I don't recall watching him play at all. In fact, I'm sure I never really did. I was extremely young during his days, spent a lot of time playing He-Man and G.I. Joes etc etc, and the North Stars weren't exactly on t.v up here in small town Alberta too often.
What I do know is that he was a very talented player, taken 1st overall in the 1977 OHA Draft (Gretzky went 3rd), taken 10th overall in that famous 1979 NHL Draft, an put up some pretty decent numbers with the North Stars.
Health issues, which included a concussion from a Tiger Williams punch in the head, missing time with a paralyzed face and being diagnosed with Bell's Palsy, and breaking bone in his back, as well as off-ice issues (alcohol) really derailed him and shortened his career. Things spiraled and landed him in trouble with the FBI, and 5 years in jail.
His story is pretty tragic, yet triumphant in the end. Seems he eventually found his calling.
Seeing what anyone who watched him or knows about him can contribute. Also feel free to post about any other players with similar career paths and tragic endings, to what could have been careers.
Anyways, this story is pretty amazing.
6:15 and worth the watch
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