The Maroons then captured the Stanley Cup by defeating the Victoria Cougars.

Munro and the Maroons were back in the Stanley Cup finals in 1928, but this time they were outclassed by the New York Rangers. After playing only one game of the 1928-29 season, Munro suffered a minor heart attack. He was forced to sit out the whole season to convalesce. When he returned in 1929, he was named the team's coach and manager while still taking a regular shift on the ice. Although Montreal was well above .500 during his tenure, Munro was playing less and less.

He was considered the linchpin of the team and, indeed, when he suffered a heart attack after only one game the following season, then later contracted pneumonia in the hospital, the team’s standings in the league suffered.

Munro was described as "beefy" who had some legendary battles with the Canadiens pint-sized Aurel Joliat. In one incident fought like "enraged bulldogs," both on the ice and in the penalty box.

Dunc Munro, a 23-year old newcomer to the NHL, was an experienced competitor. He had been captain and leader of the Toronto Granites team that had won the gold medal at the 1924 Olympics. Munro was a beefy defenseman who had been wooed by the deep pockets of the Maroons, and had been made team captain despite his lack of seniority.

Despite the new "anti-defense" rule, they managed to get away with playing much of the rest of the game in a defensive cocoon. the Canadiens kept coming, but Munro and Noble hung tough on defense... Morenz had been given some rough treatment all night, especially by Munro, who knocked him down whenever possible, and the Canadiens' star was showing signs of exhaustion.

The Cougars tried to get something going in the third period, but Dunc Munro, slowly playing himself back into shape (following an injury), broke their back with a brilliant end-to-end goal.

Flashy or not, Munro was undeniably a good player. The short, chubby (190 lbs on a 5'8" frame) was a tough competitor with a flair for making the big play. He was a good puck carrier, and could move quickly with his short, choppy strides. He could also hand out some stiff bodychecks and was one of the reasons the Maroons had an on-ice reputation as the "Marauding Maroons".

finally Munro, fresh from the bench, split the Victoria defense and walked in on Holmes. He deked and shot and the puck went in the net for the maroons third goal.

The gritty Munro and (Nels) Stewart menaced the Pirate net time after time with furious and well-aimed shots.

Dunc Munro used his head consistently in defensive play

Munro broke up a dangerous Ranger rush and went the length

Dunc Munro, hefty Maroons defenceman, who has been performing brilliantly on attack and defence lately, put his team ahead in the first period...

The sterling defense player of the Maroons, now rated one of the best rear-guardsmen in hockey, denied today he signed a new three-year contract with Maroons, as reported, but declared he would remain in Montreal.

Dunc Munro was playing with only one hand to control his stick... Munro went into action with his hand still paining and a cup over the broken bone. He played practically one-handed throughout the entire contest, though forced to take time out in the second period to have his hand taped... Munro played a courageous game and was frequently dangerous on the attack as well as sound the defensively... the New Yorkers were faster and better in combination but the Montrealers had power in attack and frequently crashing drives by Munro, Stewart, Phillips and Oatman forced the Ranger guard to hooking and tripping to save certain looking goals... Munro went down in a one-handed rush but had no one to pass to...

Munro has become one of the star defensemen of pro hockey...

Munro, in particular, was a pillar and once more indicated that as a cog in the Maroon machine he holds a place by himself. Munro's usefulness to the Maroons is mighty, even if it not always apparent to the majority of the crowd, but against the Americans Saturday it was noticed by all.

Dunc Munro Is Ill, Probably Out Of Hockey Forever - Star Defenseman Has Been Ordered Out For Long Rest After Examination - since 1924 has been captain and defense star of the Montreal Club...

Dunc Munro stopped a Boston rush and then skated back ahead of rival forwards. He came in close and slashed a sizzling shot off Tiny Thompson's pads.

Munro has been an outstanding hockey player in Canada for many seasons... he will no doubt be a useful man on the French-owned club's defense... Munro has always been popular with followers of the Canadiens... many are of the opinion that the Canadien management made a good move in signing Munro and not allowing him to join the Maple Leafs.

Dunc Munro hurtled into the limelight in Boston on Tuesday night by turning in a highly effective game, and the big defenceman is expected to be given plenty of work tonight against his former teammates. Crashing through for a goal and hitting hard on defence, Munro came off the bench after warming it for six games and played effectively.

One of professional hockey's greatest performers 30 years ago... a great performer in a colorful era... a standout in the days of such great performers... played a big part in their run to the Stanley Cup in 1926

Sturdy, stocky, good natured and sporting Dunc Munro passed on. To the memory of this scottish-born star of hockey in the roaring 20s, the game of today can make a salute. It was Munro who headed the big parade of amateur stars into pro hockey at a time when the monied game was held in what might be termed indifferent esteem, socially. And perhaps in a certain degree of boubt, otherwise... the first manager of the Maroons was Cecil Hart. But the great acquisition was Dunc Munro. Thick-set, clean playing Munro was by no means the first amateur to turn pro. But he was the first in a new, bigger and international era of hockey, and his arrival was the signal for scores of high class amateurs to drop the fast-vanishing prejudice against pro sport. The anti-professional feeling still existed in 1924, but today, the last of that tendency has gone. Munro was really the pioneer in that movement.

Munro was a fine type of cleancut personality, a fine hockey player. Sturdy of physique, dashing in style and fearless to a degree, he was one of the hardest bodycheckers in the game, and a whirlwind puck carrier on the offensive. But most of all, we will remember him the most vividly as a fine sportsman. In those days, the rivalry between Maroons and Canadiens took on a bitter personal hatred. the battles between them were classics of intensive rivalry. Nothing like this has ever been known in major hockey, before, or since. The intolerance and hatred rose to such heights that players of the rival teams, frequently passing eachother on the street, turned their heads, refused to speak. This was stony hearted, ruthless hatred. Not with Munro. He would jovially salute any Canadien player he happened to meet. He was, for years, the one Maroon player with whom Canadiens would converse. Munro on one occasion caused an uproar by declaring publicly, in a column written by this agent, that Howie Morenz was not only a swell guy, but the greatest hockey player of all time. Other Maroon players criticized him. Munro answered: "Don't be stupid. this is a game, not a war. I don't hate anybody. Howie is a swell kid, personally, and the greatest on the ice. That is my opinion, and what are you going to do about it?" Nobody wanted to do anything. The good natured Munro was entirely able to look after himself. No one wanted to tangle with him.

A look at Munro compared to contemporaries, based on career achievements and contributions:

Rank Player Pos GP TPAK Score Hall?
34 ADAMS, Jack 5 849 2.56 72.9 Yes
35 BAILEY, Ace 7 784 2.77 70.9 Yes
36 BURCH, Billy 5 962 2.67 70.5 Yes
37 MUNRO, Dunc 3 688 3.22 70.5 No
X TRAUB, Percy 3 1025 2.29 65.8 No
X WILSON, Phat 3 1067 2.51 65.3 Yes
X TRAPP, Bobby 3 809 2.47 62.5 No
X HIMES, Norm 57 943 2.52 61.8 No
X WATSON, Harry 5 462 3.29 61.4 Yes
X GREEN, Wilf 7 674 2.40 57.0 Yes
X GREEN, Red 6 666 2.29 56.9 No
X GOHEEN, Moose 3 578 2.54 54.9 Yes

 

[seventieslord]

Scott Hartnell, LW

- 6'2", 214 lbs
- Stanley Cup Finalist (2010)
- 6th in goals (2012)
- 10th in playoff goals, 11th in playoff points (2010)
- Played in NHL All-star game (2012)
- Best VsX scores: 70, 69, 60, 55, 55, 49, 46
- 80 NHL fights, record of 23-20-26 (www.dropyourgloves.com)

It's all about heart and headership. He's a gritty banger and tight checker who takes advantage of his scoring opportunities. Questions linger about his ability to produce at a higher level. Will be a defensive leader with the Preds when the time comes.

appeared in 75 games as the youngest player in the league... his biggest asset is the physical element he brings to the table every night. He competes for every loose puck and is already an accomplished defensive player. He can play either wing, although he looks to be more comfortable on the right side... should show gradual improvement in all facets of the game. He'll likely have the opportunity to play a big role on the Preds' checking line.

a prototypical power forward. He can play with finesse players and he adds character and heart to a squad. The knock on Hartnell is his skating speed, but he has good power. He is an up-and-down winger who crashes and gets inside. He is strong on the forecheck and plays with a lot of energy. Hartnell has very good hockey sense. He has good hande, can make plays with the puck, can drive the net and has the poise to pull up and find an open man.

Hartnell plays a hard-nosed game. He is gritty around the net. He hits and, when he has to, he will fight... quickly earned the respect of his older teammates. Could have been one of the best two-way players in the league last season... Nashville likes his leadership qualities and have him pegged as a future captain.

continued to mature throughout his rookie campaign... a powerful, workmanlike winger and punishing hitter, Hartnell consistently used his excellent size to drive towards goal and made significant improvements in skating and quickness...

the big winger's vast improvement last season earned him league-wide accolades... a physical player that never takes a shift off. Unlike a lot of players his age, there's nothing wrong with his defensive game. He has tremendous character and is a natural leader. In fact, Hartnell should become the next Predators captain.

He is always digging hard and keeping his feet in motion... a natural leader who is respected by his peer group as well as veteran players... his progress hasn't been entirely smooth. there are stretches where his game takes a step backwards.

Baby Bull continued to develop in leaps and bounds during his sophomore year and was arguably the club's best forward down the stretch before being felled by concussion... abrasive, hard nosed winger with well rounded skills including a powerful shot, Hartnell displays remarkable poise for his age, bringing an emotional, win-at-all-costs edge every night, and has made rapid gains in his first step acceleration and overall tempo... future captain is rapidly moving towards "beast" category.

Watch out for this guy in the coming years. He's big and strong, has great hands and is still learning.

known more for his character and leadership skills, but there's still untapped offensive potential lurking inside him... is clever with the puck for a crash-and-banger.. played all 82 games, dispelling concerns about his concussion history.

Here's the main thing about his skating - he wants to get there...if there's anything he's guilty of, it's of trying to do too much. He has to recognize and play within his limitations.

boasts very good straightline speed and has worked hard on his balance and agility... overextends himself at times though and takes too many needless penalties.

A born leader who will one day be an NHL captain, Hartnell has a great blend of skill, grit and leadership that would be valuable to any franchise. His work ethic and attitude are both exemplary and infectious. He'll have a solid and lengthy career.

should make an impact both on the ice and in the Philly locker room. An effective all-around player who combines offensive skill with sandpaper, Hartnell likes to mix it up and utilize his size in the corners. He's a great guy to have come playoff time, though he's getting a reputation for being a cheap-shot artist.

certainly wasn't shy upon returning for playoffs, earning three game misconducts in the first two contests, all related to a knee on knee hit on Jonathan Cheechoo... can be an imposing threat when he battles ferociously to create space and drives the puck towards goal... wins battles using his strong stick and is very effective at parking his big frame in the crease on the power play... still prone to taking lazy, undisciplined penalties.

Talk about the good, the bad and the ugly... recorded a league worst 54 minor penalties and was identified by Sports Illustrated as the NHL's fifth dirtiest player... needs to play smarter.

lost his cool during the opening game of the playoffs which tempered his impact thereafter... a heavy skater who tends to lose momentum in turns... an agitating and imposing threat... colorful character... impulsive and prone to the odd brain cramp...struggles to contain his emotions at times and is still a streaky contributor who runs hot and cold.

was having a miserable season, but the light bulb went on in the agitating winger's game once the playoffs rolled around.

another late riser to underachieve in the regular season only to find postseason redemption... found instant magic as the ramming rod on a controlling line with Briere and Leino...dished out 62 postseason hits to rank 2nd overall... drew 54 minors, second most in the league...

what the heck went wrong this past season? After a career year, the hirstute winger tallied a measly 6 even strength goals, in addition, he led the team in putting the opposition on the man advantage - not a great mix. Hartnell regained his focus for an inspired postseason, a major factor in Philadelphia's success... the big winger inflicted a physical toll on the opposition in addition to cashing in on both the power play and even strength.

the veteran LW can rile up opponents with his big mouth and big hits. He's durable and a reliable member of the Flyers.

rebounded to provide more goals and discipline before being slowed in the playoffs...vastly cut down on the careless penalties, drew 24 minors, down from 54... unable to duplicate his playoff heroics as he was hampered by a nagging hip injury... durable given his style

you might consider Scott Hartnell inconsistent or disapointing - and he's arguably been both - but he's certainly been durable, playing no less than 80 games in each of the past four seasons... had a heck of a time trying to score at even strength... Hartnell flashes skills and production so you've got to figure there's a good deal of talent there, you have to surmise that a lot of Hartnell's problem is between the ears.

"I'm not lobbying, but it would be criminal for Scott Hartnell not to be on there," Laviolette said after the Flyers' morning skate. "In my opinion, he's the top power forward in the league right now. Based on numbers, based on this season, based on plus-minus, hits, physical play, goals and assists," you'd be hard-pressed "to come up with somebody who has had a better year than Scott. End of story."

Biggest surprise: Scott Hartnell went from a laughingstock for his falls to an all-star. From someone most fans wanted traded to one of the league's best power forwards.

Hartnell began the season on the third line with rookies Sean Couturier and Matt Read. After scoring zero goals in the first six games, he was moved onto the top unit with Claude Giroux and Jaromir Jagr - and it may have been the shrewdest move coach Peter Laviolette made all season.

Hartnell, who had three tallies in one period in a Jan. 22 shootout loss to Boston, flourished and finished with a career-high 37 goals.

An ideal complement to creative genius Claude Giroux... a gritty competitor, unafraid of venturing into dirty areas to generate his scoring chances. Hartnell is also a most annoying player to line up against.

brought a renewed passion to camp and powered the Flyers all season with his physical leadership and blossoming goal talents...elevated his work rate away from the puck last season, particularly his offensive zone pursuits... led team with 188 hits... put it all together in 11-12, demonstrating a mature and disciplined power game.

shattered his previous best GVT and nearly doubled his second-best total. But the stat you should focus on is his 15.9% shooting percentage, well above his 11.4% career mark, almost certainly a sign of some favorable bounces as opposed to a newfond skill. What, did you think he was suddenly having a breakout season at age 29?

arguably the most important Flyers forward after Claude Giroux

It would haveb een hard to expect Hartnell to match hisincredible production from 2011-12, but he fell much harder than anticipated. The fiery forward struggled to find his scoring rhythm after breaking his foot in the early going and missing nearly a month...

Jarmo Kekalainen: “He’s hard to play against. When you talk about him as an opponent — you talk to a lot of different sources around the league, people that I know and people he’s been associated with — they all say the same thing: You hate to play against him, but you’d love to have him on your team. That’s the way we feel about him. He was a tough opponent. Somebody you always noticed and somebody you hated from the press box, but you always thought you’d like to have him on your team.”

Gritty and aggravating Hartnell appears to be slowing down, quite literally... often looked a bit too slow to keep up with linemates Giroux and Voracek.

steady decline of an aging goal scorer, finding the net less and requiring supplemental help to be productive... surprised and angry to find himself traded one year into a six year contract... personality and style seem a good fit for the blue collar ethic being established in Columbus...

There may not be a player in the league who is as frustrating, yet underappreciated as Scott Hartnell. After a disappointing 2012-13, the grizzled winger turned in a bounceback season. He produced 1.82 ESP per 60 and an outstanding 17.4 relative Corsi. Despite his top-six production and ability to drive play, inconsistency has been a bugaboo in Hartnell's game along with his uncanny ability to take an ill-timed penalty.

The Flyers had their reason but Columbus will be forever grateful for the trade that brought him to Ohio for R.J. Umberger... Hartnell stepped into an ideal situation and helped drive the offense and puck possession.

Former Philly fan favourite brought his offensive and physical prowess to Columbus... the power forward showed little sign of slowing down, despite not having high-end speed... he may not be the same by the end of this six-year deal, but the jackets have built up a solid group of young forwards that will allow him to transition into more of a role player... however, until his game slips, he gives the Jackets a go-to guy in front of the net, especially on the power play.

Assets: Loves to crash and bang, and also gets under the opposition's skin regularly. Complements skilled players well. Has good offensive instincts and defensive makeup. When needed, he can be a quality finisher.

Flaws: Some of his antics are questionable, and are at times reviewable by the league. He's not a natural shooter. Doesn't always drop the gloves when challenged by opponents. Can lack consistency on offense.

Career Potential: Quality, agitating complementary winger.

 

[seventieslord]

Andre Boudrias, LW/C

- 5'8", 165 lbs
- Stanley Cup Finalist (1970)
- Avco Cup (1978)
- Avco Cup Finalist (1977)
- Top-22 in Assists 4 Times (5th, 8th, 20th, 22nd)
- Top-26 in Points 4 Times (19th, 20th, 22nd, 26th)
- Best Points Percentages (70s system): 87, 78, 70, 66, 63, 58, 32
- During five season Vancouver prime, averaged 0.90 PPG playing with players who averaged 0.61
- Career Adjusted +58
- Vancouver Canucks Captain (1976)

Left-winger Andre Boudrias was only 5'8" but used his speed and accurate passing skills to elude checks and keep the opposition off balance. He played nearly 700 career games with five different teams in a solid career.

The Montreal native starred with the Junior Canadiens and led the OHA in scoring in 1962 and 1964. He spent the majority of his first four pro seasons in the minors since the Canadiens were so deep at forward. Expansion gave Boudrias a chance to shine after he was acquired by the Minnesota North Stars. He scored 53 points in 1967-68 then provided solid defensive play for the Stars, Chicago Black Hawks, and St. Louis Blues over the next two seasons.

The talented winger took on a great deal of offensive responsibility with the expansion Vancouver Canucks in 1970-71. Boudrias topped the 60-point mark in each of his first five years with the club before taking on a more defensive role and serving as the club's captain in 1975-76. He then added offensive savvy and leadership on the WHA's Quebec Nordiques before retiring in 1978.

Like so many Montrealers growing up, little Andre Boudrias had a dream of playing for the Habs. And, like so many, his dream was clouded by the deep pool of talent available to the team in those days... as a result, he was traded to Minnesota and then Vancouver, where he defined his career as a scorer and leader...

They affectionately labelled him "Super Pest", but Andre Boudrias provided the Canucks with much more than stellar forehecking during his half-dozen years with the fledgling club. Boudrias was the first consistent offensive star for the Canucks, managing five straight seasons of 60 points or better and continually supplying his linemates with quality scoring chances.

The slick centreman was best known for his whirlwind style of play in the opponents' zone, where he moved around like a buzz saw, breaking up plays and turning them into offensive forays for Vancouver. He also managed to work his way effectively under the skin of those he played against. "I guess I got that nickname because I was tenacious checking for the puck," Boudrias says more than 30 years later. "The forechecking part of the game was more important to me. And I always wanted to give a little more on the ice to make sure the paying customers had fun."

The fans appreciated his effort in those early days. A diminutive man by today's hockey standards, Boudrias was one of the most popular canucks. "The fans were in love with me, for some reason," he says. His linemates liked him, too. Whoever skated with Boudias seemed to light it up. ******* ******** scored a career high 34 goals playing with Boudrias in 1970-71, Bobby Schmautz had 38 as his linemate in 1972-73 and Don Lever matched that total in 1974-75.

"Boud was a pest. He was a little ****-disturber," Schmautz recalls, fondly. "All the guys would run after him. I don't know how many times I had to fight that Hextall because he'd drive Hextall crazy, and I'd jump in, and Hextall and I used to go just about every time we played. He'd get on guys' nerves, I guess. I really don't know why, but they'd seem to go after him. When I played with him, I didn't think that was right so I'd step in."

Although he started on the fourth line, Boudrias was eventually teamed with ******** and **** ****** and he finished the year as the team's leading scorer... Boudrias was durable, skilled at finding his linemates at the right time, and a decent skater. He was also an outstanding penalty killer. In fact, he even scored a goal against Chicago's Tony Esposito when the Canucks were two men short.

The pinnacle of his career came in 1974-75, when he piled up 62 assists and 78 points. That winter his linemates were Don Lever and ****** ***********, and they both enjoyed banner seasons. "Boudy was just a really smart player, you know," Lever says. "He didn't have a lot of speed, but he could really pass the puck. He could see the ice, he had good vision." "Boudrias was good in the corners," adds ***********, who would never find another center with whom he worked so well. "He was just a little pest. It was hard to take the puck off him, and he allowed you time to get in position for a good scoring chance."

After a stint as team captain in 1975-76, he opted to leave Vancouver when the WHA's Winnipeg Jets came calling. The move was a good one, as he won the Avco cup with Quebec in 1978.

Boudrias scored a beautiful goal in the third period when we were two men short. He skated right through Hull and Mikita to do it, but would you believe that was our only shot on goal in the period?

Boudrias is short and broad, a deliberate eel-like skater, a bit of an introvert... ******** was the more momentarily spectacular, Boudrias the more consistent.

Primarily, Boudrias was assigned checking duties. When he was checking Phil Esposito in the slot, Boudrias often looked like a small logger trying to topple a douglas fir with an axe. But Boudrias checked so dilligently that Coliseum fans nicknamed him Super Pest... He is a fine passer, who seldom wastes the puck, he doesn't intimidate and he likely would have scored 30 goals each season had it not been for an unfortunate proclivity for shooting high when eyeball to eyeball with opposing goalies... He carries himself like a veteran on the ice and off...

Boudrias wiggled his way into the hearts of vancouver fans like a tongue-wagging puppy in that first season. They liked the way he mixed it with players a neck and head taller.

There is a fine story about the defensive hanuting that the Pest hung on Boston's scoring leader, Esposito. As the story goes, the Bruins remained in town for a couple of days after a game against the Canucks. Some went fishing in Howe Sound. It is said that, after trolling around without success for two hours, Esposito stared sourly down to the water and said, "I know what's wrong. That little b*st*rd Boudrias is down there, checking my bait."

It is well-known that Jacques Plante stoned the Russians with the Junior Canadiens for a 2-1 win, but did you know who made the play that won the game?

The conclusion to this anxious drama came with only 20 seconds remaining on the clock. Andre Boudrias checked a Russian defenseman inside his own blueline, jarring the puck loose and onto the stick of **** ******, who quickly laid the puck on the stick of **** ******, who backhanded it into the back of the Russian net. The final score was 2-1.

Boudrias, one of the few shining lights in the expansion North Stars' first three NHL games... the muscular Montreal native... although he wasn't listed in Wren Blair's three lines for the opener, he entered the contest early for penalty killing purposes and showed enough to wind up the game with more ice time than any other forward on the club... Blair rewarded the helmeted hustler by starting him in the next two games... he didn't add to his point total, but that didn't dim Blair's opinion of Andre. "The way he played in St. Louis, he deserved a starting shot. Here is a guy with limited experience who is still learning how to make a lot of plays. But what he lacks in finesse, he makes up by skating his head off."

If NHL salaries were determined by ice time, there's no question who would be the North stars' highest paid forward. The man's name is Andre Boudrias. He's the ever-hustling hard rock who has rarely msised a regular shift at center ice this season while also performing the important bot often thankless job of killing penalties. This is not to say that the management has been totally unaware of Boudrias' value... until lately, no matter how he played, there was always talk about him being moved to left wing some day. The "NHL centerman" tag came from the boss himself - Wren Blair... "Boudrias is the only centerman we have doing a big league job."

At one juncture in the St. Louis game the score was still tied 0-0, Andre was just about to finish what had stretched out to be a near two-minute shift when a penalty was called on Bill Plager. The Blues ten controlled the puck for more than a half minute while Boudrias and his mates tried desperately to get it away. When this was finally accomplished, it was thought that Blair would call Andre to the bench. Wren did, but only to ask if he thought he could at least kill the first minute or so. So Boudrias went to work with Bill Collins and stayed on for the whole two minutes. "Sure it cuts down the possibility of a guy scoring 20 goals, but I like killing penalties."

"too small," they snorted when Andre Boudrias was ready for the NHL, "and to mild-mannered." Boudreaux is only 5 foot eight, it's true, and weighs only 165 pounds but it seems he can hold his own in the rough going. "If you back down once," he says, "you'll back up forever."

"He's been excellent so far," says Bobby Hull. "He's mobile, works hard checking in the offensive zone, and it sure looks like he knows how to score."... a couple months ago, he and McMahon were threatened with fines by Minnesota manager Wren Blair for what he termed "indifferent play".

"I got off to a bad start this year. I was playing left wing and couldn't put the puck in the net. I wound up killingpenalties and doing little else."

Billy Reay says, "Boudrias fits in with Bobby and Eric like he was born to the job"

Andre is just a little guy, but he can fly. The helmeted center is quite durable and he seldom misses a game.

Boudrias draft lacked the speed to make up for his smallness, and got sidetracked, though he finally reached the NHL as a regular with Minnesota… Scotty Bowman claimed him on behalf of St. Louis. "Boudrias is a playmaker of extraordinary skill," says Bowman, "and he can be useful to us because of the hitters and checkers we already have. Life should be a little easier for him here."

there is no question about it: little Andre Boudrias is one of hockey's finest playmaking centers. Give him a pair of good wingers, preferably big ones who can absorb the heavy checking, and he'll set up plenty of goals for you. Canucks, who were determined to collect as many capable that it is possible, new about Boudrias skill and move quickly when they had a chance to buy him from St. Louis. Boudrias was one of the expansion sections hottest scorers during the 1968 season,, but his next employers, Chicago, then St. Louis, didn't use him regularly and as a result his statistical performance has tailed off.

when you look at Andre Boudrias and realize what an outstanding season he had with the Canucks, you can't help but think hockey is an extremely inexact science... almost all season long he's been their leading scorer... he's in addition one of two plus players on the team. That is to say he's been on the ice for more goals for than against, no mean feat when you consider the canucks have given up roughly 90 more goals than they've scored. Not only that, Boudrias plays on the powerplay, kills penalties and invariably draws the assignment of checking the other team's top center. Watching him harrass an opposing defenseman or forward in his own end is like watching a waterbug zip around a still pond. In fact his defensive skills inspired a local DJ to write a song in his honor titled "Superpest"

The nickname is well earned. Boston's Phil Esposito has broken every NHL scoring record in the book, but he's scored only 3 goals in 6 games against Vancouver. In fact, he's a minus player against the Canucks. The man who has checked him is Boudrias.

Boudrias kept the Canucks respectable last year. He is a tireless skater, and an expert puck ragger and penalty killer.

he's small, but very fast.

Likes to buzz after the puck and is one of the best forecheckers in the business... Not a muscle man, but give him a pair of decent-sized linemates, and he'll score...

Vancouver Canucks had to be talked into taking little Andre Boudrias as a member of the first NHL team. Scotty Bowman, then managing St. Louis Blues, made him available in the expansion draft of 1970, but there were no takers. Bowman persuaded Canucks to give him a try. "So I deserve some credit for the things Boudrias did in Vancouver," says Bowman… Boudrias was Vancouver's leading scorer but equally important was the defensive work he did... "With Orland Kurtenbach out, Boudrias had to be the checking center against all the big forward lines," says coach Hal Laycoe. Boudrias handle the assignment most capably. For instance, he held Boston's Phil Esposito to 3 goals all season. The Canucks were Esposito's most difficult opponents. "You move quickly to stay right on top of him. In fact I think it's a job for a small man," says Boudrias. "We knew he could set up plays," Laycoe says, "but it was his checking that amazed us."

two straight terrific seasons have tabbed Andre as a solid NHL performer. The speedy little guy is already with his fifth NHL club, and he's turned into a real fans favorite in Vancouver. He also plays left-wing, and he even played defense in Junior hockey.

once considered too small to be a major leaguer… "Naturally, were grateful for all the goals we can get but what's a tremendous bonus about Boudrias is the superb checking job he does against big centers like Esposito and Ratelle," says GM Bud Poile.

Has a buzz-saw style that led to his being nicknamed "Super Pest"... shortly after that, local radio station came out with "The Super Pest Song" and it became a regular part of warmup music... lack of size has never prevented him from being a good scorer... good forechecker and opportunist around the net.

In many respects this has been a tempestuous season for Andre Boudrias, the sturdy little center of the Canucks. He and coach Vic Stasiuk clashed during the opening days of training camp. Since then, both of them have mostly kept to themselves, but as the season unfolded it has been obvious that neither is a great admirer of the others. Annoyed by Boudrias' training camp attitude and early play, Stasiuk used him sparingly in the first month... though never openly critical of Stasiuk, Boudrias was certainly resentful and suggested publicly that if the Canucks did not choose to play him he would like to be traded...

another of the Canucks' small but talented forwards, Andre hit the 30 goal plateau for the first time and paste the connection power-play goals… Slick playmaker and an elusive skater who relies on finesse with the puck rather than muscle.

"he's been just about our most consistently good player over the years," said Bud Poile... Boudrias previously had been employed by the Montréal Minnesota and Chicago organizations, all of which discarded him because he didn't have either the speed or the resourcefulness, to compensate for smallness… "We don't consider his size any kind of a shortcoming. In fact, it helps him in doing a thorough defensive job on big centers like Phil Esposito and Jean Ratelle. The effectiveness with which Boudrias handles these assignments is at least as important as the goals and assist he gets."

when he was purchased by the Canucks in their first season, Andre Boudrias was running out of places to play... none of the clubs that unloaded him have ever been heard to express much regret over the matter. Some of his ex-coaches have been known to mutter that he was a "bad influence in the dressing room". And though he has come within a single point of leading them in scoring in each of the three years he has played for them, even the Canucks have occasionally grumbled about his conduct on and off the ice. Then the Canucks hired Bill McCreary as coach and suddenly the grumbling has stopped... for the first time since entering the NHL, Boudrias is being coached by a man who openly and genuinely admires his skills. McCreary honestly believes Boudrias is an exceptional talent and while he doesn't go around making flowery speeches, he makes it obvious by his actions. When there is a penalty that just needs to be killed, Boudrias is the man he sends out to kill it. When there is a key faceoff to be won in the Vancouver end, Boudrias is sent out there to win it. If the Canucks are a goal down, tied, or a goal ahead in the final minute, Boudrias is invariably on the ice. As for Boudrias, he's making his coach look good... an important factor in Vancouver's new-found respectability has been Boudrias' all-around play and leadership. at 35 years of age, Boudrias has become a leader. A team man. He's also setting the pace by his own example... Boudrias has never done his job better. However, that is not to say the stocky little center hasn't always made a contribution. In three years his point totals have been 66, 61 and 70, and despite his 170 pound frame, he's always shown up for work. But though he's always carried a major role in Vancouver, until this season he's never been considered a leader, at least not the kind management had in mind. With McCreary running things Boudrias has become exactly that sort of leader.

One encouraging thing is the continuing fine play of veteran center Andre Boudrias, a player whose performances have not always pleased the friendly boss despite his consistent scoring production... the compact sized pivot has taken over as a team leader with center and captain Orland Kurtenbach currently out of the lineup with a knee injury.

Barring a finishing flurry, Andre Boudrias will score barely half as many goals as last season. Nevertheless, the stocky little center is completing his finest NHL season... he was been setting them up at a rate that long ago established a club record... the little general has played in every Canucks game this season... he's one of the more durable players in the league...

Small but elusive center who has tricky moves, a deceptive shot and good checking ability... An opportunist who turns numerous rebounds, steals, and loose pucks into goals at scrambles around the crease

a slick playmaker… He's an extremely talented skater who makes the most of his opportunities, and is especially effective on the power play… He's also a top-notch defensive player who can effectively shadow the top scorer on the opposition.

it's difficult to determine Andre Boudrias' chief value to the Canucks: his flair for checking the opposition's best centers or his substantial offensive skills. Boudrias, 33, has been Canucks top producer over there for seasons of operation. Less noticeable, but just as important, is his effectiveness in covering people like Phil Esposito and Jean Ratelle. "Some people think he's too small but it's no obstacle, as far as I can see," says coach Phil Maloney.

An effective checker despite his size... Says Phil Esposito: "They always put Super Pest on me and I hate him. He hangs all over me and just plain gets in the way."

To Andre Boudrias fame is an elusive rascal, his arm forever draped over other shoulders. he quietly goes about his business of setting up and scoring goals, but nobody seems to notice... his two-year production says he's one of the top playmakers in hockey. But only two people seem to fully appreciate the fact - his left winger and his right winger.

it seems incredible now but the Canucks had to be talked into getting center Andre Boudrias… "He's also an excellent checker," says Phil Maloney, especially against big opposition centers like Phil Esposito and Jean Ratelle. and to think it was one suggested he was too small. In those defensive situations, his size is actually an asset."

Superb checker for his size, drives Phil Esposito to distraction.

an extremely durable performer

Durable for his size: Prior to last season, missed two games in five years.

Boudrias is one of three players officially considered firmly ensconsed in the doghouse of the Canucks, having sounded off on a radio show after the playoffs about how coach Phil Maloney should have handled the club down the stretch.

Signed by Quebec as sound insurance, and wisely so... a good team man, as the Nordiques discovered... centered the #1 line for 9 playoff games when Chris Bordeleau was injured.

Need a playmaking LW in the MLD who isn't one-dimensional? Super Pest is your man!

Career Assists Per game leaders, LW, minimum 250 assists, available entering MLD2010:

Rk|Name|APG|Top-20s
4|Anton Stastny|0.59|8
17 | Andre Boudrias | 0.51 | 5,8,20
18|Dennis Hextall|0.51|3, 11, 15
27|Steve Vickers|0.49|NIL
34|John Ogrodnick|0.46|NIL
35|(undrafted)|0.46|NIL
40|Eric Vail|0.44|20
41|Gerard Gallant|0.44|NIL

(numbers as of 2010 but it doesn't appear anyone else has joined their ranks)

 

[seventieslord]

Jack Evans, D

- 6'0", 185 lbs
- Stanley Cup (1961)
- Stanley Cup Finalist (1962)
- 5th in All-star voting (1962)
- Received a few norris and all-star votes in two other seasons (1957, 1961)
- Made NHL All-Star game on merit (1961)
- Played 10.5 seasons worth of games in the highly competitive O6 era (average team SRS -.08)
- Best defense vsx scores: 40, 29, 29, 25, 24, 23

There have been few players with more raw strength than Jack "Tex" Evans, who split his NHL career between the Rangers (1948 through 1958) and Blackhawks (1958 through 1963). Tex was also renowned for his "lantern jaw" and his reluctance to speak.

known as a solid defender… Displayed raw power… Evans killed penalties and worked on the power play

a solid defender, he played on the power play and killed penalties. In those days, he recalls, fighting wasn't intimidating factor, it was bodychecking. "You throw a good body check. That's how we intimidated. There was very little fighting."

though slow of foot, Evans was a defenseman who relied as much on smarts as he did on skill and was rarely caught out of position. Durable and dependable...

Their defense was big and scary. Jack Evans is one of those quiet guys who could pound you through the boards if you didn't watch out.

we didn't know it at the time but the most telling blow of all was dealt by Jack Evans against Jean Beliveau. He was checked into the boards behind the net by the Chicago defenseman and struck his head on the glass as he was falling to the ice. The next day he was still complaining of a headache and would not be the same for the remaining games. If one check could turn a series, that was it.

we didn't have an antidote for their roughhousing. Where they could throw out Fleming, Evans, or pilote, we simply lacked an aggressive fighter to neutralize them.

the worst injury occurred during the third game of the 1962 playoffs. I was in the corner, scuffling for the puck, when suddenly the lights went out. The other Chicago defenseman, big Jack Evans, the same man who had left me with a concussion in last year's playoffs,left his post in front of the net and charged me into the boards, catching me in the head with his stick, then driving my head into the glass. Even though I dressed for the remaining games, I was finished for the playoffs.

A hard-hitting, rock'em, sock'em defenseman

RANGERS' LATEST DIAMOND IN THE ROUGH RETURNS AS POLISHED PLAYER

Who would have thought, two years ago, that this shy Welsheman would so soon return from Saskatoon to jab the Rangers' playoff hopes? At that time there was considerable concern over his future way of life. Certainly not those Ranger fans, who had seen the husky but hesitant Evans commit tomfoolery for two awful NHL seasons. They predicted he'd make a good ditch digger... Fortnately, there were two dissenting votes. One came from the Rangers, who felt they had a diamond in the rough that could, with patience and fortitude, be smoothed to perfection. The other was Evans himself. He never gave up hope that major league hockey would still be his particular cup of tea.

Although the "new" Evans wasn't recalled until December 9th, the word was around he was now ready for major league hockey any time the Rangers needed him. Frank Boucher, who'd seen Jack play a few games last year, was well aware of it. If the manager hadn't been briefed before, he certainly received irrefutable proof in this little telephone conversation with Jack Adams last September:

Adams: I could use another defenseman for Edmonton. How avout selling me Evans? You have no use for him.

Boucher: Evans? Who'll you give me for him?

Adams: Guyle Fielder. You need forwards.

Boucher: He'd help us some. But Jack, you're not serious about needing Evans for Edmonton, are you? You'd like him for Detroit, now wouldn't you?

Adams: Well, yes, I guess we would fit him in as our fifth defenseman.

Evans is not the Rangers' fifth defenseman. He is very definitely a regular worker who, since mid-December, has formed a paying partnership with Harry Howell. According to the records, they are the club's best team of defensemen.

"When Jack came up before, he was raw and crude. He lacked confidence. He was hesitant every time the occasion arose for him to pass out or carry a puck. He was very uncertain on defense and became so overanxious he made foolish penalties. He tripped and hooked and held when he should have been in position to make a good check. Evans now has confidence. He is a really fine puck carrier, and is now making most of his talent. He is still rough without being silly. He's respected by the players in this league because the word of his days in Saskatoon has gotten around fast. Jack had some terrific fist fights out West and I guess he won them all. However, as most good fighters, he doesn't go out of his way to find trouble.

Let's ask Muzz Patrick, who saw much of Evans in the WHL and who is now very happy to be coaching him. "He's become very fast and quick. He anticipates plays well now, and is always loose, relaxed and confident. He packs that puck up about as well as anyone. Potentially, I'd say he is now one of the finest defensemen in the league."

Doug Bentley, who coached Evans in Saskatoon and who appointed him captain, had an important part in Jack's development. "When he joined us in Saskatoon, Jack lacked confidence. He was getting bad penalties out there, too. We started working on him, and he soon learned. Instead of standing and clutching, he learned to turn and move with the guy coming in. He wound up as an all-star defenseman last year, and, boy, he was a good one.

Although he was a fine defenseman in Saskatoon, Evans will long be remembered in for one particular incident. He was involved with Larry Zeidel in one of the bloodiest fights in history. It happened last season in Edmonton. "Zeidel, who was the league's bad man, had been picking on a couple of our small players this night. Jack came to their rescue and before you knew it, they were swinging both fists and sticks. The officials couldn't stop it. No one could. It must've lasted from 5 to 10 min. By then, there was blood all over the ice. Jack definitely have the best of it."

"yeah, it was a pretty good scrap. But we both got hurt. Cost us $100 apiece and one-game suspension. That's the only time I've ever been fined or suspended.."

Evans will agree with every opinion that he wasn't much of a hockey player two years ago. He, too, thinks he has improved enough to play in the NHL.he says. "I guess I was overweight at 190 pounds two years ago. I'm now playing at 182, and I find I'm much quicker."

teamed up with harry Howell... records indicate they were the Rangers' best defensive team... a fine puck carrier and steady rearguard. He likes to play it rough, but clean.

ttwo players who came pretty close to being formed out this fall played a big part in painting the Rangers pretty picture to date. One of them, goaltender Lorne Worsley, has received some of his do claim. The other, defenseman Jack Evans, has gone about his business with nary a huzzah.

It is doubtful that many New Yorkers expected to see Jack Evans in Ranger livery this semester. He has had five flings with the Rangers before the season. There were times when he looked like a world beater. On other occasions he seemed to lack that extra NHL zip. when they dispatched him to Saskatoon last season everyone figured Jack had seen the last of Broadway as a hockey player.. But at last, he has returned, truly better than ever. He isn't drawing cheap penalties like the old-time. His defensive work is sound. But best of all, big Jack is making those rink length rushes in a manner that would have Wally Stanowski beam his approval.

probably the key to Evans' success is the fact that he's getting plenty of work. The Bill Gadsby and Evans combine has been a solid unit since the opening game. Jack is a natural skater, one of the fastest in the loop once he ones up behind the goal. "I told him at training camp," said Watson, "that he's free to rush whenever he feels there's a good opening. I'm not worried about getting a few penalties. That's expected. But you'll notice that Jack is playing heads-up game while not drawing the cheapies."

are we seeing things? Is it a mirage? Was it really Jack Evans who slugged Boston's Leo Labine one day and big Bobby Robertson of Providence the next? Is large Tex finally coming out of his shell to become the ruffian Ranger rooters want to see? he is and other questions about New York strong silent back liner are being asked by Gotham fandom since Evans the defenseman became Evans the fighter in recent Ranger exhibition games. They'll be answered as soon as the NHL campaign gets underway. In the meantime, Phil Watson and his charges are keeping the answer in the affirmative. Let's face it. The Ranger forward wall, as confident as it may seem, is woefully weak in the beef and fight department. To keep the opposition honest the blue defensemen must show their muscle.

Evans had a good season, but man oh man, what more he could've done without heavy body and heavy fists. This is not a proclamation suggesting that Evans go around picking fights. No one's going to say that good defenseman have to be good boxers. It just happens that Evans has the ability to do both. Ask Woody Dumart, Eric Nesterenko or Bert Olmstead. They all took the count from Evans, but only after great provocation.

"I've never seen Jack lose a fight," Andy Bathgate remarked. "It takes a lot of riling to get him mad but once he's fighting, zip, those fists fly. The guy is powerful and afraid of no one."

Watson recalls an incident in training camp last year: one thing happened out there that made me go for Evans. Fontinato was playing his usual rock 'em game and giving some of the kids fits. a face-off came with Lou on one side and one of the youngsters on the other, with the kid not too happy about it.. Evan skated over and quietly told the kid he would take over. It showed me Jack doesn't back away from anybody."

Perhaps Evans believes fighting will get him into the penalty box much quicker, and who needs penalties? He's a conscientious and sincere player who can do without the major sentence. However, a couple of healthy shows of sock would do Jack a world of good and make the New York defense of the most respected in the NHL.

in late September exhibition game between the Springfield Indians and the New York Rangers, forward Jack Cafferty of the Bruins was tripped by Jack Evans. Evans, a New York defenseman, slid into Cafferty playing with Springfield for the one game, cutting his feet from under him. Five weeks later Cafferty was still out of the Bruins lineup. He is recovering from a severe knee injury caused by the Evans slide. a month after that incident defenseman Leo Boivin of the Bruins was cut down in a similar fashion by evidence in again here between the Bruins and Rangers. This time the result of the evidence trip was the puncturing of Boivin's shin guard by the tip of the Rangers skate.. Boivin subsequently underwent a 75 min. operation at the hospital for repair of a split muscle and a severed tendon.

In neither case did Evans unique method of checking draw a penalty, but it is the feeling of many members of the Bruins that the method warrants a penalty. the Evans slide is a trip, they feel, and a menace to the well-being of New York opponents as well. "The rule on tripping is clear enough," pointed out the veteran Bruins forward, "but Evans has been allowed to get away with that slide for years."

"I thought for a long time that play of his is nothing but a trip," declared another Bruin, "but I've only seen it called once. the rule is in the book presumably to prevent injuries from plays like his. Why the heck doesn't the league see that the rule is used?"

they'll never called Jack Evans the best defensemen in hockey. Nor the second or third best. But he is one of those honest workmen. And if he's not the best, still, there isn't a team in hockey that would grab the big guy if he were put on the market.

"I remember when I first came up. I used to run all over the place. Don't do it as much now. I save my steps. Of course, there are guys who make the race like Leo Labine and Fleming Mackell. Their the fast puck carriers that bother me. And I'll add Gordie Howe and the rocket.

it's a trade whisper that Evans can fight with the best of them. Was it always that way? "I never made it my business to start fights. My policy is I won't bother you if you don't bother me. I'm content to play my game on defense and forget about the fighting. when I was with Saskatoon, though, I have a couple of tough ones. One time we were playing Edmonton and there was plenty of spearing going on. Larry Zeidel was doing most of it. he came at me once but before he hit me I put up my stick in a crosscheck. We both started swinging our sticks, then we broke our sticks and punched it out. it was quite a mess.. He never bothered me after that. the other time I went out of my way to get into a fight in Saskatoon game, I fell down in a scramble and Pete Durham stepped on my hand severing some tendons. I had no business being there in the first place, so after that I decided not to waste my time looking for trouble.

He is a self-confessed worrier. His coach, Phil Watson knows it. "I don't like to bawl out Evans, because he'll go into a shell." Still, Evans had a bad game last week and he was benched. it's not the first time. "It's happened before with him", said general manager Murray Patrick. "his timing goes bad. It's a slump but something he usually works itself out of."

"Yep, I'm a worrier, especially when I play a bad game. It's not so much the crowd as my own play that I worry about. I used to listen to the crowd and let them bother me. Now I hear them but it doesn't hurt the way it used to. On the road, the more they boo, the better I like it.

has become a solid citizen on the New York Rangers defense.. He'll never turn the NHL upside down,, but he does give every ounce can while playing... He's thrown some sweet bodychecks too. "there was one nice one against Bill Ezinicki... I caught him so good that King Clancy never stopped talking about it. "

"Tex" was claimed by the hawks before last season and quickly established himself as a steady bulwark of the blueline.

in 1949 and was assigned to the New York farm team New Haven in the Eastern league. Defense partner was player coach Neil Colville and he taught Jack a great deal about clearing the puck. "I didn't have the confidence to hold onto the puck in my own end. He convinced me I was big and strong and that it was the opposing forwards who should have trouble getting the puck away from me.."

Evans was a regular from 1951 1952 seasons with New York. Then, the next year in training camp,, Bill Cooke now coaching, Evans was called in by GM Frank Boucher and told he was being sent down to Saskatoon. "I asked him why he told me they had other players they thought would do the job," recalls Evans. "I was pretty disappointed and mad at New York. I thought I had been given a bad deal. I guess that's as close as I ever came to the people in the game…" so Jack Evans started long haul back to the NHL. Only it was not so long wasn't so unpleasant. In fact it was very pleasant.

Says wife Margaget: "I began to worry that Jack would relax too much. But we did like it. Jack won the award as most valuable player on the Saskatoon team first year and we had more silver spoons for star of the night than we knew what to do with. I supplied all our relatives with them."

"I kept telling myself that I was content to play out my career there. But it wasn't really true. When you aren't in the big time you can find all kinds of excuses for being where you are. If you aren't careful you lose the desire and fall into a minor-league pattern. I knew I wouldn't be happy until we made it back to the National League."

"In Saskatoon I used to carry the puck a lot. In New York they told me to the rough one and the body checker. I was always teamed with offensive or rushing defenseman. First it was Wally Stanowski. Then from 1955 to 1958 it was Bill Gadsby three seasons. In Chicago I have played mostly with Dollard St. Laurent, who does most of the rushing for us."

"at New York I got in a lot of fights and had more than 100 minutes in penalties each year. In Chicago the forwards are bigger and check harder so you don't get as many fights or get as many penalties."

Evans had three fairly good years at New York's even though he was given a rough time by some of the fans during the 1957 season. "In Boston and New York the balconies almost hang over the ice and you can hear every word the fans yell. My first year back there the fans ran Alan Stanley out of town. The next year they got on me. I'll admit it affected my play. You got so you didn't want to touch the puck for fear you would make a bad pass. I played much better on the road then in New York that season."

The next year Jack made up his mind not to let the catcalls bother him and, after a couple of weeks, they let up, and began on Harry Howell...Jack frankly tells you that his best break in hockey was being sold to the Chicago Blackhawks during the summer of 1958.. For one thing New York was on the downgrade and hasn't made the playoffs since then, while the black Hawks under general manager Tommy Ivan were on the rise. As a result Evans has picked up an extra $3000 in Stanley Cup playoff money with Chicago that he would have missed out on with New York.. But more than that is the confidence he has gained under coach Pilous.

"I've taken a regular turn here and been used in tougher spots. Rudy puts me on to kill penalties or near the end of a close game to help protect the lead. It gives you confidence and I think I've been a better player here than I was for New York. I don't rush with the puck as often as I used to. My main concern has always been to keep the other team from scoring. But I'm a smarter player now and can cover up my mistakes better."

Says Pilous: "He's a workhorse who does his best when the going is roughest. He's gained his favour among the fans the hard way, by plugging away game after game on defense while our emphasis has been on the dashing wide open play of our forwards.

During this losing streak the Black Hawks knew they had the personnel but for some reason the team just didn't mesh. The Black Hawk management put the blame on all the able bodied players. "Everybody has to share in the blame... everybody but Jack Evans," said Tommy Ivan, general manager.

Evans, at 33, is the oldest of the Black Hawks and one of the biggest. He is also the steadiest, and to date, has been enjoying his best season of the 11 he has spent in the NHL... in the past six full seasons he has missed only three games out of 420 the Black Hawks have played in regular NHL competition. "I'm 33 years old, but my legs don't know it," says big, strong, silent Tex Evans. "I don't seem to get tired no matter how rugged or fast the game gets."

"If I'm playing well this year it's because we have a good hockey club . In our end everybody works hard to get the puck out, not just the defensemen. "

While nobody questions Evans' ability as a defenseman, the big Welshman has gained somewhat of a reputation as a scorer this year. Already he has six points. This is a new dimension for the rugged defenseman who in the past three seasons with Chicago totalled only one goal and has had only 20 assists... there is a renewed interest among the fans. "After playing defensive hockey for six years with nobody paying any attention to you, I'm suddenly getting fans coming up to me in the hotel lobbies asking about my goals."

But Evans doesn't mind... nor will it go to his head. He's not the type. The important thing to a player like Tex is keeping the opponents from scoring - and having the black hawks win games as a team.

the quiet spoken rearguard from the Chicago Blackhawks is one of the most consistent rear guards in the NHL. They say Evans never plays a bad game, just, many are better than others. When the Hawks picked him up from the New York Rangers in the summer of 1958 he was regarded as a fringe player, who could never be considered a man on which to build the defense corps around. But Evans has fooled them.. He has blossomed into a star with the Hawks and one of the most able defensemen in the league. He is also something of an Ironman, since he has only missed three games six a half seasons.

blackhawks fans and management were delighted over the selection of defenseman Jack Evans to the National Hockey League second All-Star team at the halfway point in the season."A deserving reward for a man who has worked hard and long in this league and made a real contribution to our effort the season," said coach Rudy Pilous.

...always a good puck carrier but never much of a scorer... Evans has been the steadiest Black Hawk player this year in a season in which the Stanley Cup champions had more than their share of difficulties getting untracked. Not a flashy type for one to go looking for trouble, Evans is a rough, rugged checker who makes few mistakes handling the puck or covering his defensive zone.. He is a solid hockey player who, despite his 33 years, is playing with the conditioning and stamina of a man 10 years younger.

He's one of fastest skating defensemen in league.

since 1956 Evans, a big, straightforward man with a quiet intelligence and poise of maturity, has kept a book on the various phases of hockey play. He has notes on different coaching systems, the styles of play of different teams, the way players forecheck and the styles of various defenseman, how teams work the puck out of their end and how coaches handle their men.

 

[seventieslord]

Andy Moog, G

- 5'8", 175 lbs
- Stanley Cup (1984, 1985, 1987)
- Stanley Cup Finalist (1988, 1990)
- Top-8 in Vezina voting 6 times: 3rd in 1990 (2-2-10), 5th in 1983 (8 pts), 5th in 1991 (0-1-4), 5th in 1993 (0-1-2), 7th in 1991 (0-1-1), 8th in 1987 (0-1-1)
- Top-8 in all-star voting 8 times: 3rd in 1990 (1-12-27), 3rd in 1991 (0-7-16), 4th in 1996 (0-0-4), 5th in 1983 (28 pts), 5th in 1993 (1-3-6), 6th in 1985 (0-1-6), 6th in 1984 (0-3-6), 8th in 1987 (0-0-2)
- Top-10 in minutes twice (6th, 9th)
- Top-10 in sv% 7 times (2nd, 3rd, 5th, 8th, 8th, 8th, 10th)
- Averaged 5 sv% points better than the league average during his career
- 68-57 in the playoffs with sv% 3 points below league average
- Matched Grant Fuhr's regular season performance during their time together in Edmonton (.889-.889)
- Outperformed other Boston goalies (includong Lemelin) .886 to .884 during time in Boston
- Outperformed other Dallas goalies .904 to .896 during time in Dallas
- Played in NHL All-star game (1985, 1986, 1991, 1997)

Andy Moog had two important sources of inspiration for tending goal in his life: his father, Don, who was an outstanding amateur goaltender, and his NHL idol, Gump Worsley, whose picture hung in his locker. Although small, the younger Moog had cat-like reflexes, a quick glove hand, a great sense for positional play and an outstanding ability to control rebounds all of which impressed the scouts.

He was drafted out of the Western Hockey League by the Edmonton Oilers in the seventh round of the 1980 Entry Draft. After spending most of his first two seasons in the minors, Moog played the next five years with the Oilers, teaming with Grant Fuhr to lead the club to three Stanley Cup victories.

By 1987, however, Moog wanted to play a larger role in the playoffs and was unhappy with an Oilers' contract offer. To reinforce his dissatisfaction, he left Edmonton to join the Canadian National Team where, during the Calgary Olympics, he posted a 4-0-0 mark.

In 1988, his dissention was rewarded with a trade to the Boston Bruins where, for five seasons, he gave the Bruins the goaltending foundation they needed. Teamed initially with Reggie Lemelin, Moog took the Bruins to the Stanley Cup finals. He enjoyed his best year in 1989-90 when he and Lemelin won the Jennings Trophy for allowing the fewest goals-against in the regular season. That year, again, the Bruins returned to the Stanley Cup finals as Moog lead all playoff goaltenders with a pair of shutouts and a 2.11 goals-against average.

In 1993, he was traded to the Dallas Stars where, in his first season with the club, he topped the 20-win plateau for the tenth time in his career. Before he was done in the Lone Star State, he'd chalked up his 350th victory and 25th career shutout.

Andy Moog retired in 1998 compiling a 372-209-88 record in 713 NHL games with Edmonton, Boston, Dallas and Montreal, with an 88-57 mark in the playoffs. Those numbers rank him among the all time greats of the game. His regular season victory total at the time ranked seventh among NHL goalies, while his .622 winning percentage is the highest among the 15 goalies who have more than 300 career wins.

"I've had a terrific run," said Moog, who played on three Stanley Cup winners in Edmonton, mostly as a backup to Grant Fuhr

Moog's 18-year career has seen the Penticton native star with Edmonton, Boston and Dallas, and finally Montreal, a city he described as "the best NHL city there is."

...Andy was the 132nd player taken in the 1980 entry draft by the Oilers. The next couple of years Andy apprenticed in the minor leagues with CHL Wichita Wind, where he became an All Star by 1982. In the meantime he did make 15 appearances at the NHL level. He impressed everyone in 1980-81 when the rookie all but came out of nowhere. After 7 games (3 wins, 3 losses) in the regular season, Moog was a surprise started in the playoffs for Edmonton. He went 5-4 as the young Oilers upset the mighty Montreal Canadiens!

After a strong showing like that, 1981-82 must have seen like a bit of a disappointment. Moog spent all but 8 games in the minor leagues. The highly rated Grant Fuhr walked into training camp and stole the starting job from Moog. The Oilers felt that Moog would be better off playing games in the minors than backing up in the NHL.

Moog redeemed himself in 1982-83. It was Fuhr's turn to stumble somewhat and Moog had a spectacular season. He went 33-8-7 in 50 games played and was the regular goalie come playoff time as the Oilers went all the way to the Stanley Cup finals before bowing to the defending champion New York Islanders.

That would be high point for Andy on an individual basis in his 7 year career in Edmonton. He starred with the Oilers for 7 years, winning three Stanley Cups (1984, 1985, 1987). However Moog had to share the puck stopping duties with Grant Fuhr. The dream tandem is one of the better goaltending duos in league history, but it did lead to frustration on Andy's behalf. Fuhr seemed to get the nod for the big games and especially the playoff games. Despite a 143--43-21 record in the regular season, Moog only got to appear in 11 post season games in the three years that he earned a Stanley Cup ring.

Andy did his best to play a team role as the backup but eventually wanted a chance to prove he was a number one goalie. Moog sat out much of the 1987-88 season without a contract and awaiting a trade. He played most of that year with the Canadian National Team and played for Team Canada in the 1988 Winter Olympics in Calgary. The Olympics were special as they were hosted in Canada (Calgary) and Moog was the star. Unfortunately Team Canada finished just out of the medals that year.

Following the Olympics, Moog was traded to Boston in exchange for Geoff Courtnall and Bill Ranford. Moog became one of the most popular sports figures in a town that has many popular sports heroes. Moog led the Bruins to two Stanley Cup Championship series (1988 and 1990), only to fall short to, ironically, his old teammates from Edmonton both times.

Moog was moved on to Dallas for Jon Casey in what became a steal for the Stars in a 1993 off season trade. Casey flopped while Moog had 4 strong seasons

However Dallas felt they needed to get a slightly younger goalie who was capable of playing more games - this despite the fact that Moog posted his best goals against average in his 17th season. They went out and got Eddie "The Eagle" Belfour. Moog didn't want to finish his career as a backup, so he moved on to Montreal where he signed a three year contract in 1997-98.

Lyndon Byers: "All you have to do is think of John Bucyk, Bobby Orr, Derek Sanderson, Wayne Cashman, Ray Bourque, Cam Neely. Then to play on successful teams; honestly, that's what I think about - teammates and former guys. Andy Moog, Ray, Cam, Terry O'Reilly, John Wensink: guys that would bleed to death for you."

Glen Sather watched the youngster in goal and shook his head. "He doesn't stop much in practices, does he? In the game, though, he's almost mechanical the way he makes saves."...Moog has very quietly done a capable job as an NHL netminder. His jump to the majors may have been accelerated by a few years because of Low's misfortune, but Moog is taking it all in stride. He's not sure he belongs in the bigs, but he's not about to turn the gift horse down... "For me to be mentioned in the same class with the best players in North America is hard to comprehend," he shrugged... "He's a good little goalie," says Wayne Gretzky. "What I like about him is that he doesn't give up rebounds." At least not in the games. In workouts, he's liable to do just about everything - except stop the puck. Following in a long line of indifferent practice goalies, Moog's mind wanders. "I'm not a practice goalie. I just don't have the right concentration. I work hard but I can't guarantee I'll stop anything."

"In the first half of (my first game) I was uncoordinated... clumsy... erratic. In the last half, I started feeling better, more confident."... while he only looks about 12 years old, he plays like a veteran...

After nine pressure-packed games against the Canadiens and Islanders, Moog found himself back in the central league... "they gave me a choice. I could go on a holiday or I could go to Wichita. I talked it over with Mr. Sather. He pointed out the pros and cons. As far as I was concerned the pros outweighed the cons. "... Moog was also hungry for more competition... while the youngster has taken a giant step toward the head of the goaltending class, he's still not thought of as a #1. Maybe 1a... in any event, Moog didn't do himself any harm by going to Wichita... he was excited and very sharp in both conquests, a carry-over from the stanley cup shootouts... Sather said, "By going down there and doing as well as he had, well, it shows me what kind of player he is. He could have reacted the other way and taken it easy." But that's not Moog's style. He's the first to admit he still has things to learn.

Oilers thought they had a goaltending problem last winter so they acquired Gary Edwards... maybe they did, but it proceeded to vanish... the man in the nets for all but one period of nine playoff matches was 21-year old Andy Moog. "I think it's fair to say Andy progressed more quickly than we expected," says Edmonton's chief scout, Barry Fraser. "We had him rated as a fine prospect but felt he'd need a good deal of seasoning... But at playoff time, he was the best we had."

There was a new fans' chant instituted at the Coliseum locally last April... "An-dee, An-dee, An-dee..."... the chant was the masses way of expressing gratitude for the Oilers' stunning three game sweep of the Canadiens. Upstart goalie Andy Moog, a virtually unheard of 21-year old prior to the playdowns, was the new-found apple of the populous' eye.[/B] "I like to hear it, but I don't like to think about it. It could make you think you're better than you are. Instead you should just concentrate on your game. "

the appreciative chant, at this writing at least, has not been heard. "It was a short visit to the top, all right."...he fell from the good graces and became the third man in what has become a two-goaltender rotation... "Maybe it's been a lack of concentration on my part," said Moog. "I've been relaxing, thinking I'm into the home stretch. That might have something to do with it."... perhaps he'll play his way back into the NHL and into the hearts of Oiler fans.

The Edmonton Oilers' goaltender, complete with an attitude change, is back in the NHL following a brief exile... Moog has reverted to the form that introduced him to the NHL as one of the ringleaders in the Canadiens' premature dismissal from the 1980-81 playoffs... he is back as the #1 in the eyes of the Northlands Coliseum faithful who affectionately chanted "An-dee, An-dee", as he frustrated the once-mighty Canadiens in a sudden rise to fame... "I no longer think me me me, but it's now we we we. I don't concern myself with my goals against average either, it's only wins and losses..." His finest single game showing on the road was a 6-2 victory in LA on December 23. For 35 minutes, the Oilers were goalless and only Moog stood between the kings widening their 1-0 margin. "Moog was absolutely the difference in the game as far as I was concerned," said LA coach Don Perry, "there were times when we seemed to be tight around the net, but any way you look at it, Moog played a helluva game. he was the one who beat us." It wasn't the first time either. "I really feel comfortable out there," Moog says. "Now is the time in my career for me to start playing this way. I didn't really feel comfortable in the NHL at the time last year. But now I do and I'm determined I'm not going back to the minors."

Andy Moog, in turning aside 48 shots as the Oilers rebounded from back to back home ice losses for a 7-3 conquest, extended his winning streak against the canadiens to four straight, a figure that includes the never-to-be forgotten, three game preliminary round playoff sweep in 1981... "it seems we dwell a little too much on that," added Moog, in an attempt to downplay one of the most stunning upsets in playoff history. "It's always nice to look back upon pleasant memories, but there's too much discussion of that... I just approached it as a regular game with Montreal."

Anchored Oilers' outstanding 1982-83 season and playoff performance after regaining job from Grant Fuhr... a standup goalie who's strong technically... needs only experience to be an all-star candidate.

When the players of the NHL were asked to pick their own all-stars, they named Boston's Pete Peeters as goalie. Second to Peeters was Andy Moog of Edmonton. "The opinion of the other players matters the most of all," says Moog. "Who'd have a better idea than them?" Moog seemed to have the Edmonton netminding job nailed down after a superb showing during the 1981 playoffs but spent much of the following season with the Central League farm team at Wichita. Rookie Grant Fuhr replaced him. So Moog was making a comeback too. And it was Fuhr who briefly ended up in the minors.

Andy Moog appeared in seven playoff games with a perfect 4-0 record. He proved himself to be almost the equal of Fuhr, but without being given the ice time he eventually decided a trade would be best.

Unlike the previous spring, the bulk of the playoff workload last year fell on Grant Fuhr's shoulders - one of the same shoulders - one of the same shoulders that was injured during game 3 of the 1984 final against the Islanders. It was a healthy Moog who finished up for the Oilers' first cup. He wasn't in such an enviable position last May.

...Moog is the "people's choice". That stems back to the unforgettable three-game sweep of the Canadiens in 1981 when a cherubic-faced goaltender came out of Wichita to lead the Oilers to a stunning upset. To those who regularly congregate at the Northlands Coliseum, it would seem he's a hero for life... "That year they identified with one player," said Moog. "Everyone else was there, but they saw only Wayne. I think they wanted somebody else to come along. And I got hot at the right time." Even today the fans' most appreciative response to Oilers named among three star selections is Moog. He can do no wrong. He enjoys the notoriety, but views Fuhr's popularity with mixed emotions. Three seasons ago, at the tender age of 20, Fuhr was roundly booed and responded by labelling the fans jerks. He apologized, but total acceptance has been reluctant. "Grant's statements were meaningless and out of frustration," said Moog, pleading for a break for his teammate.

Andy Moog had been with the Oilers since 1980 and seemed certain to be the #1 man until Fuhr came along and rendered Moog's presence a moot point.

Moog is small and quick on his feet and is an excellent reflex goaltender. But his game is also based on playing his angles properly, especially because he is small, and smart shooters will just put the puck over his shoulder if he hasn't cut the angles correctly. He has a good glove and is sharp with his stick and sees the puck very well, making him effective on screen shots, despite the inequalities in height between him and the league's forwards. Moog skates well and can move the puck but that is not his game and he prefers to leave it for the defense to pick up. He is occasionally sloppy in closing his legs, but that is a mental error and not a physical one, because he has very fast feet. He regains his stance quickly and is very balanced, always in position to make the second save.

Moog has good concentration, though he does suffer those little lapses mentioned above during meaningless games when the result has already been decided. He is mentally tough and will recover from bad goals or games and he has good anticipation of the plays, able to understand what the offense is doing.

The other half of Edmonton's outstanding goaltending tandem... a standup netminder whose style differs greatly from Grant Fuhr's but the results are the same.

The Edmonton Oilers carry two goalies, although now that Sather has taken to breaking his regular rotation, it's unlikely he'll be receiving any dinner invitations from Andy Moog. Despite the fact that it was Moog's turn, Sather went with Fuhr for three straight games after the Oilers had lost a vital home-and-home series to the Flames... Moog said the goalies are generally left in the dark as far as being informed of their assignments beforehand... "they don't tell me diddly. I just play... or don't." Asked how he feels about not playing, Moog replied tersely: "Not good. It's his decision, obviously."... the situation is obviously sticky for Moog. He wants Fuhr and the team to succeed, but he also wants to play a part in that success.

Quickness is the name of Moog's game, and it is a game he plays very well. He plays on the balls of his feet and is an excellent reflex goaltender, a kick save goalie. In prior years, Andy was very scrambly because of his reflexes, but is much more in control now... when he is on, Moog will be perched at the top of his goal crease. When he is having a bad night, however, he will be deep in his net... he moves well to cut off a goal mouth pass... Moog can also come in cold and perform well and he does have the ability to make the big save. An attitude change is the biggest intangible surrounding Moog, but it is a good intangible. He demonstrated last year a new willingness to put team goals ahead of his own. Whereas in the past Moog was very concerned with his numbers, he changed his attitude and cared only for the team... he remains one of the NHL's most underappreciated players, but he and Grant Fuhr team to give the Oilers the best tandem in the NHL.

played out his option, saying he wants to be the #1 starter somewhere in the NHL...

goaltender ratings: each goalie rated from 1-10 in puckhandling, laterl movement, positional play, direct the same, glove, use of feet, recovery ability, balance, quickness. Leaders in total score, /90:

Grant Fuhr 82
Ron Hextall 72
Andy Moog 71
Kelly Hrudey 69
Daniel Berthiaume 67
John Vanbiesbrouck 67
Mike Liut 65
Greg Stefan 65
Mario Gosselin 64
Reggie Lemelin 64

By NHL definition, Andy Moog is a free agent. Free to go anywhere Glen Sather chooses. "Sather is going to trade me for what he wants, not for what I want," Moog grumbled. "free agent is an improper term... everyone's afraid to make an offer. Slats says he'll match any offer. There's an absolute flaw in the system."... Neither the Canucks nor the Penguins are about to sign Moog as a free agent, due to the NHL's stringent compensation of high draft choices and/or top players from the signing team's roster...

Andy Moog is finished as an Oiler, according to his agent... "Under no circumstances will Moog re-sign with the Oilers, the team which holds the trump card in the goalie's bid to escape from the suffocating liberty of NHL free agency... Free agency is a joke, but it's not a very funny joke when you're Andy Moog. It's not a money issue, it's a human rights issue."

he raises his concentration depending on the importance of the contest... without the corps of superstars that surrounded him, Moog will be asked to do more in Boston than he's ever been asked to do before. He'll also have to sit behind Reggie Lemelin. We saw last year that Moog wasn't content to be a backup, and now we'll have to see how he adapts to a new team but the same backup situation.

where his goaltending partner relies on positioning and simplicity, Moog is more flamboyant. Unlike Reggie Lemelin, Moog plays primarily a reflex game - though Andy has toned down his scrambling and flopping. Moog's learned that, as quick as he is, he can't grow. In other words,if he doesn't cut his angles properly, smart shooters will just put the puck over his shoulders all night long. When playing well, Moog will be challenging the shooter from the top of the crease. You'll know he's in trouble when he's deep in his net (though his reflexes are good enough to bail him out even when he's struggling). He's strong to both hands, and Moog sees the puck very well... though he is proficient in using his stick to clear rebounds, Moog doesn't go that second step and handle the puck when he's out of the net. Instead, he prefers to leave it for his defense.

Though he does suffer the occasional mental lapse, Moog has good concentration... he anticipates plays well, particularly around the net, and this allows him to put his spectacular reflexes to work... Moog is a fine complement to Lemelin in a number of ways.

Moog, whose stalwart play allseason had earned him a share of the Jennings trophy, was reduced from superhero to innocent bystander as the Oilers steamrolled their way to another league title. However, Moog, a veteran of ten NHL winters of hockey, has proven his point. It can no longer be said that his success was only the result of the Oilers juggernaut offense. Guarding the net with the Bruins the last two years, Andy has been, well, dandy.

He has very quick feet, but because he plays more of a butterfly style (weight on his inside edges) he's going to give up goals between his legs... Moog is very tough mentally and recovers very well from mental lapses, tough losses or just plain bad goals. In fact, we may be doing him a disservice by saying he recovers well because that implies he suffers after these occasions. At any rate, his further play is untainted. He has excellent concentration and really knows how to play to the occasion, as demonstrated by his playoff performances in general and his play during Boston's triple overtime contest against the Oilers in particular. In short, he can make the big save and win the big game - sometimes all by himself... Moog is a goaltender to bank on, one of the NHL's finest.

Andy has established himself as the #1 man in Beantown. He had an exceptional year in 1989-90, sharing the Jennings trophy... he was exceptional in the playoffs.

very quick with his glove and very fast on his feet... continued his sharp play in the playoffs... a modest man who is always crediting his teammates...

Moog is a quick player who relied on his reflexes to get him into the NHL, then on his improving technique to propel him to the top ranks of the goaltending brotherhood. He challenges shooters aggressively and is a good, balanced skater who is tough to fake. He will wait for the shooter and won't commit himself. His weaknesses are his glove hand and five-hole. He had very quick feet, so he is adept at handling low shots. And while he is also fast on the draw with his glove, he can be beaten over his left shoulder. He concentrates well and sees the puck through traffic. His small stature makes him vulnerable to crease-crashing and opponents try to use that tactic to get Moog off his game. That would seem to prompt a protest from him for stronger net magnets. But Moog has become one of the slyest goalies at knocking the puck off the mooring to stop play, and since he's so well padded, he'll take the tradeoff. Moog is not a good stickhandler and prefers to let his defense do the lugging. He is remarkably adept at guiding his rebounds to his teammates to help turn the flow back up ice.

Moog hates to get beaten, even in practice. He is a very good competitor who is mentally tough. Moog is capable of winning games on his own and inspires great confidence in his teammates. His off nights are rare, and when they come, they are forgotten the next day. he keeps himself in top physical shape, and has tremendous self-confidence.... Moog is probably one of the top five goalies in the NHL in consistency. His intelligence, drive and skills should result in another top season.

There's no doubt that Andy ranks among the league's finest goaltenders.

As consistent as they come...

Moog has always been smart enough to play a sound technical game so that his size is neutralized... he is more effective than bigger goalies since he plays the angles so well. He relied on his reflexes to get him to the NHL, and now they are complemented by his technical play. Moog's physical skills are somewhat limited now. He is weak on the glove side and five hole... he uses a short game well, directing pucks to his defenseman. He directs his rebounds well, and his teammates anticipate this play and turn the attack around very quickly back up ice... Moog is mentally a very tough competitor, one of the best in the game. He is dedicated to his profession and his team. He can bounce right back from a bad effort to turn in a sparkler the next night. He has great concentration through traffic, although he can be screened rather easily because of his size. The new crease rules helped Moog a lot, since in the past the opposition's game plan was to get in on Moog and try to take him off his game by bouncing him around. He is not easily rattled.

A clutch playoff goaltender.

A proven winner, Andy has developed a level of consistency at the sport's most demanding position. Extremely quick, he's a fiery competitor who likes to challenge the shooter.

Moog is a fairly good technical goalie who has relied on his reflexes, but he is getting to the stage in his career where those reflexes might not be enough. He is aggressive and comes so far out of his net that most teams know enough to come down the wing, fake a shot, go around him and pass to an open man for a lot of gimme chip-ins. His five hole is not as good as it should be for a technically good goalie, and he is now more vulnerable high than he was earlier in his career when he had such a good glove hand... few goalies have more chances to break down mentally than Moog. First he became the scapegoat for Boston's more open offensive style... off the ice, he had to deal with family concerns because of the illness of his father. And everything was complicated by his injuries and trade rumours... the unexpected competition from John Blue proved the theory that Moog is always better when he is challenged for his job... the years are starting to catch up to Moog. He is a tough competitor and a consummate pro, but at 34 he's at the point where he has to start sharing the starting role.

one of the NHL's most experienced netminders... he utilizes his quickness and confidence to keep the opposition at bay. Moog is often at his best in big games or high pressure situations.

Moog scrambles back to his feet quickly when he is down, but he keeps to his feet well and plays his angles... he does not handle the puck well and has always well left that chore to his defense... Moog needed a change of scenery after being made the scapegoat for previous Bruins playoff failures... Moog handled sharing duties with Darcy Wakaluk well, but it was an adjustment. The years are starting to catch up to him.

Moog has adopted a stick with the "Curtis curve" (named for Curtis Joseph). It is a bent paddle that makes it easier for the goalie to get his stick to lie flat on the ice across the front of the net - to stop wraparounds and take away low shots. The drawback is that it is harder for a goalie to move his hand down the shaft to pokecheck or otherwise use his stick defensively, but Moog was never that aggressive in those areas, anyway... Moog is the #1 man in Dallas again, and that made him more relaxed and reliable. He allows very few soft goals... he needs to stay healthy and fit, because the stars are relying on him for one, and probably two more seasons as their #1.

at age 35, the aggressive, technically superior stand up netminder had one of his finest seasons.

Moog had a difficult season playing behind an indifferent team defense, and at times his disgust with his teammates' play was visible even through his mask. Given that scenario, and his injuries, Moog's numbers look pretty impressive... it seems like every season, Moog is surviving a challenge from another netminder, and this season it is expected that Roman Turek will provide the competition...

Most teams would welcome him as their backup, but with Dallas that's not the case. The stars need a #1 goalie. That's not Moog. Did perform admirably, however, when called upon last season.

NHL's oldest goalie, who should be declining... underrated reflex netminder who challenges hall of famers for lifetime victories...spectacular stops due to very sharp reflexes. Quick to get up on his feet. Intense competitor.... technique isn't Moog's forte, although it has improved over time. Subject to numerous nagging injuries as he gets older.

 

[seventieslord]

Bill Hay, C

- 6'3", 190 lbs
- Stanley Cup (1961)
- Stanley Cup Finalist (1962, 1965)
- Leading scorer of a cup winner (1961)
- Placed 6th, 7th in center all-star voting
- Top-20 in points 5 times (9th, 11th, 11th, 13th, 18th)
- Best VsX scores: 75, 69, 66, 65, 64, 56, 45
- Top-20 in ESP 5 times (8th, 11th, 14th, 17th)
- Best ES VsX scores: 81, 80, 72, 70, 68, 46, 41
- 2nd, 3rd in NHL in SHP (1965, 1966)
- Was a top penalty killer in 1965 and 1966 on a team 27% better than league average

Bill Hay made a quick impression during his first year in the National Hockey League. A thinking man's centre with excellent stickhandling and skating abilities, Hay captured the 1959-60 Calder Memorial Trophy as Rookie-of-the-Year, cementing himself on the club's number one line for years to come.

Bill would spend the next eight years at centre, most of which was spent on, "The Million Dollar Line", between Bobby Hull and Murray Balfour. Hay played in two All-Star Games and in 1961 led the Hawks in scoring with 59 points, setting a team record for assists with 48 and leading the Hawks to their first Stanley Cup since 1938. Following the 1965-66 season, Hay decided to retire to Calgary where he again followed in his father's footsteps working in the oil industry. The Black Hawks were left with a gaping hole at the centre ice position and General Manager, Tommy Ivan, made every conceivable attempt to coax Hay back. Finally he was successful, and Bill finished out the last half of the 1967 season, leading the Hawks to first place overall for the first time in franchise history.

The rangy redhead was one of the slickest stickhandlers and playmakers in the NHL. He often "quarterbacked" the Hawks power play and provided fine leadership to the team overall. In only his second season with the team he became the assistant captain. As a sophomore he scored 59 points in 69 games and helped Chicago win the Stanley Cup.

A center, Hay contributed mightily to the Blackhawks' last Stanley Cup triumph in 1961 and was one of the most effective skaters in Chicago's ice renaissance. His teammate, Stan Mikita, said it best about Bill. "The trick in making us a winner," said Mikita, "was getting the team working - this is where a leader comes in, and Billy Hay was just such a leader."

Certainly, very few players have ever been as unselfish on the ice, or as self-effacing off it. While known for both his savvy and his stylish puck skills - not to mention his size and aggressive play - Bill seemingly took as much pleasure out of setting up a goal or helping prevent one with a piece of energetic backchecking as he did out of scoring one. He says "I always felt I could help the team more by bringing out the best in players like Bobby Hull than I could by concentrating on myself." ... his rights were purchased from Montreal for the mighty sum of $25,000. "We made quite an effort to get him," said Tommy Ivan. "And he was worth it. I first saw him in school, and I liked him as a player and as a man."

Hay was a big man, an excellent skater and stickhandler.

...Hay soon learned to like the world of ice hockey that most canadians grow up in. "From there you learned how to be competitive and how to enjoy the game. That was all there was to do in the winter in Saskatchewan."...at the time that he broke into the league he was one of the first college graduates to make an appearance, and it had an effect on his initial acceptance into the NHL. "They looked at me as if I was a little different," said Bill when asked about the experience.

"That was the year Chicago had everything," Francis remembers. "...the Mikita line and the Hull line. Then they had Red Hay's checking."

Hay's "phantom goal" in 1967 showed once again the importance of Hay and the other hawk penalty killers that year. They had stolen the puck from the Toronto power play unit to turn a defensive assignment into an offensive opportunity. This kind of theft was frequent with the 66-67 Hawks and never more so than when Hay and Eric Nesterenko, an exceptional penalty killing pair, were on the ice. Two seasons earlier, Nesterenko, assisted largely by Hay, set a league record with six shorthanded goals. As Reay frequently noted, the importance of defensive forwards Hay and Nesterenko was inestimable... midway through the seasonthe hawks staggered and it was clear that they needed to get a center for the Hawks' third, or checking line. They also needed a seasoned player to team up with Nesterenko as a penalty killer... when Toronto refused to deal Red Kelly, Ivan called on Hay in Calgary, urging him to join the team. Hay was reluctant, but finally consented to return... Hay's return was a tremendous stimulus to the Hawks... Hay and Nesterenko made the perfect penalty killing unit Both were tall, were experienced and had the skating skill and deceptiveness required of defensive forwards. "Hay and I have been playing so long together that we don't even have to holler to eachother," said Nesterenko. "We sense what we're going to do, where we are going to be. It's impossible to explain, but it's something that can only be acquired after years of playing together!"

Hay was also an offensive threat... Rudy Pilous, his first Hawk coach, once summed up the skills of the quiet, efficient Hay. "He has got a tremendous reach, for one thing. He uses the longest stick permissible. And he has strong arms. He can edge the puck past the other guy, which is why so few of them are stolen away from him. He also has good instincts. His instinct tells him when there are guys alongside him or behind him. When he comes up the ice he's looking straight ahead. He's deceptive that way. But his mind is working. As he's coming in, he may have three different plays in mind."

Hay's contributions off the icemay have been even more important than those on it. He was the natural leader of the Hawks. Though Pilote was the team captain, it was Hay the players looked up to and respected, whose advice they accepted without question. He was quiet but when he spoke it was with penetrating wit...

A quiet, unaffected skater, Red showed well in training camp and has gradually worked his way upward in the Hawk lineup. He was used sparingly at first... when he did play, Hay found his linemates different almost every time... until about five weeks ago when he found himself suddenly inserted into a line with Bobby Hull and Eric Nesterenko at his sides as a fill-in for Phil Maloney. He seemed to like it from the start... Hay was bounced around for a few more times before finally being installed between Bobby and "Nester" for good and it only took a few games to prove that he was no fluke... the big redhead is at the bottom of the scoring on the line, but still has earned the approval of both Ivan and Pilous for his veteranish savvy both on the attack and defensively and it must be admitted that any first year man with such qualities will certainly be around for more than a few seasons... Hull's flash to a contending spot in the NHL scoring race has earned a big assist for Hay from Pilous who points out, "Bobby seems to be enjoying wing for the first time since he was changed, and Red has already set him up beautifully a number of times."

"Hay has matured as a respected NHLer this season," says coach Pilous. "He's not scoring as many goals as last year buth e's just as valuable a player. More valuable. We use him in tougher spots, against centers like Kelly and Beliveau. And we use him on the point in the powerplay sometimes, and when the going gets rough. He has become a useful, all-around hockey pro like Murphy and Nesterenko. Maybe not spectacular but a real workmanlike player."

Canadiens had an impressive crop of young candidates at the 1958 camp... most of them had much more rugged experience in minor pro and Eastern Canada junior competition. Young Hay caught the eye of sideliners chiefly because he towered above all the rookies, and stood shoulder to shoulder with Jean Beliveau. "He's as green as grass," coach Toe Blake explained when the writer checked on our fellow townsman... "he's never been used to the slam-bang hockey the kids dish out in this country. That U.S. college hockey is prety tame. It's going to take him two years in tough minor company to adjust his style. He has good size, handles a puck well but he's far behind most of the boys in other ways."... he developed slowly but surely and got a thorough education in hockey the hard way. "I soon realized what Toe Blake had told me about the necessity to forget my college tactics, defend myself at all times and learn to use my body and elbows and arms."

"He wasn't any ball of fire," says Hawks coach Rudy Pilous in recalling Bill's early workouts in the Chicago camp. "He still had a lot of those U.S. college moves. He could handle a puck with the best of them but couldn't break a pane of glass with his shot. And he was pushed around a lot, because, despite his size, it was apparent he hadn't been used to mixing like kids get in the touch junior OHA."

Pilous was talking about Hay again during the Hawks-Canadiens series. "Billl is the most improved kockey player in the NHL. He's getting more aggressive all the time. They're not pushing him around anymore. He's taking care of himself out there. His one bad habit is too much stickhandling. He's got to shoot more, even if his shot hasn't improved much. But he's a good team player and he's good defensively as well as on offense. He can develop a shot if he works on it... I hope he doesn't (retire now that he's made it). He's a fine boy. He has good hockey brains. He can go far. He could be one of the best centers in the league."

a fine playmaker.

A healthy Bill Hay may be all the Stanley Cup champion Chicago Black Hawks need to cure their sputtering offense. Hay never has dazzled too many NHL teams with his scoring talent. But his playmaking proficiency is something else… Hay set up four goals as the Hawks drubbed the Maple Leafs 6-0… Without Hay, the Hawks’ offense was punchless. In the 9 games the centre missed, it produced only 16 goals as the Hawks went 1-5-3.

Is Red Hay slowly but surely emerging as the leader of the Stanley Cup champion Blackhawks? The big center certainly has the respect of his teammates. He is one of the slickest puck carriers and stickhandlers in the NHL. He is the playmaker who makes the Million Dollar Line tick smoothly on offense... he is the quarterback of the Blackhawks' new-found power play... last year he began to assert himself more on the ice. A lady byng type perfomer his first season and a half, the big redhead toward the end of the season began throwing a few elbows around and doing a little heavy checking - rather than merely taking the puck away from enemy players with his clever stickhandling. He was also shooting the puck at the net more often... he is not a spectacular type of player in the dashing manner of linemate Hull. Nor is he a big talker in the locker room, or an aggressive spark like Reg Fleming. But he is smart and poised and respected. He is also consistent - seldom a bad game, seldom a mistake either on offense or defense. He is quiet off the ice but his play commands attention. His maturity is another asset for leadership. The Blackhawks need a leader, they can't afford any more floundering this season. Red Hay, if he continues to combine is new-found aggressiveness and willingness to shoot more, with his established playmaking ability, may be just the leader coach Pilous needs to move the Blackhawks to the top of the NHL ladder.

Billy Hay, generally regarded as the leader of the rough, tough Hawks... there are few playmakers to equal him in the league... not a great goal scorer, he nevertheless provides the spark and leadership that the Hawks need to keep them in there.

It has been said of Hay that if he shoots the puck at the net early in the game and doesn't score a goal, he spends the rest of the evening passing the puck to his linemates... in Hay's case, this isn't a bad thing... the big center may possibly be the most unselfish player in the league... Says Hay: "I knew I had to earn a place for myself that first season and I went out to try and score goals. that's the quickest way for a rookie to let people know he's around. Admittedly, I don't shoot the puck as much now as I did my first year. Admittedly, I don't shoot the puck as much now as I did my first year. But why should I? I have two wings who know how to score. My big job is to get the puck to them in front of the net... I'll change when somebody tells me my lack of shooting hurts our hockey club. In the meantime I get just as much satisfaction out of being the playmaker..." Hay has one of the longest reaches and uses one of the longest sticks in the NHL. This gives him uncanny control of the puck as he moves, almost slow motion, up the ice looking for a teammate to feed. He is also one of the best in the NHL at intercepting passes by opponents - again because of his extra long reach and his anticipation. Says linemate Balfour, "Bill's reach and shift are physical assets but where his biggest improvement has come this year is in his aggressiveness and anticipation. Perhaps, like with me, he has become more aggressive each year with the added confidence of playing in the NHL for several seasons. And his anticipation in intercepting opposing passes, and his forechecking are a result of experience and studying the other teams' moves - particularly those of the defensemen."

rated one of the best playmakers in the league... important cog in the success of Bobby Hull.

Known around the NHL as an exceptional stickhandler and playmaker, the chicago blackhawk center has suddenly turned goal scorer... Hay hit a drought for eight games during which time he also was shifted to the checking line in an effort to give Chicago better overall balance... Says Murray Balfour: "He used to be shy about shooting if he didn't score a goal the first time he tried in a game. This year he keeps shooting all during a game whenever he has a good opening." Added Hull: "Bill is playing better this year and the puck is coming to him more. When this happens he should be shooting more. Once they start going in... other teams are going to watch him closer and it opens things up for his wings." Says Hay: "Murray and Bobby were after me to shoot more for the past two years. I guess I am looking for more opportunities now than before. But I'm still not going to throw the puck away just to take a shot - especially if my wings are in good position. I still feel my main job is to feed my wings for goals... it's not the number of shots you take that count. It's the number that go in."

one of the big question marks on the Hawks roster before this season started was Bill Hay... last season was his poorest in the NHL, although only by comparison to previous accomplishments... the big gap at center was left squarely up to Hay. And the redhead has responded in championship form... Hay feels he is in better shape and has a better mental attitude toward the game this season.

Bill is one of the biggest NHL forwards.

Billy Hay may have been forced out of a regular job as top blackhawk center by two pair of younger legs but the 29-year old veteran refuses to be shoved into the shadows at the end of the bench. The big redhead is fashioning a new career for himself as a handyman... when the Hawks failed to break smartly from the gate, coach Reay decided to move the younger and somewhat quicker Phil Esposito into the spot... Hay was dropped back to the center spot on the third line... the injury of Mohns gave Hay his chance to get back to work regularly and establish himself as a willing performer in any role... Reay checked with Hay to learn if he'd ever played LW and learned that he had, as an amateur. That was all he needed to know... seldom since his debut has he failed to turn in a solid all around performance in the strange position. "I'm more than satisfied with his play," said Reay. "In fact, I'd have to say Red has been one of the most important guys on the team during our move from 5th place into contention".

If the Blackhawks hang on and bring Chicago its first NHL championship, coach Billy Reay just might start a movement to have a statue of Bill Hay occupy a prominent spot in front of the new civic center. The big redhead drew his latest raves from the boss for performances as Chico Maki's sub at right wing for Esposito and Hull... Hay also replaced Mohns at LW on the Mikita-Wharram line... "You can't really say enough about Red's work for the last couple of months," said Reay. "He's just been great. When you consider he's been a center all of his career, Red's made all the switches in fine style. He never said a thing, no matter what we asked of him... just went out and did a job. He's checked well, killed penalties, carried the puck out of our end and made plays. I don't know where we'd be without him." Unfortunately, Reay's enthusiasm for Bill's work isn't always shared by Chicago's demanding fans, who seem at times more concerned over Red's few shortcomings than they are with his many talents. His lack of quickness is a major sin in the eyes of the fans. Boos generally follow when he fails to beat an opposing defenseman on a partial breakaway or fails to draw away from his checker. But Red's tenacious checking and brilliant puckhandling somehow manage to go unnoticed. Reay conceded that Red is among the more misunderstood but adds: "We just ignore the fan reaction in Bill's case because we know the job he's doing."

Bill Hay is one man who belies the gossip around the NHL that the Hawks are a team of two or three individuals and when they aren't going the Hawks are in trouble. Hay spends his winters playing hockey as though his life depended on it...when the whistle blows, Hay doesn't look back. He's going all out and usually is pitted against the biggest man on the opposition. For instance, Reay always puts Hay out against the great gordie Howe and in the past two years he has held up his end pretty well. Howe scores now and then but usually it is on the power play when he gets free in the melee around the net... in the last few years, Hay has been teamed with Eric Nesterenko on penalty killing and the two are possibly the best in the league... Hay admits he isn't the league's strongest skater, but he makes up for it in sheer work and hustle, which is rubbing off on some of the younger players.

Bill hay's record for his first seven games with the Hawks since he was induced to come out of retirement reads: 0 goals, 1 assist. But the Hawks' record during that same stretch: 5 wins, 1 loss, 1 tie. And it's no coincidence, as far as Billy Reay is concerned, that the team's surge to a five-point hold on the league lead occurred while Hay was checking and hustling as center for Eric Nesterenko and Dennis Hull. "There's just no doubt about it," said Reay. "Bill's value to us is tremendous, whether he scores or not. In fact, when we talked him into reporting we weren't thinking in terms of goals. We wanted his checking and penalty killing and steady all-around play and that's what we got. He's an NHLer and a good one and any team that can pick one up like that in the middle of the season has to consider itself lucky."... The Nesterenko-Dennis Hull unit began to function smoothly. It was apparent that Hay still had a long way to go as far as conditioning was concerned, but his experience and innate craftiness enabled Bill to compensate by anticipating the play and being in the right spot ahead of time. "Only a player as smart as Bill could have played a full NHL game with only a couple of days of skating behind him," said Reay. "he made a difference right from the start, just by staying in position in both ends of the ice and using his good size to his advantage". A noticeable difference also was made by Hay's presence with Nesterenko on the Hawks' penalty killing crew. The Hawks have been killing off penalties pretty well all season but at the expense of having to use Bobby Hull and Mikita against the opposition ganging attack. With Hay back on duty, Bobby and Stan go over the boards while the Hawks are shorthanded only in dire emergencies. "The secret with Bill," said Reay, "is his consistency. he doesn't give a couple of brilliant performances and then tail off. You can count on him game in and game out to make the right moves, the big ones that help a team win. Sure, he'll put the puck in the net for you now and again but that's not his big value. His value comes from the balance he gives a team." Hay actually is far from being a lost cause on offense., although he has to depend more on accuracy than a dazzling shot...

Hay Made Hawks "Great" Team

The third line was Reay's biggest problem. This was revealed when consistent Red Hay was lured out of retirement last month...The return of Hay, 31, touched off a record Hawk unbeaten streak.

Reay says that the Hawks were only one player short of having a great hockey team "and then Hay came back and he was the one we needed. Any team that can pick up a centre like him in the middle of the season has to consider itself pretty lucky."

The Hawks' basic success in bidding for their first NHL title in 41 years rests with the incredible Mikita and his Scooter line; the continued sharpshooting of Bobby Hull; the improvement of his brother Dennis, making the third line a scoring threat, the return of Hay; fine penalty killing, especially of Hay and Nesterenko; the outstanding goalie duo; and strengthening the defence corps with the addition of Ed van Impe.

The disciplined hockey that Toronto plays so well in the playoffs suits Chicago utility man Bill Hay perfectly. “This playoff style of hockey is best for me”, he said… Hay has been a standout throughout the series. Billy Reay said Tuesday following a 3-1 loss that Hay was his best player that night. “I’ve enjoyed this season, said the rangy 190 pounder who enjoyed a brief retirement after numerous pleas by GM Tommy Ivan. Ivan said Hay provided the balance the Hawks needed to win the NHL championship. “My job is to play LW or center and kill penalties. I do what Billy Reay asks me to do.”

Top 30 NHL scorers during Hay's NHL career, from 1959-60 to 1966-67
[table="css=transp;head"]Rk | Player | GP | G | A | P | ESP | PPP | SHP | ESP/70 | PPP/70 | SHP/70
1 | Bobby Hull | 534 | 339 | 278 | 617 | 439 | 164 | 14 | 58 | 21 | 2
2 | Gordie Howe | 552 | 231 | 364 | 595 | 374 | 197 | 23 | 47 | 25 | 3
3 | Stan Mikita | 546 | 214 | 367 | 581 | 398 | 178 | 5 | 51 | 23 | 1
4 | Norm Ullman | 549 | 223 | 293 | 516 | 387 | 116 | 13 | 49 | 15 | 2
5 | Andy Bathgate | 536 | 176 | 338 | 514 | 363 | 150 | 1 | 47 | 20 | 0
6 | Jean Beliveau | 487 | 191 | 314 | 505 | 321 | 184 | 0 | 46 | 26 | 0
7 | Alex Delvecchio | 558 | 188 | 295 | 483 | 323 | 142 | 17 | 41 | 18 | 2
8 | Henri Richard | 507 | 178 | 302 | 480 | 391 | 86 | 3 | 54 | 12 | 0
9 | Frank Mahovlich | 537 | 234 | 240 | 474 | 352 | 121 | 1 | 46 | 16 | 0
10 | John Bucyk | 514 | 171 | 256 | 427 | 318 | 105 | 3 | 43 | 14 | 0
11 | Bill Hay | 506 | 113 | 272 | 385 | 275 | 101 | 9 | 38 | 14 | 1
12 | Murray Oliver | 472 | 147 | 235 | 382 | 294 | 86 | 2 | 44 | 13 | 0
13 | Dave Keon | 472 | 161 | 217 | 378 | 275 | 89 | 14 | 41 | 13 | 2
14 | Dean Prentice | 500 | 166 | 205 | 371 | 292 | 73 | 5 | 41 | 10 | 1
15 | Ken Wharram | 517 | 185 | 182 | 367 | 287 | 79 | 1 | 39 | 11 | 0
16 | Red Kelly | 520 | 125 | 241 | 366 | 280 | 78 | 8 | 38 | 11 | 1
17 | Bob Pulford | 522 | 154 | 195 | 349 | 285 | 41 | 23 | 38 | 5 | 3
18 | Pierre Pilote | 517 | 57 | 292 | 349 | 219 | 121 | 9 | 30 | 16 | 1
19 | Claude Provost | 528 | 153 | 192 | 345 | 277 | 57 | 11 | 37 | 8 | 1
20 | Bernie Geoffrion | 349 | 163 | 182 | 345 | 215 | 129 | 1 | 43 | 26 | 0
21 | George Armstrong | 522 | 137 | 199 | 336 | 252 | 72 | 12 | 34 | 10 | 2
22 | Bobby Rousseau | 421 | 127 | 202 | 329 | 222 | 101 | 6 | 37 | 17 | 1
23 | Ralph Backstrom | 545 | 143 | 183 | 326 | 293 | 32 | 1 | 38 | 4 | 0
24 | Doug Mohns | 517 | 125 | 196 | 321 | 214 | 102 | 5 | 29 | 14 | 1
25 | Phil Goyette | 477 | 98 | 216 | 314 | 242 | 71 | 1 | 36 | 10 | 0
26 | Don Marshall | 549 | 142 | 159 | 301 | 226 | 53 | 22 | 29 | 7 | 3
27 | Bob Nevin | 458 | 126 | 173 | 299 | 221 | 70 | 8 | 34 | 11 | 1
28 | Don McKenney | 416 | 115 | 171 | 286 | 206 | 78 | 2 | 35 | 13 | 0
29 | Camille Henry | 360 | 155 | 123 | 278 | 185 | 93 | 0 | 36 | 18 | 0
30 | Dick Duff | 503 | 124 | 140 | 264 | 208 | 54 | 2 | 29 | 8 | 0[/table]

Hay was 11th in scoring over this time. He played with Bobby Hull for some of this time, which must have boosted his point totals to some degree, but he's far from the only player on this list to be the defensive conscience for a more skilled linemate.

Why did Bill Hay only play 8 NHL seasons?

He was a Montreal Canadiens prospect as a Regina Pat, but chose to study chemical engineering at Colorado College instead of trying for the NHL. After graduating, he played a year of minor hockey (nobody in those days went from college into the NHL) and then broke in with Chicago at age 24.

He retired at age 31 and went directly into a good job in the oil industry. Tommy Ivan convinced him to come back for one more shot in the second half of the 1967 season, but after that he was done with hockey. He went on to be very successful in the oil industry, and is currently the HHOF president.

Hay was a very good NHL player - he just had other options and other interests.

 

[seventieslord]

Marty Burke, D

- 5'8", 160 lbs
- Stanley Cup (1930, 1931)
- 5th in defensemen all-star voting (1932)
- Best defense vsx scores: 54, 41, 40, 28, 25, 23
- Played 11 full seasons in a highly competitive era with just 24-32 full-time jobs (average SRS +0.10)
- Missed just 22 games in 11 seasons

Defenceman Marty Burke played nearly 500 games in the 1920s and '30s. He was a adept at taking opposition forwards out of the play and feeding the puck up to his forwards. He could also play a nastier brand of hockey if matters on the ice required it.

The Toronto native played with the St. Mary's junior and senior squads before spending two years with the Stratford Indians of the OHA senior league. After playing the 1926-27 season with the Port Arthur Ports, Burke joined the Montreal Canadiens for eleven games then was loaned to the Pittsburgh Pirates for the remainder of the schedule. He returned to Montreal the next year and remained a member of their defensive brigade for nearly five years. He was an integral part of the club that won consecutive Stanley Cups in 1930 and 1931.

Following a trade, Burke spent the last 16 games of the schedule on the Ottawa Senators before returning to Montreal for the 1933-34 season. On October 3, 1934 he was part of a major trade that saw Lorne Chabot and Howie Morenz join him in Chicago in return for Lionel Conacher, Roger Jenkins, and Leroy Goldsworthy. Burke spent over three years solidifying the Hawks defense then returned to the Canadiens early in the 1937-38 season. Burke retired that spring then spent a year coaching the senior Saskatoon Quakers.

Like Cy Wentworth, Marty Burke very likely will never be in the Hockey Hall of Fame, because he focused strictly on playing defense. That's how it was, mostly, in the 1930s. Defenders like Burke just stayed back while the forwards strutted their stuff on offense. It was Burke's job to shut down such flashy attempts by the other team, usually in emphatic physical fashion.

Frequent mention of his fine defensive support for Chabot finally got Burke some recognition. He was as effective the following year in front of rookie goaler Mike Karakas.

In 494 career NHL games, Marty Burke scored just 19 goals and 66 points. But he was a solid defensive defenseman who was a nice part of two Stanley Cup championships.

The game ended when defenseman Marty Burke broke up a Boston attack and carried the puck down the ice. Center Pit Lepine was on his left; winger Wildor Larouchelle was open on the right. Burke passed to Larouchelle at a bad angle. The crowd rose to its feet. Larouchelle faked a shot to the far side. Tiny Thompson shifted that way. Larouchelle pulled the puck back, snapped his wrists, and picked the opening.

Burke was a rough defenseman...

Burke will likely prove a tower of strength on the defense.

Marty Burke, crack defense star who came here from Les Canadians... Will be injected into the pirate combination against the Hawks... Both McCaffrey and Burke arrived in town today. The latter played his last game at the flying Frenchmen against maroons Thursday night… Burke is certain to start with Smith on the defense… With Burke and McCaffrey in the fold the pirate followers are looking for the Bucs to come through with their first victory of the season tonight.

manager Cleghorn will likely have to get along without the services of Marty Burke, his star defenseman, who has been laid up with a severe cold since his team arrived from Chicago.

Pittsburgh Pirates, sensation of the American section of the NHL, will meet Ottawa here Thursday night… Right now pirates are trampling roughshod all over opposition. From being a doormat of the league they have become in a month the most feared team in the NHL… It all came about because of the trade that on the surface looked inconsequential... pirates were desperate and sold Charlie Langlois to Canadians and Marty Burke, who couldn't get sufficient work with the habitants, and then had the disability of not having a French name, was shunted to smoketown. Bert McCaffrey couldn't jibe with Connie Smythe in Toronto, and he figured in a roundabout trade which sent arbor to Chicago and Rodden Toronto. the two Irishmen met in Pittsburgh and they settle down to the business of stiffening up the pirate defense.… After a few games Pirates were back on the hockey map and the squalpeens that Tumbling all and sundry were Burke and McCaffrey, the Irish defenseman who were not good enough for other teams. Connie Smythe would give a lot to have McCaffrey now, and Cecil Hart must often repent of sending Burke to Pittsburgh… In any event it was a Tradewind that has blown Pittsburgh into a chance for a playoff…

Herbie Gardiner will be missing from the defence, having been sold to Chicago where he is acting as manager. In his place there will be the find of last season, Marty Burke. This youngster was loaned by Canadiens to Pittsburgh last year and twice during the season he turned back his former mates and was actually responsible for their defeat by the Pirates on their own ice. Mantha will pair with Burke on the regular defence, making one of the strongest back-lines in the major league.

Marty Burke, stellar Canadien defenseman had his right ear cut by a skate and was forced to retire for medical attention... Canadians were the better in the second session and in the third up until Burke was injured.

Marty Burke will likely be back with them against the Hawks and the defence will be accordingly strengthened. Canadiens' defence did not look any too good against Ottawa with the sturdy Irishman sitting on the bench in civvies.

An injury to Frank Boucher put the Rangers out of calculations for winning of the Stanley Cup. Frank Boucher, second high scorer in the league, and Ranger candidate for the most valuable player trophy, suffered a broken collar bone in a crash with Marty Burke, of the Canadiens.

Marty Burke started the play. He moved up the ice in characteristic weaving fashion, and as Owen met him with a crushing body check, he passed over to Larochelle on the right...Again Thompson blocked it, but this time the puck bounced out to the left, and George Mantha, hurtling in at breakneck speed, beat Oliver to the rubber...The red light flashed and the game was over. They pushed young Mantha to the dressing room with hearty thumps on the back to the tune of ringing cheers, but few noticed that Marty Burke, who had started the play was helped off in fainting condition from the smashing check he took from Owen when he passed over to Larochelle

....With the two Mantha brothers in a starring role, the remainder of the team filled feature positions. Marty Burke was a huge strength on the Canadien defence, taking men out of the play with deftness and pounding out body checks with a viciousness that approached those of Eddie Shore.

Marty Burke, regular defence star...on the ailing list.

The winning goal came after Boston's forwards neglected to chase Burke very strenuously, for the Irishman is not considered dangerous as a rusher. They paid for their mistake with the game, for Burke, stick-handling his way down the left boards, espied Larochelle way over on the right rink boards.

Just as the Bruins defense moved to check, Burke, the Irishman sent a perfect, rink-wide pass on Larochelle's blade, and the latter coasted in from the right before firing from about 10 feet out.

On the Canadien defence, Marty Burke, stood out like a beacon. For stamina as well as for effective blocking, Burke has been a standout during the playoff series. On Saturday night he played practically for sixty minutes, not spectacularly, but precisely and brilliantly.

The Habitant defense star, Marty Burke and Sylvio Mantha, with George Hainsworth in goal, did the rest, checking the fast skating Chicago forwards into submission.

On defense, Sylvio Mantha and Marty Burke repeatedly broke up the New York attack, although the Cook brothers, Bill and Bun, got past them for three scores.

"Senators trade Starr and Bourgault for canadiens' defense star" - The Ottawa president was enthusiastic over the deal, and is of the opinion that the acquisition of Burke, conceded to be one of the standout defense man of the National Hockey League, will give the Senators one of the best defenses in the Calder circuit for the drive down the home stretch. Burke is a sturdy blocker and should fit in well with Alan Shields and Harvey Rockburn.

Chicago gets a husky, hard-hitting left defenseman in Marty Burke, Toronto born veteran...Burke, not the rushing type of defense player has scored less than 20 goals as a pro.

...and an added thrill came in a third period fight between Cy Wentworth and Marty Burke.

Marty Burke, who came to the Hawks from Canadiens with Morenz and goalie Lorne Chabot, will team with big Art Coulter on the first defence line.

Marty Burke and Baldy Northcott got into a fight and also were handed misconduct tickets.

it was a wide-open contest, featured by Cude's brilliant netminding in the first period, the aggressive than smooth play of Brown, and the superlative two-way performance of Marty Burke. Burke played a sturdy blocking and bumping defensive game and added to his effectiveness by figuring into goals with assists... Burke hit Des Smith with a jolting body check in the second period Last night and sent him flying over his shoulder. Smith had to retire from action... "Guess I can't take it," Des Grinned wryly after the game. Des has proven he can take it all right. But that was an extraordinarily jarring check Burke laid into him.

 

[seventieslord]

Doug Bodger, D

- 6'2", 201 lbs
- Best Defense VsX scores: 70, 64, 64, 57, 57, 54, 47
- Averaged 23.28 minutes per game (16.31 at ES) for 1071 games for teams 4% below average
- In his 8-season prime, averaged 24.95 minutes per game (17.00 at ES) for teams 1% better than average
- Top-4 in team TOI all 15 seasons of his career: 1, 1, 1, 1, 1, 1, 2, 2, 2, 2, 2, 3, 4, 4, 4
- Top-4 in team ES TOI 14 times: 1, 1, 1, 1, 2, 3, 3, 4, 4, 4, 4, 4, 4, 4
- Killed 44% of penalties for teams 8% better than average on the PK
- 296 career PPP

Doug Bodger was a mobile defenceman with excellent offensive instincts who spent sixteen years in the NHL. He was an asset on the power play and transition game and later added veteran composure to his team's blueline corps.

...The young blueliner scored 31 points as a rookie and saw plenty of action on the power play. He continued to mature over the next four seasons and represented Canada when it finished fourth at the 1987 World Championships. Early in the 1988-89 season, Bodger was part of the package sent to the Buffalo Sabres for star goalie Tom Barrasso.

Bodger spent parts of eight seasons in Buffalo where he topped the 40-assist mark twice and played on both specialty teams. He became a workhorse at both ends of the ice and was a leader in the dressing room. When the Sabres retooled in 1995-96, the veteran backliner was sent to the San Jose Sharks where he added mobility and experience to the young defence. When the club missed the playoffs, Bodger joined Team Canada at the World Championships where it won a silver medal.

Part-way through the 1997-98 season, the close-checking New Jersey Devils sought Bodger's talent for their relatively pedestrian blueline. In the off-season, he returned to California as a member of the improving Los Angeles Kings. Bodger moved up the "left coast" as a free agent to add savvy to the Vancouver Canucks defense in 1999-2000 but retired after dressing for only 13 games.

A solid defenseman with speed and a booming shot from the point...

Bodger was a rushing defenseman, a guy who loved Bobby Hull's slapshot and perfected his own, but a product of the Bobby Orr school of brilliance, watching #4 go end to end with the puck.

The word most often used to describe rookie defenseman Doug Bodger is "character". "He's got great character," said GM Eddie Johnston. "Doug is a hockey player that I classify as a character youngster," said coach Bob Berry... Johnson compares Bodger to Larry Robinson... "He's a big guy. He plays with a lot of poise for an 18-year old boy."... "I'm pretty happy with my year so far," Bodger said. "I never expected to do as well as I'm doing. I wasn't even sure I was going to be here... a lot of guys have been helping me out. I'm still a little nervous at times, but that's going to come with experience."

"He's a very quiet man," said Berry. "I don't think he's overly flashy on the ice. He's a very, very steady defenseman. He's been more or less thrown into the fire in some ways because for an 18-year old defenseman, he's seen an awful lot of action. Rather than bring him along and use him as the fifth or sixth defenseman, he's been forced to get his experience under fire. Sometimes that's very difficult. He's responded very well, and he's going to be a great player in the league."

tailed off after and excellent start, but is quality goods... a player that the Penguins can build their defense around... strong, mobile, good playmaker...

Bodger learned the other half of his trade - skating - with a little help from Grandma. "I started skating when I was three or four and my grandma used to hold me by the jacket... I used to get a dime for every lap I went around without falling down."

"I definitely was offensive, always. I think I'm learning more defense now. As long as the team wins, I'm happy."

"I'm from a really small town. Our teams were never really that good. We had an average team, we didn't go too far and we weren't really competitive. You know, I was playing on my team, and I'd get really frustrated out there. I think I developed just on desire and hard work."

Defenseman Doug Bodger is beginning to display some of the offensive abilities that Prompted Pittsburgh to choose him 9th overall in the draft... "Last year I was uptight and nervous," admitted Bodger. "The season wasn't as great as it could have been, but I was happy with it. The team needed defense, and I knew if I wanted to, I could come play here. For an 18-year old to come into this league, I think is too young, even now. But they wanted me to play here on defense, so I had a lot of ice time. I learned a lot. I think I handled it in a good way, but I still think it's too young. It's so much responsibility." Penguin coach Bob Berry thinks Bodger adjusted well. "I thought he played very well last year," Berry said. "You've got to remember that for a young kid coming in he was put in a lot of pressure type situations - and I think because of that he developed pretty well." Bodger said one of the major adjustments he had to make was concentrating on defense on a team that gave up the second highest number of goals in the league last season. "I was worried about making the play and getting caught. I was very hesitant. I just thought about staying home, trying to do my job and get the puck out of our end. It was in our end a lot last year." Bodger's confidence has grown with his improved play. "I"ve been getting a lot of ice time and I feel really confident out there," he said. "I've got my confidence back. I'm not as nervous as I was last year. Last year when I was struggling a lot, I wasn't making good plays. I was making bad passes. I'm making the good plays now. Last year I didn't really want to play the power play, but this year I feel more relaxed. In junior, my biggest asset was the power play, my shot from the point. And now that the team is doing a lot better. I've had a little more chance to concentrate on offense. That's been my big game all through the years."

no sophomore jinx here... quality skater behind blue line who is a wonderful complement to Mario Lemieux...

Bodger's skating is above average, and he may be the best skating defenseman on the penguins. He moves the puck well from his own end because he can skate, but he also uses his teammates well and passes to them effectively. Bodger has good vision and anticipation, reading the play fairly well and is both mobile and smart enough not to be beaten too often one on one. He has a decent shot from the point and should shoot more to gain confidence in it, but Bodger might already know that his shot will not beat NHL goaltenders too often.

Doug is fairly good when things get tough around the net, using his size effectively, if not punishingly. In that respect (and along the boards) his physical ability needs to improve. He is still a youngster though, which means he's still growing, so Bodger may simply grow into that physical dominance. He can also improve using his size to his advantage, as in improving his use of his reach and developing his strength. Bodger wants to improve and has a good attitude about it. He is a good worker and is coachable... the only defenseman on the roster who can ever achieve something above journeyman status... has all the tools to become a better player down the road.

(in junior) he could drive the puck past almost anybody, and shoot it through the rest. Had the kind of passing touch folks in Pittsburgh had come to expect from Terry Bradshaw. But not until this season has Bodger shown signs of becoming a significant offensive threat. He is dissecting plays with meticulous precision, making quick and certain judgments on the validity of scoring opportunities... "I'm seeing the play a lot better. I'm more aware of what's going on, where everybody is and how quick I have to be. It's my third year. I know the league." the strain of being thrown to the wolves as an 18-year old showed in everything from Bodger's style to his stat sheet. "It's typical of any young kid," said Johnston. "Once things aren't going very well for them, they're afraid of getting caught, afraid of gambling and getting burned. I think he got burned a couple of times early, and that's probably the main reason he didn't get involved in the offense as much as he should." Bodger said a lack of effort, not ability, was his primary problem. "I got lazy, I got slow. Toward the end of last year, guys were walking around me and I was doing stupid things. Maybe I didn't feel the pressure to perform, because I was in the background of Mario. Maybe I didn't push myself enough, as a first pick. Maybe I said, well I can just coast and play in the background."... so while Lemieux was busy chiseling out his niche among the game's dominant players, Bodger struggled to grasp the subtleties and responsibilities of his job. Somewhere along the way, the offensive skills for which the Penguins drafted him were replaced. "I think Dougie was just so worried about his defense," Mantha said. "he tried to take care of his zone and let the offensive zone take care of itself."

struggled a little in his rookie season as an 18 year old... "maybe I didn't push myself enough," he admits. "I'm more aware of what's going on now."

He can carry the puck from the Penguins zone and he does so with confidence. He'll join the attack from the blueline if he can, and Bodger is smart enough - and poised enough - to know when to fall back on defense. Doug uses his teammates very well, and will continue to improve, because he sees the ice very well and has the hands to make the passes. Defensively, he consistently makes the safe, smart plays to get the puck out of the zone, and he forces the play wide when it is coming at him. His puck handling and vision skills make him valuable on the power play, and Bodger is adept at exploiting the openings for his teammates via his passing skills. His shot is probably the weakest of his finesse skills, in that it is only average in terms of speed and power. It is not a weapon, but he is shooting more frequently and that results in more goals.

Doug uses his size effectively and efficiently, if not spectacularly. He's fairly good around the net and on the boards, but he could use his size and develop his strength so that he becomes a punishing hitter, making opponents think twice before venturing near him. He could also learn to use his reach better, but again, we're talking about improving what is already acceptable, not improving what is borderline... he is still inconsistent in the use of his skills, more through lack of confidence than lack of application... comtinues to improve in a quiet way.

Bodger has good finesse skills, and it is his skating that powers his finesse game. He is a good skater with a strong stride and good agility. He has good lateral movement and one-step quickness (surprisingly so for a man with his size and bulk) and those skills allow him to implement his other finesse skills... has the hands to make good passes to both sides... he'll lead his teammates into those openings on the PP, but Doug's hands are good enough to get a pass to a Penguin in tight quarters... must contribute more offense at even strength... basically, he is a finesse player with size... more hitting would give him some more room for his finesse plays... he's continuing to improve, and Doug works and takes coaching well.

will occasionally make the blind pass around the boards that gives the puck to the opposition... hands are good enough to get passes through traffic...

This is a big year for Doug, who can really establish himself now that Phil Housley has been traded. He has great offensive skills, and will be counted on to produce even more this season. Bodger is very effective on the power play.

skating and puck movement are the keys to Bodger's game... has very good agility and mobility for a bigger man, and his lateral movement and quickness will surprise opponents unaccustomed to such moves coming from a bulky guy. He uses his skating two ways - to start Buffalo's transition game, either by stepping up to close the gap and force the play at his blue line, or by skating loose pucks from the zone himself. He is aggressive offensively, sometimes too much so in the offensive zone, and will always join a rush up ice. Opponents must play the body on Bodger in order to slow him down. He carries the puck confidently from the defensive zone, but Bodger is better at seeing and making a strong first pass. He gets good reads at both ends of the ice, and he'll find the open man ahead of him; he passes well to both sides, has pretty good touch and his vision is good enough to recognize openings and send his teammates into them. he is consistent defensively, if not the greatest defensive zone player ever... shoots well off the pass, but there are still too many nights when his shot is absent without leave... he is a good player, not necessarily outstanding, and he certainly benefits from Phil Housley getting the lion's share of the checking attention... for now he is a hard working, coachable - and successful - NHL defenseman.

Doug combined with Phil Housley to give the Sabres two of the better puck-rushing defensemen in the NHL... his hard shot and playmaking were effective on the power play.

A good puckhandling defenseman.. with Phil Housley traded to Winnipeg, Buffalo was counting on him to provide more offense from the blueline. It was a good plan, but things just didn't work out. TO make mattes worsem Doug suffered a separated shoulder on Feb 19.

Bodger is a defenseman who doesn't do anything with brilliance, but can do anything well: he can skate, he can pass and he will use either of those skills to move the puck out of the zone. He will play the man, kill penalties, escort the rush up ice, anything... Bodger is a fluid, acceptable-to-good skater who does a nice job of carrying the puck from the zone but who just as often makes smart passes to get it out. he is more effective when his ice time is closely monitored and he is kept fresh. Bodger had been a perfect complement to Phil Housley, but struggled somewhat last season under the burden of being top gun. He is wonderfully gifted, though, at taking hard shots off the pass. Positioned at the right point, which opens his forehand for the one-timer, Bodger gets his bottom hand over quickly to keep the drive low... Bodger doesn't shy away from contact. He does what needs to be done and uses his strength in tying up opponents in front of the net. With very good one-on-one skills, Bodger rarely gets beaten in those confrontations and often will finish the play by guiding the opponents to the boards. The times he struggles, though, come when he plays the puck instead of the man and ends up tackling air... stays calm at all times, especially in the defensive zone. He keeps the bench loose. He laughs and jokes and enjoys the game without sacrificing intensity and desire to win. He is a calming influence on his teammates... it seems, though, that Bodger could make better use of his size.

Bodger is a fine two-way defenseman who performs well on special teams. He's a fine passer who handles the puck well. He's a steady player who registered a superb playoff performance

Bodger skates well enough to be an asset in a small building. He can stop and start and move the puck in a tiny space, he is mobile to either side, and he covers lots of ground laterally. He goes behind the net, collects the puck and sets the form of the breakout - both on the power play and at even strength. He is the quarterback, the steady focal point of the team's transition from defense to offense. Under those responsibilities, Bodger is smooth and steady. He has a good view of the ice and picks his best passing option most of the time, hitting the target with a sharp first pass. If there is no pass, Bodger carries well enough to beat the first man and gain the red line, or weave to the attacking blueline and make a read. He has a good shot from the point, and is especially good at one-timers, which he makes accurate and hard, but tippable. Bodger keeps the shots down, keeps them away from the goalie's gloves to possession might go up for grabs... Bodger gets involved physically but doesn't have the fight in him. He is not especially nasty to attackers in front of his net, although he will chop at ankles. He finishes checks, but is more of a pusher than hitter. There are times when he plays the puck instead of the man... Bodger is not a spotlight guy. He accepted its glare, but he never sought it, even though there were nights he clearly was the best defenseman on the team.

we must admit his performance disappointed us... after Housley's departure he was to assume a PP quarterbacking role but only managed to prove he didn't have the talent to run the operation on his own... not known for his defensive abilities, Buffalo appears to have given up on this rearguard and other teams may gamble he can excel in another location. Bodger was dumped to the 2nd PP unit at season's end...

Doug is a solid all-around defender who can adjust to any type of game. He can rush the puck out of the zone, hit the open man, or lay back while a teammate leads the charge up ice. Doug has a powerful slap shot and is skilled enough to shoot off the pass.

Bodger is a smooth skater with good quickness, and he can make tight pivots while carrying the puck. He's among the better-skating defensemen in the league, although he lacks the dynamite speed of the more charismatic defensemen. He is the major puck carrier for the sabres. It is Bodger who will collect the puck from the goalie, let his teammates wheel back and get ready to attack, then move out with the puck...Bodger is a natural on the point on the power play. He works the left point with the crafty Dale Hawerchik working the right... Bodger has great poise with the puck. He gives his team a sense of control when he is quarterbacking. Bodger takes the body when he absolutely must, but he is not by nature a hitter. He has never used his size as well as he should. Because his hand skills are so good, he prefers to position himself and try to poke or sweep check. He's a strong one-on-one defender because of his skating, but he will not clear people out from in front of his net as well as he should. He is aggressive stepping up into the neutral zone and challenges on penalty killing as well.

effortless skating and poise are the trademarks of Doug's game. Because he moves so well, Doug is a valuable puck carrier who can skate the puck out of his own and quickly begin the transition game. His assets make him a natural point man on the power play.

Clearing crease: 7.0 (out of 10)
Shot blocking: 7.0
Speed: 7.4
Shot: 7.7
Offensive ability: 8.2

a smart offensive defenseman.

the quarterback of the sabers' powerplay unit, he's a strong puckhandler whose slap shot was measured at a team-high 94.8 mph.

Bodger can play tough and he can play with the puck. He's a quiet, steady force on the Buffalo blueline, anchoring a young and growing corps of defenders. A regular point man on the power play... he's a good - if conservative - playmaking defenseman... considering his size, Bodger could play a more physical game. He opts to smother forwards against the boards, rather than put them through the boards, rarely sending the message that it could be dangerous to tread through his territory. He doesn't bring a mean streak to the rink, relying on his finesse skills to get the job done. A solid player, Bodger has lived up to the privilege of being a 1st rounder without letting it affect his performance. He works hard, both in practice and during games. As Mike Ramsey's leadership role diminished in recent years, Bodger assumed more of that function and became the team's top-rated defenseman.

WILL - finesse, not muscle
CAN'T - be underrated
EXPECT - fine leadership
DON'T EXPECT - excessive PIMs

Doug's heady defensive work was one of the big reasons why the Sabres won the NHL's Jennings trophy for fewest goals allowed... Doug helped anchor one of the league's most underrated defensive units.

very quietly, Bodger has established himself as one of the most effective and successful defensemen in the NHL, combining adequate physical play with smart puck play to achieve great results. He can lay the body when necessary but isn't primarily a hitter. his best tools are his hands - he's an accomplished passed - and his experience. He never gets flustered, never gets outmaneuvered, and doesn't take chances that result in scoring opportunities for the opposition. Because his transition game is so good, he opts to strip the puck off incoming wingers rather than pasting them to the boards and sending a directive that the Sabres defensive zone can be a dangerous place. He's not the rah-rah type who will step forward and say, "I'm in charger here", leaving that to others.

WILL - rely on finesse
CAN'T - be a banger
EXPECT - a quiet leader
DON'T EXPECT - flash

adapted well to the Sabres' change in philosophy to a more defensive-minded team. He is a good two-way defenseman who can contribute at both ends of the ice. Bodger has had some nagging injuries but he is still quietly effective and can help Buffalo's younger defensemen to learn the game.

Bodger has been a leader ever since he arrived on the Sabres' scene... has established himself as one of the most effective offensive defensemen in the NHL, combining physical play with smart puck handling. He can take the body but isn't known primarily as a hitter. his tools are his passing and his years of experience... not an obvious on-ice squad leader, he prefers to let others do the talking, saving his best for game situations. His work habits and smarts are there, but he doesn't step up and stake out ground as a leader, leaving younger players to watch and glean what they can from his actions.

WILL - play smart and calm
CAN'T - intimidate physically
EXPECT - quiet leadership
DON'T EXPECT - an all-star

Becoming more defensively oriented... adding depth to to the team's defense will allow him to play a more selective role, and actually increase his usefulness.

Doug never allows himself to get out of shape. He runs four or five miles per day in the offseason.

sharks traded away Ozolinsh and then realized they needed help on the blueline. Sacrificed Pat Falloon to get Bodger. A smooth skating puckhandler, but lacks speed needed to be impact player. Compensates by being very smart with the puck. Good defensively. Big shot will win him time on the power play. Potential is there for him to switch game to offense.

One of the most efficient defensemen in the NHL, combining clean physical play with confident puck handling. He uses his body when he has to, but he isn't a banger. An excellent passer, he has the poise to hold his position. He rarely gets flustered and almost never allows himself to get outmaneuvered by even the most skilled skaters. Bodger doesn't get much notoriety because he goes about his business in quiet fashion. He doesn't do any one thing fantastically well, but he is steady. Bodger is no sled, but he doesn't have all the quickness he had a decade ago... one of the game's most reliable players... his work habits can be an example to younger, more naturally gifted players.

WILL - rely on finesse
CAN'T - be a banger
EXPECT - a quiet leader
DON'T EXPECT - flash

will play a key role in the development of some of the Sharks' younger defensemen this season. San Jose's management rewarded him with a new three-year deal, and he can be expected to see prime ice time. A solid, two-way performer...

Once a solid, two-way blueliner, now more of a stay at home type who chips in occasionally at the other end. Intelligent with the puck. Steady. Comes to the arena to compete. Constantly asking Bodger to counter the enemy's top lines is, similar to Gill's case, asking a bit much.

adds experience and can handle the puck but has lost a step or two over the years.

 

[seventieslord]

Jason Pominville, RW

- 6'0", 185 lbs
- Best VsX scores: 75, 75, 69, 63, 60, 60, 60
- Best ES scores: 81, 76, 73, 68, 67, 65, 60
- Buffalo Sabres Captain for three seasons (2011-2013)
- Played in NHL All-star game (2012)
- Killed 26% of penalties for teams 5% better than average on the PK
- Has received scattered Selke votes in 6 seasons
- Very durable player who has missed just 16 games in the past 10 seasons

Assets: Has great on-ice vision and offensive creativity. Can beat defenders one-on-one. Is equally adept at finishing off plays or setting up linemates. Is defensively responsible and a good team leader.
Flaws: Lacks ideal NHL size and strength, which somewhat hinders his ability to perform at an even higher level. Can also wear down over the course of the season. Doesn't hit the net enough with his shots.
Career Potential: Versatile scoring winger and leader.

Pominville was recalled after lighting it up for Rochester, where he registered 19 goals in 18 games... he would score more if he could add a little more muscle to his smallish frame. Has a nose for the net.

more than doubled his point totals in a breakout sophomore campaign in which he scored 34 goals, including 30 at even strength, one short of the league lead... crafty, opportunistic winger with quick, soft hands and deceptive toughness... plays a feisty and involved game in spite of a slender build... displays a knack for finding open space and unleashing his wicked shot that features a lightning release and uncanny accuracy... not an explosive skater, but still smooth and agile with steadily improving strength on his feet... proved an ideal fit on the top line alongside the playmaking talents of Daniel Briere and Jochen Hecht, though floundered in the playoffs when Briere was moved off his line... made impressive strides defensively last season which should help guard against any major backslides.

used on all special teams, Pominville has exceptional two-way ability. He is blessed with excellent hockey sense, which allows him to always be in the right place at the right time.

Pominville wasn't a first liner when 2007-08 began, but when he begins to produce every time he steps on the ice, he gets moved up the depth chart in a hurry... also sees time on the penalty kill.

at his best when confidently controlling and making plays as he possesses soft hands and good patience... gave up possession too readily at times last season... also plagued by ineffective defensive zone play such as weak clearances and poor positioning...

continued to underachieve and fail to push his game over the top... led the club with five shootout goals... doesn't consistently make smart decisions moving the puck... his intensity routinely sags... did make a concerted effort to upgrade his intensity in the postseason, yet still came up short against the Bruins...

he is somewhat miscast on the first line and is at his best on the second line when the opposition hones in on other players. The "Mayor of Pominville" is adept at killing penalties but lacks a physical edge.

Jason Pominville should be a fixture on Buffalo's top line for several years to come... they will never be the best line in the league, but it's a line that should produce 60-80 points for each player per year.

misses a fast first step... smooth and agile, however... makes quick pivots and moves well laterally... shows better structure and defensive positioning - stays in his lanes and does a solid job of disrupting puck carriers... not as many intensity lapses last season either... rediscovered the brave, energetic style needed to rise above the ordinary... elevated his play when Derek Roy was sidelined, and was having a strong playoff until his leg was cut by a skateblade.

A durable winger capable of putting up impressive totals, Jason Pominville is actually a jekyll and hyde performer offensively. Year after year he puts up great totals at even strength, and year after year he's one of the Sabres' poorest power play performers. That said, his leadership is invaluable to the sabres.

Buffalo's lone all-star, Jason Pominville had a terrific season, playing all 82 games and leading the team with 2.24 ESP/60... he was also exceptional on the power play, netting 26 points there, and logged the most shorthanded time among the forwards... his defensive and penalty killing game is solid enough to make him a valuable top-6 forward even if he wasn't scoring at quite the same pace.

re-established himself during a strong first year as captain... helped fill in some of the blanks with a steady high level of play... stronger and fitter last season, and noticeably more visible in the neutral zone, rediscovering his short passing game and igniting the transition game.

named captain prior to the season, Pominville definitely led by example, notching a team high 73 points. For his efforts, the veteran was voted MVP by is fellow players... they'll be leaning on Pominville again for offense and leadership.

The Wild paid a hefty price for him... while he was having a solid season for the Sabres, he elevated his play in Minnesota... before a Dustin Brown elbow knocked the wind out of his season. He routinely faces the team's toughest competition, is a big contributor on special teams, and his 2.05 ESP/60 rate makes him a valuable addition to a Wild roster that struggled with its even strength production.

One of the most popular players in Buffalo the last eight years... a PP staple (and can even man the point) and is leaned on as one of the leaders on this young team.

“He can do it in so many different ways,” NBC analyst Pierre McGuire said Monday. “He’s a 5-on-5 scorer, he’s a power-play threat, both from the top of the circle and also up by the blue line because he’s a great distributor and he can also shoot the wicked one-timer.

“You put it all together, and he might be the most well-rounded player on their team in terms of being a pure scorer, a really good defensive player and a special teams specialist. There are other guys that are flashier — Koivu, Parise. But Jason Pominville just does his job all the time. He’s like a good defenseman — you don’t notice him until you see his stats at the end of the night.”
...
“It was overlooked the time when Zach and Mikko went out,” Yeo said. “There was obviously a void in the skill level and the talent level that we were putting on the ice. He stepped up big time at that time. But it was also a void in terms of our leadership at that time. I really saw him take his leadership to another level.”

Pominville said that maybe he was a little more vocal, but he did nothing different from what he normally does.

“Maybe people just took more notice of it because the big guns were out,” Pominville said in his soft-spoken manner.

As good a player as he is, he seems to be an afterthought in the hockey community when recognizing the upper crust off the sport. For instance, he was left off the US Olympic orientation camp roster as the US braintrust instead opted for LA 4th line center Trevor Lewis... led the Wild in both points and even strength points. Also put up robust possession numbers, displaying patience with the puck and soft hands when driving the net. He owns a powerful shot and can score from a distance or around the paint... he is a skilled passer and has the ability to make plays in high traffic areas.

claimed his second career team scoring crown - the first with Minnesota... played the point on the power play at times...can't be expected to carry such a load for the next season... traditionally a fast starter who tapers off, yet remains at the top of the scoring standings... solid shooter with strong work ethic.

equal parts shooter and playmaker... lack of finishers on the team makes him stand out like an ice fishing hut on a snow-covered lake. He always catches his limit.

Jason Pominville's 18 goals may seem disappointing. However, the speedy winger experienced some bad luck, shooting 7.1%, down from13.3% the previous year. "Pommer" took a scant eight penalty minutes, but that wasn't due to lack of effort: he uses quickness and strong stickwork to frustrate opponents and gain possession. While he may be on the downside of his prime, the 33-year old doesn't have a lot of hard miles on his body, which should allow him to continue being productive into his mid-30s.

the opportunities were there in 14-15, he just couldn't bury 'em.

 

[seventieslord]

Hec Kilrea, LW

- 5'8", 175 lbs
- Stanley Cup (1927, 1936, 1937)
- Stanley Cup Finalist (1935)
- Top-20 in points twice (5th, 12th)
- Best VsX scores: 94, 59, 58, 51, 50, 50, 50
- Retired 3rd in GP, 11th in playoff GP

Left-winger Hec Kilrea played 633 NHL games for three different teams. The "Hurricane" was a fast skater and a strong checker who could score when allowed to play a more offensive role. His brothers Ken and Wally also played in the NHL as did his nephew, Brian.

Born Blackburn, Ontario, Kilrea played a year with the senior Ottawa Rideaus before joining the NHL Senators in 1925-26. He played six years with Senators and was a member of the 1927 Stanley Cup champions. He exploded for 36 goals in 1929-30 and finished fifth in the NHL scoring race playing on a line with Frank Finnigan and Joe Lamb.

Kilrea dropped to 14 goals in 1930-31 and then spent a year with Detroit Falcons after being claimed from Ottawa in the Dispersal Draft. While in Motown he was teamed with Ebbie Goodfellow and Larry Aurie on an effective forward unit. The talented winger was traded to the Toronto Maple Leafs in the off-season and spent two years there before returning to Detroit in 1935. Kilrea spent nearly five years with the Red Wings where he was an effective two-way player with linemates Gord Pettinger and Syd Howe.

Kilrea was an integral part of the team when it became the first U.S. club to win consecutive Stanley Cups in 1936 and 1937. He also set up Mud Bruneteau for the goal that ended the longest game in NHL history at 116:30 of overtime versus the Montreal Maroons.

Hec was a speed-skater and even on hockey skates he could turn it on almost as well as with the "reachers". He was also a good stickhandler and was not afraid of getting his hair mussed... Jack Adams admired his former teammate of the 1927 cup winner and again signed Hec for Detroit... he was the hero of the final game in 1937 that gave Detroit the Cup, scoring the winning goal against Canadiens after almost an hour of overtime.

Fastest Skater (1930s): Hec Kilrea was a third-year winger with the Senators when he shattered the NHL speed skating record at the Montreal forum with a time of 16.4 seconds.

...that was all the scoring until 11:49 of the third overtime period, when Hec Kilrea finally blasted one past Cude.

Finally we got a break. Mud Bruneteau got hold of the puck in our zone and passed it up to Hec Kilrea who moved past center and in on the Maroons. Hec carried the puck around their defense but was checked by one of the Montreal players as he circled in the corner, yet he managed to get the puck out in front of the net - and that's just where Bruneteau was standing. He stuck it in past Chabot at 2:30 A.M., after more than nine periods of hockey.

when he skated, everyone took notice: the speed, the stride, the strength of his movement drew oohs and ahs from scouts, notably in Ottawa.

(1936) Called "General" on the original cup band, Hec Kilrea received special congrats from Jack Adams, the two having won the cup with Ottawa nine years previous as teammates.

When Hec starts, everyone else might as well be standing still.

"The thing I remember most is Hec Kilrea used to win the races. He used to race Morenz around the rink, and Morenz was touted as being the fastest skater in the business, and Hec beat him all the time."

Kilrea, a dashing, sensational player...

"I think the brightest star in the game is Hector Kilrea, the Ottawa wingman," replied Colonel Hammond. "Bill Cook of the Rangers is a grand all-around player, but Kilrea is the star of the league."

Hec Kilrea, the Ottawa bomber who has evidently reserved his scoring ability for the playoffs, has been in major league competition longer than any member of the Detroit Red Wings... playing in his ninth postseason playoff, modest Hector is the toast of Detroit today, for his "million dollar counter in the 3rd overtime period of last night's game with Canadiens gave his team the league title and a chance to repeat their stanley cup triumph of last season. But that's not all. Hec started Jolly Jack Adams; wings on their way to the series' victory by counting two goals in the first game here, won by Detroit 4-0... "let me see now," he continued. "I've been on that the team that finished first in its division six times. Twice with Ottawa, twice with Toronto and twice with Detroit.

 

[seventieslord]

Pete Stemkowski, C

- 6'1", 196 lbs
- Stanley Cup (1967)
- Stanley Cup Finalist (1972)
- Top-11 in playoff scoring 3 times (2nd, 11th, 11th)
- Best points percentages: 81, 63, 59, 58, 50, 49, 44
- Best ES points percentages: 100, 71, 68, 63, 62, 62, 59
- Post-expansion, killed 29% of penalties for teams 2% below average on the PK

Quietly Pete Stemkowski had a solid NHL career that lasted 14 years. A useful and aggressive forward, "Stemmer" always took a back seat of attention wherever he played... Pete Stemkowski played six strong seasons in New York. Despite 3 20+ goal seasons as a Ranger and some fine team play, Stemkowski never again sipped champagne from Lord Stanley's Cup. The Rangers came oh so close to the Stanley Cup three times, however it was not meant to be.

Stemkowski was also adept at verbally skewering opposing centers, a distinct advantage when he lined up for a faceoff.

"Believe me, that stuff worked," Stemkowski recalled years later. "It's not that hard to throw a guy off guard, especially on faceoffs, by getting on his nerves."

Stemkowski got the winning goal to put us up 3-2 in the 1967 finals against Montreal...

a lot of the reason we'd won the cup was Pete Stemkowski. He had been centre on our best line for the whole playoffs, with Bob Pulford and Jim Pappin. I remember Gordie Howe talking about that line the previous spring - "nearly 600 pounds of them , and they use every ounce when they're checking", he said. Anybody who saw that series in the flesh or on TV knows how good Stemkowski was. He stood there in the other guy's end with his arms and stick out and dared them to try and get by him. They stop looking at him and bash, they're down. He is six feet, 200 pounds and when he was cruising, everybody on the other team better keep his head up. He'd had a pretty good season for us, but in the playoffs he'd been even better: 5 goals, 7 assists, eating up the heavy going and the pressure as if he revelled in it.

All right. This game (the game the Leafs died) was only an exhibision game and some people have the attitude that exhibition games don't mean anything. They mean something, don't fool yourself. they can mean a hell of a lot.

Right then Stemkowski was playing the same way as he'd been playing in the Stanley Cup. He wasn't picking any soft spots. He nailed Vic Hadfield in our zone and Hadfield nailed him right back. Then down in the Ranger end Stemkowski really reefed Rod Seiling. The play came out of there fast and went down to our end but in the meantime two or three Rangers ganged up on stemkowski to retaliate for the Seiling hit. They got him on the ice. They're kicking the living so-and-so out of him. Of course, the play had gone to our end and at first our guys couldn't see what was happening. But when they did come back, Geoffrion, Hadfield, Seiling, Kurtenbach, and Brown are all taking turns whaling the hell out of Stemkowski, sometimes two or three at a time, and our guys are there as peacemakers! Not doing any damn fighting at all! Finally, Pete fell to the ice with a couple on top of him, and in the melee somebody stepped on his hand. Blood started pouring out of a cut that later needed seven stitches. And still our other boys are standing around saying "now, now, boys..." or some damn thing... anytime four guys from one team have enough free time to have a vendetta with one guy from another, that second team is in trouble, and I should have seen it. I should have known right then... what happened with that hockey club I should have seen in the Stemkowski incident in the preseason.

regarded as one of the better face-off men in the game...

Scouts like his size and his willingness to play at both ends of the rink.

Stemkowski may not pile up quite as many honors as Hicke, but veteran hockey men feel he is one of the best NHL prospects to show up in the AHL in a number of years... he does everything. He skates exceptionally well for a big man, handles the puck well, shoots with the best and passes deftly. And he uses his size to his advantage - both for spilling opponents and for camping himself in front of the enemy's net... Joe Crozier doesn't hesitate to throw him out in a penalty killing role, either.

It'll be interesting to see what happens when Bathgate, Armstrong and the others recover. Dislodging the rangy stemkowski is going to be a difficult challenge. It's noteworthy that Ellis, Stemkowski and Selby play textbook hockey, always in the right position, always flawless on defense...

ROOKIE TOO GOOD TO BE SENT BACK TO MINORS, SAYS IMLACH
STEMKOWSKI INSTANT HIT WITH MAPLE LEAFS

The Leafs promptly began a six-game unbeaten streak and Stemkowski fit in so neatly that Imlach decided to keep him... "he's just what we needed. As you know, I've always thought our strength at center ice had a great deal to do with our three straight Stanley Cup wins. We have Bob Pulford, Dave Keon and Red Kelly, with Billy Harris as the best extra center in hockey. Well then, the situation at left wing got so bad, Ihad to move Kelly there. And that left us much weaker at center. I tried Andy bathgate there for a while, then George Armstrong. But Stemkowski is the answer. He had to stay once I had a look at him."

"Stemmer has matured tremendously", Gregory adds. "Whoever worked on him in Rochester did a good job. He's a major leaguer now... Stemmer seems to be just the sort of co-worker the Big M needs - rangy and fast and an intelligent playmaker. In addition, he is so rangy that he forechecks effectively.

STEMKOWSKI MAKES FUTURE SOLID WITH AGGRESSIVE PLAY FOR LEAFS

...an industrious, aggressive centerman whose excellent work during the past month has created a glimmer of optimism with the Leafs... he was a pretty ordinary plodder until Leafs recalled another young center called Mike Walton from their AHL team in Rochester. Suddenly Stemkowski realized that his NHL job was by no means secure and he began to produce in a big way. And it is he, not Walton, who is the talented center in the Leafs' future. "During our 10-game losing streak, Stemkowski was my best forward," says Punch Imlach. "That has to be considered impressive, when he keeps fighting through a bad slump like that. You also have to like the way he dug in when he saw what Walton's arrival could mean to him. He's one of the few forwards we have who'll step into the other guys and make his presence felt."

He is plenty large enough to play the belligerent, forechecking style of hockey he practices. He hits like a young Bob Pulford... Stemkowski doesn't mind being the butt of dressing room chatter, because he's a nonstop joker himself.... one of the more aggressive forwards in the NHL today... likes to throw his weight around on the ice. His inspired play in recent weeks has been one of the big factors the Leafs are moving again in the league race.

..."I have this memory of Stemmer hammering Pilote into the boards this one time," Conacher remembers. "Pilote just fell onto the ice and you could see in his eyes he had nothing left. Next shift out the puck goes into the corner and you can see Pilote holding up to see if he was going to get hit. He just didn't want the puck anymore...

... The fourth pivot was Pete Stemkowski, a big kid who wasn't fancy, but could hit and check...

...the big news this weekend was the play of what was now the team's best line: Pulford, Stemkowski and Pappin. Pulford collected three goals. Pappin scored the winner on Sunday. And Stemkowski left Red Wing and Ranger tattoos all over the boards...

...up one, the Leafs resumed hitting. Stemkowski walloped Van Impe, combing the defenseman's noggin with his stick...

"Stemkowski was stealing the puck from Canadiens' centremen all through game three," according to Red Fisher...

...with 45 seconds left, Stemkowski and Pappin ragged the puck up ice... the leaf forwards slowed, then cris-crossed at the Hab line... Laperriere chased Pappin into the boards. Harper had a hold of Stemkowski's arm in front of thenet. Pappin fired a 40-foot pass in the direction of the crease. It ricocheted from Stemkowski's skate off the left goalpost, curling into the back of the Montreal net. After joining his teammates in a modest celebration, Stemkowski skated to Ashley. Hollering to be heard over the cacophonous din that was Maple Leaf Gardens, he told the referee, "Puck hit off Harper." It hadn't, but Stemkowski figured another goal might give Jim the zippy convertible Sport Magazine was handing out for series MVP.

The playoffs of 1967 are liable to haunt Pete Stemkowski all his life. His muscular play at center ice and his 12 points were prime factors in Toronto's Stanley Cup victory, and his failure to continue that output last season was a grave disappointment to his Toronto bosses. "He can be the best center in the league," says Punch Imlach, "because no defenseman can hold his ground when Stemmer throws those 200 pounds of his around. But we can't wait."

"The magnetic Pole" is a husky forward... a good hard hitter.

Stemmer has a fine mobility for his size, and he has fit in quite well with the wings.

everything you look for in a big league center is to be found in Pete Stemkowski - size, strength, speed, a good shot and a trace of truculence... last season's results indicate the Leafs may have made a mistake trading him.

Spurred by Stemkowski's hard hitting, the line became Detroit's best...more important than his scoring was his body work... when he was wearing a helmet it seemed he wasn't as aggressive.

STEMMER PUTS NEW LIFE IN WINGS

there was a time earlier in the season when the Wing management was unhappy with Pete Stemkowski... it wasn't the first time that happened to him. He has his ups and downs when he worked for Punch Imlach... Stemkowski's Toronto reputation was that of a defensive player that that was primarily what Detroit had in mind when he was included in the huge deal with the Leafs... the Wings needed a husky center who could do some muscling. Stemkowski has done that, although not as much perhaps as the Wings would like, but he's also shown a scoring touch that broke through only in the 1967 playoffs... despite his recent scoring burst, Stemkowski is probably the most underrated of Red Wing forwards. If he keeps this up, that won't last much longer.

Aggressiveness is Pete Stemkowski's main asset as a hockey player... he is convinced of that after what happened last season. When a few raps on the skull produced persistent headaches, he was advised to begin wearing a helmet. Result: he slumped, because, as he now puts it, "I'd stopped going after people.".. he quickly regained the old touch - just about the time he discarded the helmet and resumed the belligerent brand of hockey his 6'1", 205-pound physique fits him for.

Stemkowski is a robust individual who should put muscle into the Rangers offense.

Proved big man for the Rangers in the playoffs last season.

"well," said coach Emile Francis, "we're lucky we found out so early. We've got to be stronger and tougher." Accordingly, Francis went out and got the strongest, toughest center he could find, Detroit's Pete Stemkowski. Normally, a player such as he would never be available. He was only 25, large and rugged, and had just contributed 46 goals to the Detroit cause in two seasons. But he did not get along with the new Detroit coach Ned Harkness, at all. That gave Francis his opportunity. "You don't have a chance in this league without muscle at center, especially against Boston, and we're well off now..."

big and strong... proved a valuable pickup, finishing with 18 goals while playing on the checking line... scored two playoff goals, both OT winners...

The most popular hockey player in MSG is Pete Stemkowski, the Polish Prince, and he repaid the fans' affection with the greatest output of his career, plus the Rangers' best playoff production. "I'm not really a scorer, though. Some years you get a lot of points because things break for you. But I see myself mainly as an up-and-down guy, doing a good defensive job and creating opportunities for myself and other players... Wings dealt him following a famous practice incident in which coach Ned Harkness caught him imitating a college cheer (gimme a C, gimme an O, gimme an R). Harkness had just come from Cornell and he reacted to Stemkowski's burlesque by trading him...

Pete is one of those players who could produce to the limit in crucial situations such as the playoffs. His defensive ability is considered his strongest area and he often has the task of facing the top guns on the other team.

STEMMER PICKS RANGERS UP WHEN INJURIES GET THEM DOWN

Pete Stemkowski couldn't have found a better time to get hot...

Stemkowski, a burly center…

Stemmer lights spark in Ranger turnaround

The Polish Prince played with Ron Stewart, Rangers' new coach, at Toronto and they share the same outlook concerning hockey. They see it as a defensive game in which everything good springs from checking.

Pete has acquired a well-deserved reputation for scoring big goals during his career that has covered stints with Toronto, Detroit and the Rangers. Good faceoff man and an outstanding penalty killer. Stemmer can play LW as well as center.

while some of his teammates and opponents have been catching most of the headlines with spectacular goals, Pete Stemkowski has been busy in his own way by being consistent… Long rated as one of the NHL's top man in the face-off circle, Stankowski's consistency has paid off for New York Rangers. So much so that coach Emile Francis has described him as one of the best clutch players in the NHL today. "Stemkowski is not the flashiest skater in the league," Francis conceded, still marveling at the centers Tuesday night performance in Montréal. "But he's been our top face-off man." The 6 foot one Winnipeg native was instrumental in New York's 3 to 2 overtime victory in Montréal Tuesday night, a victory that earned the Rangers a 3 to 2 lead in their best-of-seven Stanley Cup quarterfinal against the Canadiens. Stemkowski, who played the fifth game despite a severe throat infection, won a key face-off from Henri Richard in the final minute of regulation play, a decision that led indirectly to Bruce McGregor's tying goal. He also won the draw from Montréal's Pete Mahovlich to set up *** ******'s winning goal at 4:07 of the sudden-death overtime. Since the Rangers acquired him from Detroit Red Wings in 1970, has figured in three straight overtime victories by the Rangers.

Known as one of the best clutch players in the game, Peter excelled in last year's playoff games against Montral and Philadelphia. He can play LW as well as center, and he's a most reliable man on faceoffs. Smart with the puck, Pete is also a good playmaker and can be used to kill penalties as well. He has a smooth, steady style.

Dependability, sense of humor are two of his biggest assets...At his best during playoffs...Scored goal in triple overtime that lifted Rangers past Chicago in 1971 Cup semi-finals...With Detroit, he once led a "Cornell" cheer for former GM Ned Harkness, who showed up during the chant...Not long after, "Stemmer" was traded to New York...Says teammate Brad Park, "His sense of humor keeps us loose, but on the ice he's a money player."...Plays center or left wing.

Players Poll

Most Underrated Player:
Pete Stemkowski, 6th

Best on Faceoffs:
Pete Stemkowski, 4th

valuable man to have around...

excels as playmaker and on faceoffs... ranks #3 all-time among Rangers' playoff goalscorers (editor's note, he had been with the team for just 6 of its 47 years)

known for his ability to score important goals, Pete is a reliable type of center who can also play left wing when needed.

He never could skate. He's not great with the stick. But he's good at faceoffs, digs in the corners, gets the puck and isn't too proud to pass it on. Primarily a defensive center and left winger, the 6'1" 215 pounder says, "I use my body. That's my game. I'm a checker and digger. I'm not fancy. I guess they wanted a big forward." playing behind three small centers, he has been working well the odd shift with the fourth line and killing penalties effectively.

...he became known as an opportunistic scorer... "I hope to have more chance here. I'm a big guy and I get soft sitting around. I have to play regularly to play well. My lefts still feel good and I think I can play regularly.:

It was 19 years ago that Toronto Maple Leafs and Chicago Black Hawks met in the Stanley Cup playoffs. The Leafs, with Bob Pulford and Jim Pappin playing prominent roles, bounced the Hawks in six games, enroute to their most recent Cup triumph.

"I remember our line getting all the goals in that series," said Pulford as he reminisced about that series. "Well, Jim and Pete (Stemkowski) did the scoring not me-I didn't get any. We were put together to check Stan's (Mikita) line and ended up doing most of the scoring," added Pulford. Pappin led the playoffs in scoring that year with seven goals and eight assists with Stemkowski right behind him.

How Would You Like To Be Remembered: "I really did give it everything. My reputation may have been like a happy-go-lucky, prankster type of guy. But believe me, when it came to playing I was all business. Never gave me greater satisfaction than to win. Always tried to excel in the playoffs. I feel that's what people remembered about you. Be remembered as someone who scored in the clutch, when it was important. Was a team player that contributed to any success that we had. Loose, dropped the jokes. But as soon as they dropped the puck, I was a pretty serious player."

 

[seventieslord]

Nick Mickoski, LW

- 6'1", 193 lbs
- Stanley Cup Finalist (1950)
- Played in 1956 All-Star Game
- 9th in Assists (1955)
- Top-15 in goals 4 times (11th, 13th, 13th, 13th)
- Top-20 in ESP 4 times from 1953-onwards (12th, 16th, 17th, 18th)
- Best VsX scores: 58, 53, 52, 49, 49, 42, 39
- Runner up for best defensive forward in the 1958 Coaches' Poll
- 3rd, 10th in SHP (1953, 1959)
- also had SHP in 1956, 1957
- 2nd in WHL scoring (1963)

Left-winger Nick Mickoski played over 700 NHL games for four different clubs during the Original Six era. He was a fine goal scorer and playmaker whose 6'1" frame was difficult to bump off the puck.

Mickoski joined the Chicago Black Hawks in 1954-55 and was a fine two- way worker

"Broadway Nick" Mickoski was a popular figure on the Rangers during his seven years with the team — the highlights of which were a big role in the 1950 Stanley Cup Finals run and a 20-goal season in 1950-51.

Mickoski, 6' 1" and 183 lbs. had size and also speed. Between 1947 and 1960, the man they called "Broadway Nick," and "Galloping Nick," appeared in 703 NHL games with New York Rangers, Chicago, Detroit and Boston. He recorded 158 goals and 185 assists for 343 points. That would have been a fine career but Mickoski was not ready to call it a day. He played six more seasons in the minors with Providence Reds, Winnipeg Warriors and San Francisco Seals. The Seals won the WHL championship in 1962-63 with Mickoski finishing second in league scoring with 95 points. After a year coaching the Seals, Mickoski played three seasons of senior hockey with Grand Falls, Newfoundland, chalking up a healthy 218 points. He went on to be the last coach of the Winnipeg Junior Jets and the first coach of the WHA Jets.

Skated like the wind

a rangy left wing... in 1947-48, after two seasons with the semipro New York Rovers and one in New Haven, Mickoski got the call to New York for a pair of playoff games... he was only 20 but played like a veteran and firmly established himself in the eyes of GM Frank Boucher and coach Lynn Patrick... at 6'1", Mickoski was the tallest player on the Rangers at the time. They called him "Broadway Nick"... Mickoski also became quite a favorite with the Rangers' faithful. As was the custom at the time, his last name was prominently plastered on a banner - more like a bedsheet, really - that hung along with several others from the end and side promenades at the Garden...

...Cook wanted it understood that Mickoski's demotion is strictly temorary. "Nick's record proves he's a much better forward than he's showed me in the last month or so. This slump was getting him down. He tried too hard and was getting worse. A little rest, and he should come back."

Self-imposed psychology, taken in small doses over a long period of time, has finally made a man of a boy. At 25, Nick Mickoski has come of hockey age and it is now to his credit that the Rangers still have a chance to climb into the playoffs. As of this writing, exactly halfway through the season, Mickoski has 12 goals, second on the team. Only seven forwards in the league have more. Yet only a few weeks ago, Mickoski was as hopeless as most of the Rangers. What happened to the blond center/left wing? Why isn't he spending most of his time on the ice ON THE ICE, as he once did?... Nick has won a fight with himself. naturally shy and easily embarrassed, he tightened up with the first mistake or missed shot and was no good to himself or the team for the rest of the game. But, a few weeks ago he finally talked himself into becoming a hockey player... "I just decided to put the puck in the corner," he says now... Where he'd been firing directly into goalkeepers, he found it was almost as easy to hit the corners... when he began scoring, his whole personality took on a change. He became aggressive, With interesting coincidence, he became the strong two-way player his potential called for. Few Rangers can skate as fast as he and none can skate as strongly. To the home fans, Mickoski's new lease on life was eye-catching, for they had always seen him at his worst... even Nick's off-ice personality has undergone a radical change. No longer quiet and shy, he is now one of the leaders in dressing room horseplay... this season's biggest personality change in New York has been attributed to Mickoski's own will to win, confidence and trying to put the puck in the corners. Coach Bill Cook has one answer: "We've got many kids on the Rangers this year, and nick finally feels he is a veteran. And he has come to act like one."

a good, steady puckster putting in his 4th season.

one of the few bright spots on the Rangers has been the resurgence of Nick Mickoski as a scorer..

Big, strong and fast, Nick is known for his wicked backhand slap shot.

always skating both ways, Mickoski plays as well defensively as offensively. Known for his backhand slap shot, Nick is a good clutch player and an inspiration to his teammates.

Chicago had been looking for help on the left side and big Nick should fit the bill at least most of the way. Strong and eager, he has clicked for 19 goals in each of the past two seasons...

Although his goal output is comparitively low, Nick scores when needed, notching the "big ones".

In each of the last two years "Tricky Nick" finished up with 19 goals, good for most forwards but a disappointment to one with his size, speed and shot-making ability. He has played the better part of 6 seasons with New York, at center or either wing.

Nick Mickoski, who has blossomed as a star with the Blackhawks... Mickoski is one of the unsung heroes with the Hawks this year. He goes about his business of playing heads up hockey with the true mark of a professional craftsman and while he rarely gets the accolades accorded some of the greater stars, he is, nevertheless a big cog in Chicago's wheel.

Mickoski, the type of fellow who works hard enough to score 20 or more goals every season...

A splendid skater with unlimited energy, Mickoski has proven a capable offensive force... He usually maintains a balance between goals and assists. Nick doesn't mind mixing it up if necessary but he uses his speed as a prime asset. A cerebral type, he is one of the best-balanced skaters in the league...

flashy skater and good shot

Nick Mikoski drew cheers at the Chicago stadium when he returned as a member of the Detroit Red Wings. It was obvious that quite a few people wanted to let the wingman know just how they feel about him. And to coin an often abused phrase, it couldn't happen to a nicer guy. In addition to being highly likeable and amusing in his own particular way off the ice, Nick has always been a hard and honest player who has seldom strayed from the gentlemanly ranks... Tommy Ivan didn't hesitate in admitting that he was sorry to depart with Nick to get Dutch Reibel... at 30, Nick is still a fast moving skater who's forever busy breaking up opposing attacks with his talented reaching stick. And for the record, his scoring has always been on the admirable side... also enjoys other sports when he's not pestering opponents with his uncanny ability to do more than his galloping antics would indicate possible.

Adams grabbed Mickoski in order to tighten defensive play. Nick, whose checking has certain adhesive qualities, responded so well with two way hockey that he came the key man on one of the lines.

"crazy legs Nick" hard to stop once he gets up full head of steam.

...then, there was a scoring famine. No Detroiter hustled more... but, Nick could not find the goal combinations. He was the pet victim of the NHL goalies, who all looked like all-stars when he was firing at them...

Jack Crawford, Providence Reds' coach, put Mickoski's value this way: "Nick has been a steadying factor on our club since he arrived. What we have is a young squad, and we need a guy like Nick to show the way. He certainly has given us an added lift, especially on the road where it's needed most." Besides the scoring punch, the powerful skater has proven his worth defensively. He's one of the best backcheckers on the club, and he's done a terrific job of killing penalties from time to time... Mickoski seems to have made a perfect adjustment to his shift, and is playing hockey in full gear.

SHP leaders, 1953-1959 (first seven seasons situational points were tracked):

Ron Stewart 14
Jerry Toppazzini 11
Red Kelly 10
Floyd Curry 9
Fleming Mackell 9
Rudy Migay 9
Bill Gadsby 8
Eric Nesterenko 8
Marcel Pronovost 8
Marty Pavelich 7
Gordie Howe 7
Murray Balfour 6
Don Marshall 6
Nick Mickoski 6

 

[seventieslord]

Scott Mellanby, RW

- 6'1", 201 lbs
- Stanley Cup Finalist (1987, 1996)
- 8th in playoff goals (2002)
- 22nd All-time in games played with 1431
- 23rd All-time in PIM with 2479
- Captain of two NHL franchises for a total of 6 seasons
- 8 20-goal seasons
- 7 50-point seasons
- 152 NHL Fights (41-37-29 in recorded decisions, www.dropyourgloves.com)
- Played in NHL All-Star Game (1996)
- Career Adjusted +22
- Best points percentages: 61, 57, 55, 54, 49, 47, 46
- Best ES points percentages: 61, 54, 53, 51, 51, 49, 48
- Led Florida Panthers in scoring by 9 and 10-point margins (1994, 1996)

A combative right-winger with an above average scoring touch... Over the years, he reached the 20-goal mark eight times and was valuable team leader who often played his best hockey in the post-season... The hard-working youngster scored eleven goals and played solid defensive hockey under Mike Keenan in 1986-87. He also contributed ten points when the club reached the Stanley Cup finals that spring. Mellanby's scoring touch and diligent effort all over the ice made him one of the Philly's top players... The robust forward scored 82 points over two years with the Oilers and helped Edmonton reach the semi-finals in 1992. After the Florida Panthers claimed him at the 1993 Expansion Draft, Mellanby became a regular with the club for seven and a half years... he was an offensive and emotional leader on the young club when it marched all the way to the Stanley Cup final... As the team struggled in the late 1990s, the classy veteran continued to battle. In February 2001, the powerful St. Louis Blues acquired him as they readied themselves for the playoffs. Mellanby scored three goals while helping the club reach the Western Conference championship... As a member of the Thrashers, Mellanby would be named Captain in only his second season with the club. That season he would help the Thrashers reach the playoffs for the (only) time in franchise history...

added to the depth of the flyers offense a time it was seriously needed… Mellanby continued to be a force behind team success… He could score and fight… Mellanby took leadership qualities to other teams… The work ethic and competitiveness established in Philadelphia remained very much alive in Florida.

Scott Mellanby seemed too young for the NHL and certainly not ready to be an impact player. But the man who brought him into the fold – GM Bobby Clarke – had no doubts about the young man's future. "If he wasn't ready for the NHL, we wouldn't have signed him. We've been watching him for a long time and we like what we see."… "My game then was getting into the corners, working the puck out".… In the 1987 playoffs he looked every bit the well-rounded player Clark thought he would be. "Scott fit in well," recalled former teammate Ron Sutter. "He was good along the boards, rarely made a mistake and played an all-around game."… At this point Mellanby's career appeared ready for an orbit to significantly higher level. He was playing all ends of the ice, doing the intangibles that appeal more to management and stats loving fans and gaining NHL maturity…

Mellanby is a good, hard skater with a lot of drive and the ability to back up a defenseman at the blue line. Right now, he goes right to the defenders and does so at one speed, so he'll have to moderate that to be successful. He checked fairly well in his first year in the league, and his skating and hockey sense helped him there. Mellanby has the ability to read the play – both offensively and defensively – and that ability should improve as his experience increases. He has a hard shot which should be released quicker, and Scott likes to draft cross ice to the left face-off circle before delivering it.… Mellanby is a physical winger and he uses his size to advantage offensively and defensively. He'll use his body to check and – like most flyers – enjoys the hitting part of the game. But he'll also drive to the net with his strength by staying with the puck even when he is checked. He strong enough to not only get his arms and hands free, but also to get off a quality shot. Just as he has the determination to drive to the net despite the opposition, Mellanby has the determination to make it in the NHL. He works hard at improving his game and showed that he has the character to rebound from setbacks.

though the strength of Mellanby's game found in the physical aspects of hockey, he is still a good – and improving – finesse player. He's a strong and powerful skater, but he's a little stiff. That means he's not very agile or fluid, and straightahead style is to his benefit. He uses his teammates fairly well, and can make plays coming out of the corner with the puck… Has a good shot, quick and strong… Gets planted in front of the net on the flyers PowerPlay… Has outstanding size and strength… Puts those assets to work in a strong boards and corners game, and he's a good bet to outmuscle the opposition for the puck… He willingly uses his body to check and enjoys the hitting part of the game…

has yet to fully acclimate to the speed of the NHL game in terms of play reading and puck movement, but he continues to show the understanding of the play's implications and he does get into scoring position eventually… Plays the physical game with gusto… Has a tendency to go one step too far…

Mellanby brings a number of weapons to bear in his finesse game… Read the ice well and get into position to score… Has the hand skills to score from in tight as well… Not a graceful skater by NHL standards, but a driving skater, and that power generates speed for him down the way… Can be defensively reliable, but can also make mistakes in his positional play.

Scott is a throwback to the old-time Flyers, who were known as the Broad Street Bullies. A big, rugged right wing, he can take a hit without flinching and dish it out too.

Mellanby is a grinder with a fine scoring touch the potential to produce 30 to 35 goals… Hands are the least of Mellanby's worries… As a skater, he is something of a workman… Falls somewhat short in imagination away from the puck… Mellanby does some of his best work in confined areas along the boards of the corners. There, the game slows to a crawl more suited to his speed, Mayor he can scrum for the puck – using the strength his upper and lower body to significant advantage. Mellanby will throw his shoulder into people, will reveal a mean streak and will fight if things sink to that.

Scott is a bruising winger with very good hands around the net... he'll use his great strength to score the bulk of his goals from in close.

"I like Scott's attitude", says Glen Sather. "He's a hard nosed, tough guy who goes to the net. In this division, you need that."

a tough, physical winger, Scott gave the Oilers what they expected in 91-92... very aggressive along the boards.

has a decent burst of straightahead speed, which helps him drive to the attacking zone the dump and chase game. Has a finesse move or two, plus a decent scoring touch. He is alert and responsible away from the puck, more from the defensive sense of the offensive sense. He would have more goals if he spotted the holes and jumped into them in the attacking zone… Mellanby hits eagerly. He is especially active in the attacking zone of course, forechecking aggressively. He is better, though, in confined areas where it is just Mellanby, a defenseman and a tango for the puck in the corner.… He's not going to make it on his hockey gifts alone; Mellanby needs to flesh out the bones of his game with hard work. He knows that, accepted, and plays as though honored by the privilege of wearing and NHL sweater. Desire is the turbo drive of his game.

in the mold of a power forward, Mellanby isn't blessed with great agility or moves, but he skates with speed and force. He isn't shy about banging bodies or battling along the boards for a loose puck. He throws his share of body checks and will shed his gloves for occasional bout, but he's no goon... Mellanby isn't much of a playmaker. He gets his share of assists, but is more useful as a finisher.

WILL - play it tough

Mellanby has proven to be a good addition to the right side. A competent power forward, Mellanby enjoyed his best ever offensive performance. Mellanby seems secure on the 2nd line and his willingness to work hard in the corners and along the boards should guarantee him plenty of ice time.

He is a big forward who does his best work in front of the net, screening goaltenders and tipping in shots.

NHL Scouts search far and wide for physical wingers who can score on a consistent basis. That's why Scott is so valuable to the Oilers... the rugged forward continues to chip in with the big goal - or big hit - when needed. Scott's strength and balance have helped him become an excellent cornerman.

his effectiveness comes in tight spaces where he can use his size. He is good on the power play, working down low for screens to tip. He doesn't have many moves, but he can capitalize on loose pucks… Mellanby seems to score goals that count. 24% of his goals over the past three seasons were game winners… Mellanby has become very responsible defensively… Mellanby forechecks aggressively, using his body well to hit and force mistakes in the attacking zone. He participates in one-on-one battles in tight areas and tries to win his share. He is also willing to mix it up and take penalties of aggression.

strong skater and a willing banger... His leadership helped the younger players on the team… One of the reasons the Panthers were so competitive in their first year in the NHL was the presence of players like Mellanby…

WILL - score and play tough
CAN'T - be a fancy Dan
EXPECT - excellent leadership
DON'T EXPECT - good manners

the goals don't come naturally to him, but he is determined and pays the price in front of the net.

Tough, physical... crashed his way to career best totals in goals and assists. Intimidating corner man and unselfish worker with good hands. has become a valuable cog with man advantage.

He'll camp in front of the net and scrounge for rebounds and deflections.

WILL – bump and grind
EXPECT – a leader

Scott has a knack for scoring big goals... his energy and hard work around the net have paid off with increased ice time.

Big, physical, excellent cornerman with good finishing skills.

Mellanby is a powerful skater who crashes the zone and camps in the high slot, creating havoc with his size and strength. A willing banger, Mellanby has experienced a tremendous revitalization in his career since becoming a cornerstone veteran on a talented, hard-working team. He has been a pillar of strength… You have to look hard to find something wrong with Mellanby's game. Criticizing him for his lack of foot speed for example, is like putting down a piece of chocolate because it doesn't taste enough like sirloin steak… He has worked hard and become one of the NHL's most respected leaders.

WILL – win respect
CAN'T – be underestimated
EXPECT – great team guy
DON'T EXPECT – to push him

his success is based on his work ethic. Any letup and the letdown will come in the scoring department.

A power forward with average talent who constantly rushes the net. A strong skater with a quick release and a flair for deflecting the puck in the crease. He's a poor man's version of Tim Kerr... a big favourite with local fans.

Big, physical winger with a knack for finding the puck, he is a fierce competitor who has battled back from a career-threatening arm injury suffered in 1989... now that he has arrived, he will work even harder to stay.

The rule is unclear, but the Panthers are certain Scott Mellanby was not to blame for plowing into goaltender Mike Richter on a controversial play ...

he was the Panthers main target on the first power-play unit… He works for screens and tips… Has developed a quicker release and more confidence in his shot… Seldom misses an opportunity to rub his glove in an opponents face… He's very strong along the boards and uses his feet when battling for the puck.

He's a tough forward who's twice hit the 30-goal mark. Not very fast or agile.

reliable two-way winger... physical and hard working with a nice touch around goal.

It was a humbling year for the gritty captain who started on the top line and ended the year on a checking unit... a tireless worker who plays a strong physical game.. solid defensively, so his transition to a checking role was a smooth one.

has become more of a defensive player in recent seasons

One of the most respected players in the league because of his desire to win... a responsible defensive player... their captain, leader and still one of their best players.

physical, hard working winger has a decent touch around goal but faces a checking role here with the arrival of young wingers Bure and Parrish...

Panthers coach Terry Murray, feeling Florida needed to be reenergized, recently placed grinding forward Scott Mellanby on a line with star wing Pavel Bure and center Viktor Kozlov. Mellanby's physical presence should give his highly skilled linemates more room to work.

he could be a rental player down the stretch for playoff team with the more traditional style that Florida's.

The captain's desire to win and strong leadership qualities make him a fan favourite... continues to contribute offensively by hovering around the 45-point mark. Rugged, he leads by example. Often overshadowed, he is a self-made hockey player.

veteran captain delivered another strong performance last season and was instrumental in kick starting the russian duo into gear after being moved to the top line in December... competitive, physical winger has good skills and can play on any line because of his tremendous work habits and forechecking abilities... resilient leader has shown remarkable durability and consistency throughout a solid NHL career.

added leadership to the blues, and management like him enough to give him a new two-year deal… Will still give his best effort on a nightly basis.

The physical veteran is slowing down. Mellanby has been a productive, rugged forward for years, which has taken a toll on his body... now, he provides occasional goals, and some physical play, but can't bring it every night the way he once did. The Blues hope he can continue to provide invaluable leadership and mentor several young forwards.

The best of St. Louis' three deadline acquisitions, flourished in his new surroundings and was the club's inspirational leader during the playoffs... tough, relaible winger has lost some speed but remains a relentless and ferocious checker capable of playing anywhere in the lineup... adds tons of heart and leadership.

The Blues' coaching staff is raving about 35-year-old forward Scott Mellanby, who plays on the top line with Pavol Demitra and Keith Tkachuk. Mellanby seems to always end up with loose pucks along the boards, and it's difficult for defensemen to move him out of the slot. In St. Louis's first-round victory over the Black-hawks, his presence kept checkers from shadowing Demitra, who had three goals

known for playing best when he plays prickly...

he has played through pain, both physical and personal… He is a gamer… He had an outstanding playoffs.

Just when Mellanby was written off as a winger on the decline, he emerged in the playoffs as a major offensive weapon last season. In fact, the rugged right winger had a productive regular season as well, with his best PPG average in five seasons. Mellanby provides grit, leadership, size and timely scoring. The former captain knows what it takes to win.

Wily veteran was on a mission upon returning to the lineup following his mother's death... a ferociously competitive warrior with good skills, Mellanby constantly ignited his teammates with his spirited hustle, fearlessly driving to the net and battling for every puck along the walls... club's true leader always pays a price.

every successful team needs a heart and soul guy just like him… He kept the blues from feeling sorry for themselves for being without Chris Pronger most of the season.

Mellanby refuses to slip quietly into the sunset. He finished 5th on the Blues with 57 points while ranking 8th with 176 PIM... Never the quickest or slickest, Mellanby scores most of his goals on rebounds, deflections and one-timers. He pays the price to gain position in front of the net and is a good power play finisher.

a ferocious warrior with good all-around skills, Mellanby has always been an inspirational leader due to his spirited and fearless style...

should provide experience and a strong role model for the younger Thrashers, however can't be expected to carry a big offensive load given his age and heavy mileage.

Mellanby picked up 8 points in the last 9 games to brush aside thoughts of him not having any gas left in the tank.

one of the NHL's most respected leaders

 

[seventieslord]

Bob Murray, D

- 5'10", 183 lbs
- Received a few scattered all-star votes (1980, 1981, 1983)
- Top-15 in Defense scoring three times (11th, 12th, 13th)
- Best defense VsX scores: 79, 70, 70, 62, 59, 58, 53
- Played in NHL All-star game (1981, 1983)
- Averaged 22.41 minutes per game (17.1 at ES) for 1008 games, for teams 2% below average
- Averaged 17.1 ES minutes per game in career
- Averaged 24.6 minutes per game (18.75 at ES) in 8-year prime, for teams 2% better than average
- Top-4 in TOI on team 12 times (1, 1, 2, 2, 2, 2, 2, 3, 3, 3, 4, 4)
- Top-4 in ES TOI on team 11 times (1, 1, 2, 2, 2, 4, 4, 4, 4, 4, 4)
- Killed 52% of penalties for teams exactly average on the PK
- 56 Points in 112 playoff games
- Chicago Blackhawks Captain (1986)

A skilled athlete, Bob Murray was known for his determination and skill as a player. In an article from March 3, 1993 in Hockey Digest, Murray expressed his feelings on his playing days. "I was a steady player. I could skate and move the puck. I read the play very well. My only problem was my size. I had trouble with certain teams that were bigger. I had trouble with the bigger guys, and that's how it's always going to be with the smaller defensemen." In the article, Murray also described the one thing about his career that bothers him to this day. "The nagging thing from my career is that I got to the semifinals several times, but never got to the finals. It bothers me that the group of guys I was with didn't take that step. We can make excuses. We hit Edmonton during their dynasty, and they were the best teams, no doubt about it. The fact of the matter is that we didn't do it. I'd call us underachievers. I have some close friends from that group, and it really bothers me that we didn't win the cup."

Billy Gardner, a former teammate, gave the following description: "Murph was a really difficult guy to get to know unless you were able to really get to know him, and I was one of the few who was able to. I got along with Bob and I think he was sort of like the father figure in my time. I think he appreciated people that could understand the game, which I thought I could, and had extensive talks about what was going on in situations... As a player, he was always there, played the same way every game, was very good, very steady. He was another guy who probably wasn't appreciated enough by his teammates, but game in, game out he was always there and look where he is now, his knowledge of the game is obviously very good."

If yu are surpsised that Bob Murray has cracked the vaunted Chicago defense, then you are not alone. "I, too, am surprised. I knew this club had a lot of defensemen plus I saw that they didn't make that many changes in the offseason... I was really figuring on returning to Dallas... I saw in the paper where Billy Reay said that I was going to get a good look... I thought maybe he was just saying that and was trying to push the other defensemen a little harder..."

Good enough to join the ranks of Bill White, Phil Russell, Dick Redmond, Dale Tallon and Doug Jarrett as one of the more highly-regarded rearguards in the NHL... "I kind of thought that when I survived the final cut, that I'd be doing a lot of sitting while the most experienced players played. But I've been getting a lot of shifts in."

"But I still find myself making a lot of defensive mistakes in my own end. I like to carry the puck a lot like Dick Redmond, so I have to be extra careful that I don't get caught. I don't consider myself a hitting type of defenseman but I think that in time I'll be doing more of it."... Murray exhibited some vigor in mid-october when he delivered an authoritive jolt to Detroit's Bill Hogoboam... he had scored two goals before Murray's message late in the second period, but skated somewhat more softly thereafter. It was somewhat akin to the way Chicago's smaller forwards are treated by ogres around the league.

He's a fundamental and steady type of player.

Bob is known for his all-out honest type of play.

Credit Bob Murray with high marks for candor when he tells you that last year selfishness was his most important product and that Blackhawk victories, rare as they were, didn't always wipe that scowl off his face. "In fact, it was so bad that there were times I would almost hope the team didn't do well. I wasn't playing and I had a terrible attitude, and I figured that maybe if the team would lose, I would get a chance to play. It was a completely wrong way to think. I was a little kid and I'm sure some of the other guys were unhappy about it and had to wonder about me. But that's the way I was. I was a loser, I was pouting all the time... I would come to the rink 20 minutes before practice, coast through it for an hour - and then get dressed and leave. Didn't really care about anything, and there were times when I wasn't even sure whether I wanted to play hockey for a living anymore. I was very frustrated and depressed."

But at this point in time, with the Blackhawks a respectable team again, the only thing down about Murray is his weight, which is 178. Otherwise, the latent talent which always seemed to be there somewhere at last has been tapped, and he has burgeoned into one of the club's most important players, especially with the puck in tow. "My game in the minors always was carrying the puck. But since I came here, I never really had the confidence to do it, and I never really had that much ice to develop my confidence... Billy Reay gave me my first break by bringing me up from Dallas three years ago. But there were times when I would only play a shift a game, or a little at right, or not at all. I think he believed that was the way to bring along young players, and maybe it was the best thing for me. This year, ever since I've been playing a lot, Bob Pulford hasn't once told me not to carry the puck. It's like the runner on first base who always has the green light to steal second on his own if he thinks he can. I mean, if Pully thinks we should be dumping the puck in more, he'll tell you. But he hasn't discouraged me from carrying it, and that's my game. I'm not big, and I don't play as physical as some other defensemen. Moving the puck is my strength."

The biggest noise Murray made last season was during the playoffs when he openly complained about how the Hawks were locked out of the stadium because of a concert. As a result, they had to play their entire opening round series against the Islanders in new york. "I felt we got shoved in the background a little by management, but some of the guys didn't seem to care either way. They just wanted to get the thing over with and head to the gold courses or their summer cottages. This year, I don't think you'll see that kind of attitude here."

Has shown outstanding ability with the Hawks... possessor of a right handed shot, he's an extremely hard worker and has good shot from the point... with additional experience he's sure to become a top-notch player for years.

a hard-hitting checker and a good skating playmaker, Bob is always around the puck. An extremely hard worker, he has an outstanding shot from the point. Bob can fill in at wing.

Possessed with the ability to play wing as well as defense, Bob steadily improves... has an excellent shot from the point.

Growing into fine all-around player... has made his mark in only three full seasons... used extensively on the PP... has also been used at wing... a hard worker who earned his chance... not afraid to check... not as feisty now and doesn't have to be... could be ready to blossom.

Bob Murray can move the puck, skates well and can shoot better than a lot of people give him credit for. Ask some goalies.

Has made steady improvement in six-season career with Hawks...Now among premier backliners in NHL, knocking on all-star door...Good rusher and key man on Hawks' power play...Shot among hardest in league...Spent rookie pro season with Dallas in Central League...Has been a fixture on Hawks' defense ever since.

Missed close to half the 1981-82 season with a knee injury...Returned to be key man in playoff success...Slowly matured into front-line player...Excellent rusher, strong puckhandler with a good shot... Goalies claim he has one of the hardest shots in NHL.

Just as the blackhawks have become a far better team than they used to be, so have their fans become more discriminating. They don't boo Bob Murray anymore. Why they booed him in the first place was a mystery, because from the late 1970s through the early 80s, Murray was one of the best defensemen on teams that were mostly mediocre. The consciousness change on the part of fans seemed to come after Murray tore ligaments in his left knee. absence and an escalating goals against average made the heart grow fonder. For the first time, Murray was out of the lineup for an extended period. The fans lost their scapegoat and the Hawks started losing a lot of games... when Murray returned to the ice last March, the crowd gave him a standing ovation, and rightfully so... "The way he worked to make it back shows a lot of guts and class", recalled trainer Skip Thayer...

since he returned a year ago, seldom has there been heard a discouraging word from the crowds, even though he is having his least productive season since 1978... but his 35 points only skim the surface of what he means to the team. Murray has the best +/- of any hawk defenseman, "Murray is my kind of hockey player," says former Boston coach Don Cherry. The 28-year old Murray's responsibilities include working the PP and he is finding himself taking extra shifts late in the game. "It shouldn't be taken as a reflection of the other defensemen," said Murray. "we have the experience, and that means we should be less suceptible to making mistakes. Someday the guys who are now sitting will be the ones who are out late in the game... defensive players have to work together and it was difficult for me to adjust. I think I made it mentally hard on myself. Doug and I are both basically offensive defensemen and, at first, I was trying too hard to be more defensive. But after playing with Doug for most of the season, I realize I don't have to play that way and lately I haven't. That has helped to open things up. The most satisfying thing about this season is to finally be a consistent winner. The pressure is on every night now, but I enjoy it."

Front-line defenseman who is good at all areas of the game... Very efficient defensively...

Solid, reliable backliner who was one of the few Hawks regulars who had a plus figure in 1983-84... Good defensively and a fine rusher...

Murray is underrated as a defensemen, but he knows how to play his defensive angles well and he reads rushes well too, making him an above average defenseman. Because he's not big and forwards will sometimes beat him on strength, Murray has adopted a smart approach that works very well for him. He is an average skater but is losing a step of his quickness so, not coincidentally, he has toned down his offensive instincts from earlier in his career. He does't rush the puck and he doesn't try to be a fourth offensive attacker as much as he once did. Murray still has a good slapshot from the right point and switches to the left side on the PP. If point coverage isn't good, he'll pinch to the top of the faceoff circle for a shot.

At 5'9", Murray doesn't have a big frame and will not make the play in the corner on strength alone if he runs into a strong, hardworking forward. Vision and ability to move the puck quickly to teammates are Murray's assets here. Because of his strength (or lack thereof) the opposition would like to get Murray isolated in front of the net, where he'll be unable to hold off big forwards... Dependable and consistent, Murray should settle into his 30s nicely with the Hawks because he knows his limitations and plays by them... a very straight shooter of a fellow who knows what he can and can't do. He moves the puck very well and can rush on occasion but doesn't do it much anymore.

Bob Murray is probably one of the most underrated - and DEFINITELY one of the most underappreciated - players in the NHL... he is an above average skater... offensive instincts are still intact, thank you very much. so he's a fixture on the hawk PP... Bob sees the ice very well and can still get the puck to his teammates. He reads the openings and knows when to go for them himself, and when to hang back.

Like old man river, Bob Murray just keeps rolling along. He is dependable and consistent, and plays the game smartly and within his limitations. He's the kind of guy youngsters like Nylund, Bergevin and Manson should be learning from.

Solid, dependable, consistent and unknown: that's Bob Murray. He doesn't do anything fancy, he just gets the puck and moves it out of the Hawks zone quickly, efficiently, and correctly. Murray plays his defensive angles as if he were writing a textbook, and he has to do that because of his size. He reads the offensive rush and anticipates its ramifications very well.

Bob remains an outstanding skater, but he doesn't have the quickness he once had, so he doesn't rush the puck as he used to - at least not when partner Doug Wilson is healthy. When Wilson is out, Murray opens up his offense to compensate. His offensive instincts are very good and that's why he's a fixture on the power play.

He sees the lay well in both zones and gets the puck to his teammates in the opening. He'll pinch in prudently at the blue line and he uses a good slap shot from the point as a scoring weapon.

Murray is a direct contradiction to Darwinian principle of only the strong surviving. Rather, he embodies the theory regarding the inheritance of acquired characteristics: He learned how to be smart, how to play the body when the situation is in his favor, how to make the most of what he has...Murray counters his lack of strength by holding and interfering smartly...

Murray is almost a throwback to those days of strictly defensive defensemen - not that he's always been that way, but 15 NHL seasons will take some starch from your play... he's still a good skater though slow, but Murray makes his skating work by playing his defensive angles smartly. He steps up when he can, but always forces the opposition wide and into the boards. He doesn't put himself into situations from which his skating cannot extricate him; he prudently pinches at the blueline. As such he's unlikely to contribute much by way of offense, but Murray can still turn a play around well from his end with a quick and intelligent pass. He can still find the open man and retains his good instincts, so he'll see some power play time because of that. His slap shot from the point is his scoring weapon...

Murray's physical play is actually a credit to his brainwork. He learned early on that direct confrontation may not best serve his defensive purposes, so he forces the opposition to compete on his terms rather than vice versa. Murray plays the body and ties up his man's stick, but he also uses his hockey sense to amplify his physical play... playing an off-the-bench role for the Hawks now, contributing when he can.

 

[seventieslord]

Martin Straka, F

- 5’9”, 180 lbs
- Placed 4th, 12th in points (2001, 1999)
- Best points percentages: 99, 78, 72, 63, 61, 57
- Killed 15% of his team’s penalties in his career
- Can play all three forward positions and the point on the PP
- Played roughly 50% LW, 35% C, 15% RW
- 717 points in 954 games
- 70 points in 106 playoff games
- Played in NHL All-Star game (1999)
- Olympic Gold (1998)
- 33 points in 48 major international games in 8 tournaments
- Includes 14 points in 20 games in 4 best-on-best tournaments
- remains active in the Czech league, finishing 2nd, 4th, 6th, 8th in points in the last 5 seasons

A speedy forward, he is a great playmaker...

Once again the Penguins struck gold in the face of adversity as Pittsburgh, confronted with the absence of Mario Lemieux, found their next offensive star in Martin Straka... increased playing time and better linemates have brought out the imaginative playmaker's world class offensive talents.

After taking a year to adjust to a new culture and a new style of play, Martin emerged as a major contributor in 93-94... "He's a steady guy," said Penguins coach Ed Johnston. "He's quick and he's not afraid to take a check."

an outstanding finesse player, Straka relies on his skating and hockey sense to create scoring opportunities where lesser players might simply resort to a dump-and-chase tactic. A good passer, he knows how to go to the net and how to hold onto the puck when he’s deep in the opponent’s zone. He’ll hover behind the net, Gretzky style, and look for an outlet in front. Very patient, he has tremendous poise and confidence.

He could shoot more and get more involved. It wouldn’t hurt if he improved his strength, the better to win the battles for the puck in traffic… has quickly developed into one of the Pens’ quiet heroes, scoring his share of goals and holding up his part of the bargain with his teammates, who share his work ethic but not all of whom have his raw ability with the puck. He is among the team’s top 5-6 skill players and the Pens will look to him to continue to improve and develop.

WILL – be an impact NHLer
CANT – be too patient
EXPECT – rapid rise to stardom
DON’T EXPECT – a physical player

He is very good at losing his check in the neutral zone and finding open ice for a pass or shot… a blue chip player, scoring his share of goals and holding up his part of the bargain in both ends of the rink. He is the third young offensive prospect to come to the sens, along with Daigle and Yashin… may prove to be the most productive of the three.

WILL – have to prove himself
CANT – let draft status hinder
EXPECT – steady improvement
DON’T EXPECT – an intense player

A terrific skater, Straka has all the ability in the world, if he can apply it consistently… he can fill the net with his hard shot and great hands, but he has to get motivated for every game… to become expendable in Ottawa and Long Island is a sad testament to his lack of fire. He has proven that his lack of size is not a hindrance. But he hasn’t yet shown that he has the heart to play an 80-game schedule… has more sheer talent than half his teammates, yet is outplayed by them on a regular basis… can be as good as he wants to be.

WILL – have to score more
CANT – delay emergence
EXPECT – ample skill
DON’T EXPECT – burning desire

a speedy little center, a waterbug with imagination. He makes clever little passes that always land on tape and give the recipient time to do something with it. He’s more of a playmaker than a shooter and will have to learn to go to the net more to make his game less predictable. Straka has confidence in his finesse skills. He needs to adjust to smaller ice surfaces. Though he’s a speedy skater who is tough to knock off balance, he is not very strong and can get muscled off the puck in close quarters.

Straka has shown little inclination for the typical North American style of play. He is small and avoids corners and walls, and will have to be teamed with more physical linemates to give him some room… has the raw talent to be an impact player.

was able to adjust to smaller North American ice surfaces because of his ability to stop and start. He doesn’t have the outside speed to burn defenders but creates space for himself with his wheeling in tight spaces. He has good balance and is tough to knock off his feet even though he isn’t very big.

Not a great defensive player, Straka is good five-on-five. He’s an offensive threat every time he steps on the ice… has to learn to protect the puck better with his body and buy some time…

blossomed in sophomore year thanks to absence of Mario Lemieux. Fleet skater with an excellent shot. Finesse style was ineffective during the playoffs.

He draws people to him and creates open space for his linemates… he complemented Radek Bonk well… after a strong rookie season, he saw surprisingly little ice time with the Penguins prior to his trade…

always highly productive for a week or two, then vanishes. His game is a major tease, because when on he can do a lot of things… doesn’t bring much else to the ice when he’s in one of his funks… frustratingly inconsistent… was benched repeatedly in the playoffs.

an astute pickup by the Sens… a quick, finesse-type player with an excellent shot

never really got over his chronic homesickness… was put on waivers by the Isles, and before that, didn’t really do it for the Senators – the two worst teams in the East!... has talent, but he’s unpredictable at best.

shows second line skills and fourth line consistency… a no-impact player who could score 40 of the quietest points in the NHL.

he’ll score goals in bunches, but then play 15 games without a goal, as he did last season…

Panther discard, signed as a free agent, emerged as the most consistent player among Pens’ reconstructed support staff. Quick, crafty and hard working, he became a key penalty killer and is versatile enough to play anywhere.

has finally achieved a level of consistency that matches his skills… he is a perpetual threat… may have finally found a home on a Pittsburgh team that employs a very European style of attack… erased the negatives with a strong regular season and playoffs.

set personal highs while playing the best two-way hockey of his life… a very good skater who is extremely shifty… undersized and not a physical player.

Arguably the league’s biggest revelation… delivered a textbook contract year… versatile… compensates for lack of size with excellent quickness, tenacity and puck skills… a constant shorthanded threat, was also top-ten in even strength production.

one of the Pens’ most important players. Creative and elusive, he is Pittsburgh’s version of the energizer bunny… straka’s best work comes when killing penalties.. in his second stint with the team, he has become the team’s hardest-working forward… can line up at LW or center.

fell off his point-a-game pace. That could have something to do with his shift from center to LW. He likes the open ice at center much better.

although undersized and not much of a physical factor, he does however have good offensive skills and creates plenty of scoring chances with his exceptional speed and hustle… played very well in the postseason.

Straka has elite skills that he applies with the work ethic of a 3rd line grinder. The only thing that keeps from being in the same class as a Jagr or Bure is his shot, which isn’t in the same class as his skating or hockey sense. Most of his goals come from breakaways, where Straka uses his speed, or by pounsing on loose pucks and rebounds. He plays the left point on the PP not because of his shot, but because of his heady puck movement… can intimidate with his speed to hurry a defender into a giveaway… thrived when moved to the left side… was one of the few Penguins who showed up in the playoffs.

was pens’ most consistent forward… versatile and energetic lightweight with terrific speed and determination.. hits top gear quickly and is a crafty playmaker who continually provided his team with an on offensive spark when it was needed, while coming within a point of winning the assist title.

was arguably the pens’ most consistent player… all about quick bursts into the offensive zone and boundless energy all over the ice… has adjusted well to playing LW, and displayed surprising durability… the team’s most dangerous player while shorthanded.

things don’t get much tougher for a player than they did for Straka last season… had 9 points in 11 games, then broke his leg. Played in one game after that injury, and was hit in the face. Came back from the broken face, and reinjured his broken leg. It was a devastating year for Straka, who was coming off a career year… the beating he took last season may cost him speed and agility and could affect him mentally as well… can play center or LW.

everything that could go wrong, did… a formidable penalty killer and better-than-average offensive creator. Lacks natural finish but can score off the rush and also contribute from the point on the PP.

after last year’s hampering misfortunes, it remains to be seen if he can rekindle the same fearless intensity that is a trademark of his game

one of the last valuable commodities on the Penguins, which makes him almost a sure bet to be traded.

various unlucky injuries have bordered on the ridiculous…his all-around hustle and work ethic are contagious.

a crafty, effervescent playmaker, the undersized Straka is a quick, nimble skater whose game is built around his determination and knack for darting through traffic and creating space for his linemates, although he lacked his customary explosiveness lat season.

finally beat the injury bug… slowed down as the season wore on, though… at this point, best suited for second line and top PP unit.

once knocked for his durability, but has only missed five games in two years… experiencing a career renaissance on Broadway… spent most of the year alongside Jagr, though was taken off the big line late in the year… frequently plays the point on the PP.

much tougher than he appears and won’t hesitate to crash high-traffic areas… versatility stood out last season as he began at LW before later being re-deployed as the #2 center.

 

[seventieslord]

Bob Turner, D/W

- 6’0â€, 170 lbs
- Stanley Cup (1956, 1957, 1958, 1959, 1960)
- Stanley Cup Finalist (1962)
- Best defense points percentages: 72, 27, 24, 21, 12, 11
- 8 of his 70 career points were shorthanded

Heavy PK usage: 11.4% of Turner’s points were scored on the penalty kill. Looking at some of the bigger shorthanded scorers of the O6 era, no one’s points breakdown seemed to indicate such a disproportionate usage: Nesterenko scored 7% of his points on the PK, Pulford 6%, Armstrong 3%, Balfour 4%, and only Charlie Burns’ 9.5% comes close. And Burns was a player whose post-expansion icetime was about 25% shorthanded.

note: the HSP is missing at least one Turner SHP (and who knows how many more). I noticed in a newspaper summary that it mentioned Turner scored while Bill Hay was in the box. I decided to check the sheet on the HSP and sure enough, it's listed as an ESG. But look at the times - it's clear it was shorthanded: http://www.flyershistory.com/cgi-bin/poboxscore.cgi?H19620047

Smooth-skating Bob Turner plied his trade far from the spotlight’s glare, an essential role player and one of a dozen men who entered hockey legend by capturing five consecutive Stanley Cups with the Canadiens.

The rangy Regina native was first called to the Canadiens’ blue line in 1955-56 and spent the next six seasons with Montreal. Summoned from the Quebec Senior League’s Shawinigan Cataractes, he played 33 regular season games and all 10 postseason match-ups, having his name added to the Stanley Cup following his rookie campaign.

Serving as the team’s fifth defenseman, then the bottom man on the depth chart, the 6-foot, 170-pound rearguard accepted his lot without complaint. Turner was a reliable, if unspectacular presence, occasionally spelling the team’s top four and getting more ice time when injuries or infractions prevented his teammates from appearing.

Unheralded but far from unappreciated while doing a job where every error is noticed and remembered, Turner’s near-anonymity served as the best indicator of his effectiveness on the ice. A stay-at-home defenseman who rarely put points on the board, Turner scored only eight times for the record five straight championship Habs teams, with half his goals coming in the same season.

Dollard St. Laurent’s departure allowed the lanky defenseman to show that he could step out of his usual role. He scored four times in 1958-59 and assisted on 24 of his teammates’ markers, the only NHL season he put more than a handful of points into the books.

… joining the Montreal Canadiens for the latter half of the 1955-56 season. Turner played solidly, turning a 33 game audition into a spot on the vaunted Montreal Canadiens defense. Talk about incredible timing. The rookie would play solidly, and despite his inexperience he played in all of Montreal's playoff games en route to the first of what would prove to be an unheralded 5 consecutive Stanley Cups!

In total Turner would play 6 seasons in Montreal, scoring just 8 goals in those years. But his job was not about scoring goals, but rather preventing them. Turner took great pride in his trade. The Canadiens reportedly paid a bonus of $1000 to all of their defensemen if the team had the fewest goals against in the whole league. "We always looked forward to that," said Turner, who was never one of the higher paid players in a very low paying era.

Although he contributed to 5 Stanley Cup championships by the time he played 279 games in the NHL, he never felt he had any security in his job. "I wasn't one of the stars on the team," he admits. "I was just hanging on by the skin of my teeth."

In the summer of 1961 Turner was traded to Chicago where he would play 2 more seasons. He even blossomed into an 8 goal scorer in 1961-62.

But in 1963 Turner found himself demoted to the Buffalo Bisons of the AHL. He was quite bitter about the move, considering it a low blow that he did not deserve. "I think it was more of a move to embarrass you. That's one of the reasons there's a union in the league now. They didn't want me to quit. I think they wanted to cut my salary. So I said I was packing it in."

#88: Bob Turner: of all the players who were part of the Canadiens’ dynasty that won five straight cups, none were as quiet and anonymous as a defensive defenseman named Bob Turner… while his contributions aren’t terribly prominent for those who watched the team casually, they were valued by those with whom he played. “Bob Turner was a defenseman, but what a lot of people don’t realize is that Blake used to use him as a forward to kill penalties,†said former broadcaster Dick Irvin. “The Canadiens had a lot of superstars, but they had a lot of guys who could do a lot of things, and Turner was that kind of player.â€

Jean Beliveau: “it was very important that we also had the day-to-day kind of guys you could count on when we played on the road. I remember a guy like Bob Turner, who was a defenseman, but who would move up to play forward on many occasions.â€

…Bob Turner, who had been Doug Harvey’s defense partner…

…Turner: “You guys make me laugh with all your talk about The Trap. It’s the same thing Toe Blake had us doing in the 50s!â€

Bob Turner was a westerner and a fine skater… remarkably consistent performer.

Turner was a classic stay-at-home defenseman whose conservative style perfectly complemented Doug Harvey’s offensive flair.

A smooth-skating defenseman… often paired as stay-at-home with freewheeling Doug Harvey…

As usual trade rumours abounded. Bob Turner, who had become a solid defenseman, was mentioned.

Won five cups partnered with Doug Harvey on defense. “I like the idea of winning the Stanley Cup in Montreal. It was something I got used to.â€

THE PERFECT TEAM:

No 3 defense pair: Bob Turner

The unheralded defenseman came out of Regina to become a valuable handyman, skating alongside such stars as Doug Harvey and Jean Beliveau… Harry Neale: “In his era, most teams played just four defensemen and he always seemed to be number 4 ½ to 5. Teammates and opponents had a much higher evaluation of him than did the fans. He could play with any partner and was as comfortable playing 10 minutes a game as 22.â€

rates as one of the best rookies to show in a long time… was a tower of strength for Shawinigan last year as they captured the Edinburg trophy for minor league supremacy. Bob is big and rugged and plays a rough but effective game.

Wilson reported tonight that ex-Pat Bob Turner “was outstanding†Sunday. “He sifted through the entire Detroit team, and then hit a goal post.â€

well-balanced backliner… what a pleasant addition he turned out to be… became an effective cog in the Habs’ successful 10 game Stanley Cup Crusade last spring. Not overly big, Turner relies on his excellent pokechecking ability to diffuse an enemy attack. He then uses his passing skills to put the Montreal attack in motion.

As has been the case with Guy Talbot, Bob Turner has seldom been given the credit his play has earned for him…. This was particularly so last season when he enjoyed his best NHL season in four, and from a Canadiens’ standpoint at least, was among the top five defensemen in the league.

When opportunity knocked, he seized it with alacrity and stepped jauntily through the threshold into the NHL, where, in just a year, he has established himself as a defenseman destined for stardom... Coach Blake paired Turner with Harvey and they have remained together ever since, one of the best defensive combinations in the league. "It's great to be playing with Harvey. He helps me a lot, telling me things I should do and shouldn't do."... Turner, of course, learns quickly, never making the same mistake twice... Turner began his career on the outdoor rinks of Regina... "I started as a forward but when I discovered that defensemen got more time on the ice, I switched to the blueline, a move I've never regretted."... Bob has always played with winning teams. The Regina Pats, his last amateur affiliation, were a powerhouse when he was with them. Then in his first year at the Falls, the Cataracts won the Edinburgh trophy. Last year, of course, with Turner in the lineup adding strength to the defense, the Habs won the NHL title and went on to wrest the prized Stanley Cup from Detroit... there is no doubt that Turner has arrived as a big league star. He's sure to be around for a long time, winning more and more respect from the opposition, perhaps eventually making the all-star team.

(despite scoring few goals)... still, Turner's value to the Canadiens cannot be underestimated. He played a key role in the Habs' defense when Tom Johnson injured his knee in the latter part of the season. Bob was switched from the left defense to right and displayed some great hockey. During the season he was a standout penalty killer. "I was the 5th defenseman last season. No one likes to sit on the bench. So I'm no different, I'm hoping to become the 4th this season. I've never doubted that I'm good enough to play on this club. This season I hope to get a better chance to show the people."

Canadiens, too, must feel that Turner's value to the club is more than most people are ready to concede. During the offseason they sent defensemen Dollard St. Laurent to the Hawks. It came as a surprise to most of the fans, who, if given the chance, no doubt would have dispatched Turner in Dolly's place. But the fans aren't in the hockey business. Selke, Reardon and Blake are. They see great potential in Turner, this the trade that sent St. Laurent instead of Bob.

...Turner is one of the unsung heroes on the Habs. Does he feel bad because he doesn't get as much ink as most of the other players? "Heck no. We've got a lot of stars on our club and every one of them deserves every line of ink that they get... I think I'll have my day, but I'm not envious of them."

Turner has never been noted as a hard-hitting, fist fighting type of defenseman. "I like to play the puck. I never, or seldom get into fights because, despite how many times you hear it, a players must believe that he gets paid to stay on the ice, not in the penalty box. I've had a few fights. Last season I had one with Dineen and I nearly had one with Labine, I took him into the corner hard and as I skated back he clipped me over the hear. I started to go after him but Red Storey had his eye on me, so I let him go."

Bob's strongest forte on the Habs' defense is his ability to come up with the puck and get it up to his forwards.

Bob Turner provided the highlight of the game... the unheralded defenseman's brilliant play for the Habs' 2nd goal overshadowed Richard's 525th tally... Turner was given a tremendous ovation for his unassisted goal.. he moved up quickly to block Larry Regan's shot at the blueline. Bob recovered the loose puck, outraced Regan down the ice and blasted a 20-foot shot past Johnny Bower's left side.

Turner is a steady fine all-around two-way defenseman. He is also very adroit at killing off penalties and is often used in this manner… like Don Marshall, Turner is a player who would star more with a team other than the talent-laden Montreal club.

One of the unsung heroes of the Habs, Bob was pressed into the all-important role of a penalty killer. Teamed with Donnie Marshall, this duo played fine defensive hockey and harrassed forwards. Forwards throughout the league will agree. Bob has been called by many experts the most underrated player in the league.

Turner, a 27-year old rearguard and five-year veteran, was the key figure in two deals announced yesterday by the Canadiens… he was sent to Chicago in exchange for Freddie Hilts, the leading goal scorer in the EPHL last year… Turner had been with the Habs since the 1955-56 season but seldom played as more than a fifth defenseman and in a penalty killing role… a club spokesman said that Turner could be spared to make room for “some of the young defense prospects in the organization.â€

Campbell said the Black Hawks… added defensive strength by acquiring Bob Turner from Montreal… “he will do the Hawks some good. He was a defense player the Canadiens didn’t need because they were already well supplied.â€

Hawks acquired this vet defenseman from Montreal last summer… was useful for Habs not only on backline but as penalty killer up front… reached scoring peak three years ago as a handy-andy on defense.

Defenseman Bob Turner, who sat on the end of the Montreal Canadiens' bench for 5.5 seasons has developed into a very fine player for the Hawks... Turner was expected to be a 5th defenseman for the Hawks and also be used as a utility forward and penalty killer. He has proven that he can handle a defense job, kill penalties and score goals. One of the most popular members of the chicago club... as an NHL player Turner is big league all the way. He never stops trying, gives his best every game.

Versatility must be Turner’s middle name. He joined the hawks last season and served as spare defenseman, as penalty killer, and as extra forward. Dangerous while team was a man short.

two of the most versatile players in the NHL will be wearing the uniform of the Chicago blackhawks this season. They are Reg Fleming and Bob Turner and give the Blackhawks the personality that can often get a team over the rough road caused by injuries. Both Fleming and Turner are capable defensemen, can play wing on a regular forward line, and together were one of the league's best tandems at killing penalties last season. Each of them performed in all these aspects for the Hawks last season and are a major reason why Chicago is expected to battle Montreal and Toronto for leadership in the NHL this year... Turner is the opposite of Fleming. He is a smooth stickhandler, one of the fastest skaters in the game, and seldom throws a hard check. Although killing penalties most of last season, Turner accounted for eight goals - matching his previous career total in six Montreal seasons.

used as a penalty killer and wherever he might be needed in emergencies. Likes to steal puck and move in for breakaways.

Interesting how Turner the "specialist" was demoted in 1963 so that Hull and Mikita could get more ice time killing penalties. It's clear that within a few years they realized what a big mistake that was and went back to Hay and Nesterenko killing penalties (see Hay's bio):

The idea of all-star center Mikita killing penalties is closely allied to the liberal use of Hull and Reay's idea that there is no room on the modern team for "specialists"... "when you talk about penalty killers, our two best men in that spot would be Hull and Mikita. Look at Detroit when they were riding high. Who killed their penalties? Howe and Lindsay, the best they had." In ruling out the idea of specialists such as penalty killers, Reay made it clear at the beginning of camp that this was a luxury the team could not afford... First victim of this new policy was veteran Bob Turner...

A little study I did last year that is more relevant to AAA players than the current MLD, but does demonstrate Turner absolutely belongs with this MLD class of players and no lower:

Sticking around in a very competitive league

Down here at the AAA level, all the pre-expansion defensemen who had any kind of significant all-star/Norris recognition or noteworthy offensive numbers are gone. The best indicator for their greatness is just how long they were able to hold an NHL job in this era where competition for the few jobs was very fierce. Assuming that positions were granted on merit, just being on an NHL roster back then meant you were approximately one of the 24 best defensemen in the world, which still translates to being a solid #2/3 in terms of today’s talent pool. How good the player’s team was is an important consideration, as well as whether they did anything exceptionally well that made them noteworthy.

See this chart containing all of the 1926-1967 defensemen selected in the last ¾ of the MLD and the AAA so far. If anyone wants the spreadsheet where I did all the work, you can have it, but these are the results. The “total†field is the sum of “seasons worth of games†that they played, since it would not be fair as the schedule went from 30 to 70 games in that time. This field represents how long they had a legitimate claim at being an elite level, top-24-ish defenseman.

The “qual†field is done by weighing out the SRS (hockey-reference’s simple rating system based on team goal differential and strength of schedule) of their teams each season by how many seasons’ worth of games they played. This is very similar to overpass’ calculation that judges how strong a player’s team was over the course of their career. It’s a different metric that means something very similar, but instead of being on a scale of 0 to infinity (0 meaning the team never scored a single goal and infinity meaning they never allowed one, 1 meaning they scored and allowed the exact same amount), this is on a scale where zero represents average, higher is better, lower is worse, and most numbers hover from -1 to +1, with only a few outlying numbers for exceptionally good and bad teams. So a player with a positive score typically played on better than average teams, and a negative score means the opposite. Why is this important? The same reason we talk about it regarding players who played post-expansion. Better teams tend to have deeper lineups that are tougher to crack and stay on. It is more impressive to play 8 years on a perennial contender than 8 years on a bottom feeder. The latter player may not have been able to crack the former’s lineup and the former player, in theory, would easily make the latter’s lineup.

For illustrative purposes, I also included playoff games. Playoff games are a good indication that they a) played a long time and/or were durable, b) played for teams that had success, c) were good enough to get into the lineup in the playoffs, when the bench shortens. I adjusted the playoff game totals slightly for anyone who had any playoff games before 1942 (which is when they changed to the playoff format used throughout the O6 era), using a simple algebraic formula. It didn’t affect much, but I had to do something to account for the era’s shorter playoff series. These players are marked with a *.

I also included quick notes of items that may transcend the calculations. For example, you may disregard icetime for a modern player if they are elite at filling a specific role (fighting, bodychecking, agitating, shotblocking) so it’s possible you’d want to do the same here. I noted a few of those, as well as other considerations such as time played after expansion for Douglas and Hillman (Al MacNeil would not have played another NHL game if the league stayed at 6 teams)

name | Total | Qual | Playoffs | Notable?
Warren Godfrey | 10.50 | -0.21 | 52 |
Alex Smith | 9.96 | -0.06 | 34* |
Reg Hamilton | 8.64 | 0.40 | 66* |
Joe Cooper | 8.41 | -0.08 | 38* |
Hal Laycoe | 7.98 | -0.16 | 40 |
Bill Brydge | 7.96 | -0.47 | 4* |
Stewart Evans | 7.73 | 0.04 | 35* |
Alex Levinsky | 7.66 | 0.03 | 42 |
Lou Fontinato | 7.64 | -0.08 | 21 | Heavyweight fighter
Al Langlois | 7.10 | 0.14 | 53 |
Bob Turner | 6.83 | 0.76 | 68 | 5 stanley cups, could play as PK forward too
Ted Graham | 6.71 | -0.12 | 34* |
Bill Juzda | 6.52 | 0.06 | 42 | Epic bodychecker
Murray Henderson | 6.48 | -0.03 | 41 |
Al MacNeil | 6.43 | 0.39 | 37 |
Lee Fogolin Sr. | 6.20 | -0.34 | 28 |
Ralph Bowman | 5.71 | -0.22 | 26* | Semi-significant Norris votes
Frank Eddolls | 5.05 | 0.06 | 31 | made one ASG on merit
Larry Hillman | 5.01 | 0.28 | 63 | Decorated AHL player, notoriously deep leaf lineup, played 6 seasons after expansion
Al Dewsbury | 5.01 | -0.77 | 14 |
Joe Jerwa | 4.94 | -0.17 | 20 | Twice 2nd in defense points
Kent Douglas | 4.04 | 0.29 | 19 | Semi-significant Norris votes, some AHL awards, deep leaf lineup, 2 seasons post-expansion
Hugh Bolton | 3.36 | 0.03 | 17 | Semi-significant Norris votes, injuries caused at least 2 seasons worth of games missed

Players are ranked in order of how long they “lastedâ€. Considering we have a ton of post-expansion defensemen to choose from right now who have 10+ seasons worth of games played, clearly the idea of simply making an NHL roster when there are only 6 teams should be highly valued. Considering only 10 defensemen have been selected who played over 7 seasons’ worth of games prior to 1967 have been taken in the last 400 picks, (and fewer still remain) it’s obvious that it’s a pretty rare feat.

How does Turner look? He is middle of the pack in terms of how long he lasted at the NHL level (although he ended up leaving on principle and not due to ability), but in terms of the quality of teams he got into games for, his value is through the roof – easily the highest on this list. Bob Turner is, at the absolute worst, an MLD 3rd pairing defenseman but likely a 2nd pairing guy.

 

[seventieslord]

Bob McDougall, RW

- 5'7", 158 lbs
- Stanley Cup (1895, December 1896, 1897, 1898, February 1899)
- Stanley Cup Finalist (1894, February 1896)
- Top-7 in league scoring 4 times (1st, 3rd, 3rd, 3rd, 7th)
- When he was 7th in 1899 he was scoring at a 29% better rate than league leader Harry Trihey
- Best Vs1 scores: 100, 92, 80, 53, 37, 20 (Frank McGee's were 85, 77, 77, 43)
- 52 goals in 33 recorded games, 5 goals in 5 Stanley Cup games
- Not "MacDougall"
- Not "forward". Always a RW.

McDougall was the highest scoring forward before the 1900s in Stanley Cup play. Robert scored a confirmed total of 49 goals in 36 recorded games. Overshadowed today by the likes of fellow teammates and hall of famers Graham Drinkwater and Mike Grant, Robert was consistently one of the Montreal Victorias' highest scoring forwards.

He was the star of the Victorias when they won the stanley cup four (five) times before 1900.

Bob McDougall led the AHA in scoring with ten goals in six games. Just 20 years of age, he attended McGill University for a year before securing a job at the Bank of Montreal.

Graham Drinkwater (below) scored the go ahead goal in the second half. He teamed with xxx and McDougall to form a deadly combination.

He was admired for his great speed and accurate shot.

Bob McDougall tied game one with a goal in the final minute, and scored the cup winner in game two.

This time he and winger Bob MacDougall rushed the puck to the other end "and made the Winnipeg people hold their breath."

xxx and MacDougall made matters tough for Winnipeg defensemen xxx and xxx.

Playing for the tie, xxx and MacDougall went on the attack, and after pouncing on the rebound of a MacDougall shot, xxx's second goal of the game soon evened matters at 4-4.

With xxx's goal having wiped out the Winnipeg lead, the Montrealers sensed their opportunity. xxx and fellow forwards MacDougall, Drinkwater, and xxx (teams in this era had a rover in addition to their centre and two wingers) pressed the play. xxx, Bain, and xxx did what they could do to fight back for Winnipeg, but goalie xxx xxx wasn't about to let the puck slide between his posts. MacDougall put Montreal ahead 5-4...

The Vics' forward line as it is today, with Bowie, Russell, Howard, and Patrick, is perhaps stronger than at any time since the days of MacDougall, xxx, Drinkwater, and xxx

xxx, Bob MacDougall, Graham Drinkwater, and xxx formed the astonishing forward line which delighted the Vics' admirers.

MacDougall and Drinkwater are dead sure shots.

One thing you probably don't know about McDougall and the Victorias (I didn't) is that, like McGee's Ottawa Silver Seven, they received a laughable challenge from an undeserving team. This was in 1897, and the challengers were the Ottawa Caps, champions of the Central Canada Association. The score was 14-2. From The Trail:

The possession of the cup was to be decided in a series of best two in three games. The series was scheduled to take place at the start of the following season. However, the Caps proved no match for the Vics, who trounced them so badly in the first game that the balance of the series was abandoned. The game received so little attention that no informationw as published as to the goal scorers.

With a score of 14-2, we cannot say with certainty how many goals any player scored, but if you go by the distribution of scoring on the Victorias during the regular season, the most likely total for McDougall would be 6. Imagine if the stats for this game were kept. Now, also imagine that the series wasn't cancelled and he got to rack up more goals in a second game, like McGee did. Would McDougall be talked about with the same fanfare that McGee is today? It's possible, since McDougall did have a slightly better peak and longevity as a scorer (though his prime was 8 years earlier), just without the gaudy recorded playoff goal totals.

Goal Scoring Study, pre-1899

Player|Games|Goals|Goals/Game
Clarence McKerrow|26|45|1.73
Haviland Routh|27|46|1.70
Robert MacDougall|33|52|1.58
Harry Trihey|16|22|1.38
Dolly Swift|52|56|1.08
Alf Smith|24|24|1.00
Graham Drinkwater|37|30|.81
Harry Westwick|26|16|.62

From the guy who's done more research of game reports from this era than probably anyone:

He was a good rusher with a really good shot, and was good at finding open ice. The Winnipeg incident seems to be isolated, he wasn't a brute. That's about all I have.

According to Fyffe, McDougall is the most accomplished player of the pre-1900 era, and not by a small margin, either:

1890s Players Meriting Induction
Rank Player Seasons Position Score Hall?
1 McDougall, Bob 1894-1899 7 98.2 No
2 Bain, Dan 1895-1902 5 86.4 Yes
3 Grant, Mike 1894-1902 2 81.1 Yes
4 Swift, Dolly 1887-1899 45 78.7 No
5 Young, Weldy 1891-1899 2 78.0 No
6 Routh, Havilland 1892-1897 4 77.6 No
7 McKerrow, Clare 1896-1899 4 76.5 No
8 Howard, Atty 1891-1906 72 76.0 No

The player with the most notable career in the 1890s, by this method, is Montreal Victorias right winger Bob McDougall. Dan Bain and Mike Grant, who are both in the Hall, come next. They are good selections.

And, the incident that Fyffe was referring to, which is typically the only thing anyone knows about McDougall. It's at the bottom because it's not indicative of his typical play. whether you think it's a plus or a minus, I'm not selling him as a power forward nor do I think it's fair to call him a goon:

Winnipeg captain and forward Donald “Dan” Bain, the Victorias’ best player, was already out of the series due to an eye injury, when Antoine “Tony” Gingras was helped from the ice, the alleged victim of a deliberate attempt to maim by Montréal forward Bob McDougall. Arguably, the “Gingras affair” erupted into the most controversial incident in Stanley Cup history. At the time, Winnipeg newspapers were so incensed by what happened on and off the ice that headlines referred to the incident as a “fiasco.” The Vics could not afford to lose another key player in their bid to reclaim the Stanley Cup they had lost three years earlier to another Montreal team. Gingras, a Métis who had grown up in St. Boniface, was the player the team relied upon to lead them to victory after the untimely injury to Bain. Jack Armytage, the spare Winnipeg forward designated the team’s captain after Bain’s injury, called referee J.A. “Bill” Findlay over to examine Gingras’ leg. Findlay had already blown his whistle to signal that a two-minute penalty was assessed to McDougall (other times spelled Macdougall) for taking out Gingras. However, Armytage insisted that the stick-swinging incident was intentional and warranted the Montréal player’s removal from the game.

By the time the Gingras incident occurred, the Montréal team, also named the Victorias, had erased a two-goal deficit and went ahead of Winnipeg on a goal by McDougall, putting the home team ahead 3-2. When the referee refused to send McDougall off for the duration, the Winnipeg team headed for their dressing room with about 12 minutes left to play in the game (some reports say 13 minutes). After being examined by a physician, it was found that Gingras had suffered a 1 1/2-inch abrasion to the outer side of his right knee. The physician told the visiting Victorias that Gingras would not be able to continue playing. Meanwhile, Findlay said he was insulted by the action taken by the Winnipeg players and refused to resume the game. In fact, he soon went home in a huff, although he was later persuaded to return to the arena. Meanwhile, 8,000 hockey fans at the Montréal Arena (also known as the Westmont Hockey Rink), St. Catherines Street and Wood Avenue — a new artificial ice rink with a 10,000-person capacity — waited fruitlessly for the February 18, 1899, game to resume. According to a statement later issued by Armytage and Winnipeg Victorias club president A. Code to the trustees of the Stanley Cup, McDougall came to the visitors’ dressing room and told the team he had deliberately fouled Gingras. “I made a vicious swipe (with my stick),” he told them, “I lost my temper and I am sorry for it.” Apparently, McDougall also told referee Findlay that the foul he had committed was deliberate. McDougall’s apology was accepted by the Victorias, both Armytage and Code warned Findlay that they would not resume play until a game misconduct was given to McDougall.

In their statement, the Winnipeg officials said Findlay had told them four days earlier at the Windsor Hotel that any deliberate foul involving a player raising his stick to do bodily harm or knock another player out of the game would result in the offending player being ruled off the ice for the duration of the game. Twenty minutes later, Findlay entered the visitors’ dressing room and said the Winnipeg team had to agree to another referee or he would place the entire matter into the hands of the Stanley Cup trustees. “We accepted his ruling to the latter,” Code and Armytage said, “and at once told the players that the game would be placed in the hands of the trustees. The players immediately dressed.” Thirty minutes after the Winnipeg players had put on their street clothes and some had left the arena, Findlay returned to the dressing room and said the players had 15 minutes to return to the ice. “We told him he had already given his decision, and we were acting on it.”

“I must have a decision from the ice tonight (that is, the game had to be completed),” insisted Findlay. “We then asked him why he could change his decision regarding the foul play of McDougall, when he acknowledged to our team he had made a mistake and was sorry for it. “From the start of the match until the players left the ice not one of our team was ever warned by the referee for any infringement of the rules of the game. On the other hand, several of our opponents were.” In their statement, Armytage and Code said they regretted the result of the Saturday night game, and felt deeply sorry for Findlay. “No matter what your decision may be in this matter, we shall be unable to play another game this season for the Stanley Cup, as Captain Bain and Gingras, two of our best men are disabled. Bain will never be able to play again and Gingras not for weeks.”