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Most Assists NHL History: A Deep Dive into Hockey's Premier Playmakers
Introduction:
The National Hockey League (NHL) is a league of grit, skill, and breathtaking speed. While goals often steal the headlines, the unsung heroes behind many of hockey's most memorable moments are the playmakers – the players who orchestrate the offense, setting up their teammates for success. This post delves into the fascinating history of assists in the NHL, exploring the players who've accumulated the most, the evolution of the assist statistic, and what it takes to become a hockey assist king. We'll examine the records, the players behind the numbers, and the strategies that have led to their phenomenal success. Get ready to uncover the secrets of NHL's most prolific assist-men!
Chapter 1: Wayne Gretzky – The Unmatched Assist King
Wayne Gretzky's dominance in the NHL is legendary, and a significant part of his legacy lies in his unparalleled assist record. His 1,963 assists are a monumental achievement, far surpassing any other player in NHL history. This section will analyze:
Gretzky's Vision and Passing Ability: Examining the unparalleled skillset that enabled Gretzky to consistently find open teammates. We'll explore his hockey IQ, his ability to read the ice, and his pinpoint accuracy in passing.
The Edmonton Oilers Dynasty: How Gretzky's time with the Oilers provided the perfect environment for racking up assists, with a talented roster perfectly suited to his style of play.
The Statistical Anomaly: Analyzing Gretzky's assist record in the context of the game's evolution and considering if it's a record likely to ever be broken.
Chapter 2: The Chasers – Mark Messier and Gordie Howe
While Gretzky’s record seems insurmountable, two hockey legends, Mark Messier and Gordie Howe, stand out as players who have come closest to challenging his reign.
Mark Messier's Leadership and Assist Prowess: Exploring Messier's contributions beyond just assists, showcasing his leadership qualities and how they influenced his ability to set up scoring chances for teammates.
Gordie Howe's Longevity and Skill: Discussing Howe's remarkable longevity in the NHL and how he maintained his high level of play throughout his career, leading to a significant number of assists.
The Difference Makers: Comparing Gretzky, Messier, and Howe's playing styles, team contexts, and era differences to better understand their differing assist totals.
Chapter 3: The Evolution of the Assist Statistic and its Significance
The meaning and recording of assists in the NHL has evolved over time.
Early Days of Assist Recording: Examining the inconsistencies in recording assists in the early days of the NHL and how these differences impact historical comparisons.
Modern Definition of an Assist: Clarifying the current NHL definition of an assist and the criteria a player must meet to receive credit for one.
The Importance of Assists in Modern Hockey: Discussing the strategic value of assists in today's NHL, highlighting the importance of team play and the role of playmakers in offensive success.
Chapter 4: Modern-Day Assist Leaders and Future Prospects
The modern NHL boasts exceptional talent, with several players consistently racking up assists.
Current Top Assist Leaders: Profiling active players who are currently leading the charge in assist totals and their chances to significantly climb the all-time rankings.
The Next Generation of Playmakers: Identifying promising young players who display the potential to become future assist leaders, considering their skills and playing styles.
Predicting Future Records: Speculating on the likelihood of anyone surpassing Gretzky's assist record, considering the modern game and the evolving nature of hockey.
Conclusion:
The pursuit of the most assists in NHL history is a testament to exceptional skill, vision, and teamwork. While Wayne Gretzky's record appears untouchable, the quest for greatness continues, with each generation of players striving to leave their mark on the game. The evolution of the assist statistic itself reflects the broader changes in hockey strategy and team dynamics. This journey through NHL assist history offers a captivating glimpse into the sport's rich heritage and its enduring pursuit of excellence.
Article Outline:
I. Introduction: Hooking the reader and providing an overview.
II. Chapter 1: Wayne Gretzky – The Unmatched Assist King: Analyzing Gretzky's dominance.
III. Chapter 2: The Chasers – Mark Messier and Gordie Howe: Comparing Gretzky's rivals.
IV. Chapter 3: The Evolution of the Assist Statistic and its Significance: Exploring the history of assist recording.
V. Chapter 4: Modern-Day Assist Leaders and Future Prospects: Examining current and future assist leaders.
VI. Conclusion: Summarizing key findings and offering concluding thoughts.
(The detailed content for each chapter is provided above in the main article.)
FAQs:
1. Who holds the NHL record for most assists? Wayne Gretzky, with 1,963 assists.
2. How many assists did Mark Messier have in his career? Mark Messier had 1,193 assists.
3. What is the current definition of an assist in the NHL? An assist is awarded to a player who directly assists on a goal by passing the puck to the player who scores.
4. Is Gretzky's assist record likely to be broken? It's highly unlikely given the magnitude of the record and the statistical anomaly it represents.
5. Who are some of the current top assist leaders in the NHL? This will vary year to year but consistently strong contenders should be named and their current stats referenced.
6. How has the role of the playmaker changed in the NHL over time? The role has evolved with changes in team strategy and offensive tactics.
7. What are some of the key skills needed to be a successful assist leader? Vision, passing accuracy, puck-handling skills, and hockey IQ are crucial.
8. What impact does team context have on a player's assist total? Playing on a high-scoring team significantly improves a player's opportunity to rack up assists.
9. Are there any statistical anomalies in historical assist data that need to be considered? The inconsistencies in early assist recording methods affect direct comparison of players from different eras.
Related Articles:
1. NHL All-Time Scoring Leaders: A comprehensive list of the NHL's top scorers, including goals and points.
2. The Greatest NHL Players of All Time: A ranking of the most influential and skilled players in NHL history.
3. Evolution of Hockey Strategy: A look at how hockey strategy and tactics have changed over time.
4. NHL Playoff Assist Leaders: A focus on the players who have recorded the most assists during the NHL playoffs.
5. The Impact of Power Plays on NHL Assists: How power-play opportunities contribute to a player's assist totals.
6. The Role of Centers in NHL Assists: The importance of center players in creating scoring opportunities and recording assists.
7. Comparing NHL Assist Leaders Across Different Eras: A statistical comparison of top assist leaders from different eras in NHL history.
8. NHL's Top Playmakers by Decade: Analyzing assist leaders in different decades, highlighting generational shifts in playmaking.
9. Predicting Future NHL Assist Records: A projection based on current player performance and future potential.
| most assists nhl history: Hockey's Most Wanted™ Floyd Conner, 2002-10-31 The history of hockey is filled with the bizarre, the unexpected, and the hard to believe. Hockey's Most Wanted™ chronicles 700 of the most outrageous players, coaches, and owners in hockey history. In humorous detail, Floyd Conner describes hockey’s top-ten strange plays, inept players, bizarre nicknames, craziest fans, colorful characters, unlikely heroes, odious owners, worst coaches, beleaguered officials, most brutal fights, and more. Learn why Dave Reece was nicknamed “the Human Sieve,” and find out which goalie once gave up fifteen goals in a game. Meet the player who was whistled for a record sixty-seven penalty minutes in a single game and another who played in the National Hockey League for five years before scoring his first goal. Imagine scoring the winning goal in the seventh and deciding game of the Stanley Cup—for the opposing team—or how it felt to be the defenseman traded for a net. You can find all this and more in Hockey's Most Wanted™, a book that every hockey fan will enjoy. |
| most assists nhl history: The Sports Hall of Fame Encyclopedia Dave Blevins, 2011-12-23 In 1936, the Baseball Hall of Fame was established to honor the legends of the sport. The first inductees were some of the greatest names of the dugout, including Ty Cobb and Babe Ruth. Less than ten years later, in 1945, the Hockey Hall of Fame inducted its first members. The Soccer Hall of Fame was established in 1950, followed by the Basketball Hall of Fame in 1959, and the Football Hall of Fame in 1963. In all, more than 1,400 inductees—players, teams, and behind the scenes personnel—have been enshrined in these five halls of fame. The Sports Hall of Fame Encyclopedia is a comprehensive listing of each inductee elected into one or more of these major sports halls of fame. From Hank Aaron to Fred Zollner, this book contains biographical information, sport and position(s) played, and career statistics (when applicable) of each of the more than 1,400 honorees. The book also includes specific appendixes for each shrine, in which inductees are listed alphabetically and by year of induction. Also included are appendixes briefly describing the history of each hall of fame. |
| most assists nhl history: The Sports Hall of Fame Encyclopedia David Blevins, 2012 Provides a comprehensive listing, including biographical information and statistics, of each athlete inducted into one of the major sports halls of fame. |
| most assists nhl history: Historical Dictionary of Ice Hockey Laurel Zeisler, 2012-12-19 The earliest forms of ice hockey developed over the centuries in numerous cold weather countries. In the 17th century, a game similar to hockey was played in Holland known as kolven. But the modern sport of ice hockey arose from the efforts of college students and British soldiers in eastern Canada in the mid-19th century. Since then, ice hockey has moved from neighborhood lakes and ponds to international competitions, such as the Summit Series and the Winter Olympics. Historical Dictionary of Ice Hockey traces the history and evolution of hockey in general, as well as individual topics, from their beginnings to the present, through a chronology, an introductory essay, appendixes, and an extensive bibliography. The dictionary has more than 600 cross-referenced entries on the players, general managers, managers, coaches, and referees, as well as entries for teams, leagues, rules, and statistical categories. This book is an excellent access point for students, researchers, and anyone wanting to know more about ice hockey. |
| most assists nhl history: The Gretzky, Orr, Bailey, Crozier, Avery Hockey Poetry Omnibus Martin Avery, 2016-02-19 The Gretzky, Orr, Bailey, Crosby, Avery Hockey Poetry Omnibus, by Martin Avery, is a hat-trick of poetry books with 1. The Hockey Jersey, 2, Gretzky Versus Orr, and 3. Ace Bailey Versus Roger Crozier, like three periods in a wild hockey game. |
| most assists nhl history: Dennis Maruk Dennis Maruk, Ken Reid, 2017-10-17 From feared NHL sniper to ship captain and bellhop — with hockey’s greatest ’stache Only 20 men in NHL history have scored 60 or more goals in a single season: Gretzky, Lemieux, and Hull all hit the magical mark. And so did an undersized, take-no-prisoners centre named Dennis Maruk. When Maruk found the back of the net 60 times in 1981–82, he was the toast of Washington — he even dined with the president. A few short years later, he was out of the game. Maruk not only left the rink, his life did a complete 180. Instead of flying up the ice and in on goal, he was behind the wheel of a service ship in the Gulf of Mexico. Instead of setting up teammates, he was setting up furniture for Goldie Hawn. He was never sent down to the farm as a rookie, but after the game he was a farmhand for John Oates. And instead of fighting in the corners, Dennis Maruk found himself fighting for his life. p.p1 {margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 16.0px Times; -webkit-text-stroke: #000000} span.s1 {font-kerning: none} p.p1 {margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 16.0px Times; -webkit-text-stroke: #000000} span.s1 {font-kerning: none} |
| most assists nhl history: Greatest Sports Heroes of All Times Paul J. Christopher, Alicia Marie Smith, 2006-08 Hold it! You really think we can come up with 50 greatest sports heroes? Well, we can and we have. Our heroes are not simply limited to the most popular spectator sports. On occasion our heroes go back several generations, not just to the names in the papers or the sports talk shows. Who are they? Well, certainly Jordan, Woods and Ming...but are you old enough to remember Max Schmeling or George Best? There are a lot more where they come from...skiers, cyclists, golfers and runners-all the best and more. What did they do and why are they great? The book offers: a quick, personal biography of each of our famous athletes; summary statistics of some of the most important successes; the good, the bad and the ugly of their sports careers; why these individuals went on to influence their sport; and trivia questions to challenge your knowledge and more. |
| most assists nhl history: NHL Official Guide and Record Book 2008 Dan Diamond, National Hockey League, 2007-09 |
| most assists nhl history: Now You Know Hockey Doug Lennox, 2008-09-29 As Canadians, we all think we know hockey inside and out, but Doug Lennox, the head referee of Q&A, delivers the score on everything from All-Stars to Zambonis and stickhandles the skinny on who wore the first mask in hockey, how the term hat trick originated, and just where hockey was invented. Along the way, you’ll discover all sorts of fascinating things about the giants of the game, from Jean Beliveau and Sidney Crosby to Gordie Howe and Alexander Ovechkin. Who was the first black player in the NHL? Where did the word deke come from? What was the greatest women’s hockey team of all time? How did the Rocket Richard riot start? Who was the first Russian to play in the NHL? When was the Stanley Cup not awarded? What team beat Canada for the gold medal in the 1936 Winter Olympics? |
| most assists nhl history: Hockey Guide, 1998-1999 Sporting News, 1998-08 Packed with stats and facts on every level of the game, starting with the 1997-98 National Hockey League season. |
| most assists nhl history: Big-Time Hockey Records Bruce Berglund, 2021-08 SMACK! Nothing beats the excitement of a player slapping the puck into the goal for a game-winning goal--except when that big slap shot sets a new record! Behind every big-time hockey record is a dramatic story of how a player or team achieved greatness on the ice. From incredible scoring plays to the greatest goaltending performances, here are the record-setting moments that will keep hockey fans turning the page for more. |
| most assists nhl history: The Home Team Roy MacGregor, 2015-09-08 Shortlisted for the Governor General’s Award “A truly magnificent book.” —Calgary Herald It’s the great Canadian icon: a frozen creek, a backyard rink, a father passing something precious on to his child—the love of a game. There is nothing quite so Canadian as hockey, and nothing quite so evocative in hockey as the relationships between Canadian hockey players and their fathers. Here are the personal tales of Wayne Gretzky, Mark Messier, Paul Coffey and Marty McSorley, told as the four NHL stars take their fathers on a hockey tour of Europe. Here are the memories of hockey’s grand families: Gordie, Mark and Travis Howe; Bill, Kevin and Gord Dineen; Murray, Ken and Michael Dryden. Here is Brett Hull’s story of the famous father who was never home. But The Home Team is about more than famous names. It is the story of the father and son left weeping in the stands at the end of a disappointing draft day. It is the story of a minor league coach and his house league son. This book is about hockey. It is also about where we live and who we are: a book for all fathers and sons in Canada. |
| most assists nhl history: The National Hockey League, 1917-1967 Marshall D. Wright, 2014-01-10 This is a statistical history of the National Hockey League in its first 50 seasons. It provides every statistic for every player for every game, including playoff games. A full introduction puts the tremendous amount of data contained within the book in its historical context, and each chapter then recounts a single season. An explanatory essay illuminating the most important attributes of a particular season introduces each chapter. |
| most assists nhl history: Now You Know Absolutely Everything Doug Lennox, 2013-12-06 This bundle presents Doug Lennox’s popular trivia book series in its entirety. These books will provide years and years of fun, with countless questions to be asked and tons of knowledge to be learned. The books cover general trivia but also such topics as sports (baseball, hockey, football, golf, soccer, among others), Christmas and the Bible, disasters and harsh weather, royal figures, crime and criminology, important people in Canada’s history, and so much more! Along the way we find out the answers to such questions as: Why do the British drive on the left and North Americans on the right? What football team was named after a Burt Reynolds character? Who started the first forensics laboratory? Which member of the British royal family competed at the Olympics? Lennox’s exhaustive series is fun for all ages. Includes Now You Know Now You Know More Now You Know Almost Everything Now You Know, Volume 4 Now You Know Big Book of Answers Now You Know Christmas Now You Know Big Book of Answers 2 Now You Know Golf Now You Know Hockey Now You Know Soccer Now You Know Football Now You Know Big Book of Sports Now You Know Baseball Now You Know Crime Scenes Now You Know Extreme Weather Now You Know Disasters Now You Know Pirates Now You Know Royalty Now You Know Canada’s Heroes Now You Know The Bible |
| most assists nhl history: Hockey Super Stats Jeff Savage, 2017-08-01 A great way to learn about hockey is through statistics, and this book is full of them! From hat tricks and shutouts to penalty minutes and Stanley Cup Championships, explore some of the most amazing and interesting stats in hockey history. Graphs, charts, and fun facts on every page highlight the most incredible stats for both teams and individuals. Learn why the numbers are important and how players, fans, and coaches use stats in every game. |
| most assists nhl history: NHL Records Forever Andrew Podnieks, 2011 Records Forever celebrates many of the NHL's most amazing stats, records and achievements. With a contemporary design and loads of incredible hockey photographs, this is a must-have for any hockey fan. Hockey fans love records. They love to see what player holds the record for most points, most goals, the greatest number of assists and most amount of penalty minutes. True hockey fans pour over stats and player achievements for hours and enthusiastically await the opportunity to share their in-depth hockey knowledge with others. Each season, there is a new points leader and records created one year are surpassed another. But for some players and teams, their achievements are so great that their record is considered next to unbeatable. To better Wayne Gretzky's 2,857 career points for example would require that a player have 29 consecutive 100 point seasons. Unimaginable! How about the Buffalo Sabres scoring 9 goals in a single period - when will that happen again? Or George Hainsworth's 22 shut-outs in a single season - with today's sharpshooters, goalies are peppered with more shots than ever before and protecting a win, let alone a shutout, let alone 22 shutouts in a season, is an incredible challenge! Records Forever is an exciting tribute to the thrilling sport of hockey. Designed with a flair for ease of access and to enthusiastically convey each record, this book will contain vibrant colours, splashed with NHL themes and logos, incredible photographs and fantastic hockey writing that will leave fans marveling over each record and applauding the players and teams for each of their incredible talents and achievements. |
| most assists nhl history: Complete Hockey Book Craig Carter, Mark Shimabukuro, 1992 Actually two books in one--guide and register--this comprehensive, easy-to-use volume combines everything readers want to know about hockey in 1992-1993, whether it's the National Hockey League, the minor leagues, amateur play, or the colleges. Includes stats, records, and award winners; a preview of the upcoming NHL season; career stats and personal data; and more. |
| most assists nhl history: The Fire Inside : Celebrating 25 Years of Calgary Frames Spirit Abd Hockey History Calgary Flames (Hockey team), Monica Zurowski, Calgary Herald (Firm), 2006 |
| most assists nhl history: Now You Know Big Book of Sports Doug Lennox, 2009-09-07 Doug Lennox, the world champion of trivia, is back to score touchdowns, hit homers, and knock in holes-in-one every time with a colossal compendium of Q&A athletics that has all anyone could possibly want to know about sports, from archery and cycling to skiing and wrestling and everything in between. |
| most assists nhl history: 1,000 Amazing Record Breakers DK, 2024-11-05 This book brings you the first, fastest, longest, largest, biggest, and best records in the world. Track the world's longest migrations, visit the coolest place on the planet (Vostok Station, Antarctica - a chilling -89.2oC), see how plane pioneer Chuck Yeager first broke the sound barrier, and much more. The greatest human achievements are showcased, from pioneering inventors to modern feats of engineering, technology, transport, and sport. But there's far more than just people power in this book! There are also records about animals, plants, Earth, and space. Amazing facts pack this fantastic book of world records. It's the perfect gift book for curious kids. |
| most assists nhl history: Simply the Best Mike Johnston, 2011-02-01 What makes players simply the best? That’s what coach Mike Johnston and former NHL great Ryan Walter set out to discover in Simply the Best: Players on Performance. The authors interviewed these top competitors to discover how they prepare to be the best in the world, how they lead a dressing room from the inside out, and how coaches best inspire their winning performances. In their previous book, the hugely successful Simply the Best: Insights and Strategies from Great Hockey Coaches, Johnston and Walter asked top hockey coaches to talk about the methods they use to get the best performance from their players. In seeking the players’ perspective, the authors have again compiled fascinating information that is as relevant to the game of life as it is to hockey. Young and old alike will be inspired and motivated as they gain access to exclusive insights directly from the players. Simply the Best: Players on Performance is not only a must-read for hockey fans, players, and coaches, but will also resonate with anyone pursuing excellence, individually or as part of a team. |
| most assists nhl history: Guinness World Records 2015 Craig Glenday, 2015-03-10 Celebrate sixty years of jaw-dropping records. From the oldest person who ever lived (at 122) to the first music video filmed in space, from the tallest self-built castle to the fastest blindfolded text message—the most amazing feats from around the world can be found in this special diamond anniversary edition. Guinness World Records 2015 presents the most astonishing and exciting record breakers ever. Filled with don’t-try-this-at-home human exploits, natural and technological wonders, incredible achievements in sports and entertainment, and much more, this fully updated edition introduces thrilling new records and extraordinary facts that will fascinate young and old alike. Did you know that . . . • On December 8, 2013, Metallica became the first music act to have performed on all seven continents when they played their “Freeze ’Em All” show for a crowd of 120 at Antarctica’s Carlini Station? • Researchers at the Joint Institute for Laboratory Astrophysics have created the most accurate clock ever, which will keep time to the second for 4.5 billion years? • The New Jersey Zombie Walk of Asbury Park recaptured its title—from the Zombie Pub Crawl of Minneapolis—as the biggest undead get-together, with a mind-blowing 9,592 participants? And that’s just a taste of what you’ll find inside this absorbing book. The world has changed a lot in the last sixty years—for proof, check out the biggest crowdfunding successes or the largest gathering of people twerking. One thing remains the same: Nobody does records like Guinness World Records. |
| most assists nhl history: Orr Bobby Orr, 2013-10-15 One of the greatest sports figures of all time at last breaks his silence in a memoir as unique as the man himself. Number 4. It is just about the most common number in hockey, but invoke that number and you can only be talking about one player -- the man often referred to as the greatest ever to play the game: Bobby Orr. From 1966 through the mid-70s he could change a game just by stepping on the ice. Orr could do things that others simply couldn’t, and while teammates and opponents alike scrambled to keep up, at times they could do little more than stop and watch. Many of his records still stand today and he remains the gold standard by which all other players are judged. Mention his name to any hockey fan – or to anyone in New England – and a look of awe will appear. |
| most assists nhl history: So You Think You're a Philadelphia Flyers Fan? Skip Clayton, 2018-10-09 So You Think You’re a Philadelphia Flyers Fan? tests and expands your knowledge of Flyers hockey. Rather than merely posing questions and providing answers, it will give you the details behind each—stories that bring to life players and coaches, games and seasons. This book is divided into multiple parts, with progressively more difficult questions in each new section. Along the way, you’ll learn more about the great Flyers players and coaches of the past and present, from Bobby Clarke to Bernie Parent, Bill Barber, Fred Shero, Rick MacLeish, Brian Propp, Mike Keenan, Mark Howe, Tim Kerr, Ron Hextall, Eric Desjardins, Jeremy Roenick, Chris Pronger, Eric Lindros, Mark Recchi, Simon Gagne, Wayne Simmonds, and so many more. Some of the many questions that this book answers include: • What goalie recorded the first shutout in team history? • Which former Flyers coach later won a Stanley Cup for another team? • Who scored the very first regular-season overtime goal for the Flyers? • What opponent went forty-two games without beating the Flyers at the Spectrum? This book makes the perfect gift for any fan of the Fly Guys! |
| most assists nhl history: Hockey Guide, 1997-1998 Sporting News, 1997-08 Readers will find stats and facts on every level of the game, starting with the 1996-97 National Hockey League season, final standings, statistical milestones, Hall of Fame list, preview of the upcoming season, and more. |
| most assists nhl history: Minnesota Hockey Greats Jeff H. Olson, 2022-08-22 A chronicle of Minnesota's hockey excellence in the world's top hockey league--the NHL The years 1960 to 1982 were a watershed moment for Minnesota hockey, and the Land of 10,000 Lakes has enjoyed hockey success ever since. In that time, pioneering homegrown players like Bill Nyrop, Dave Langevin, Reed Larson, Mike Ramsey, Dave Christian, Neal Broten, Paul Holmgren, and Phil Housley established themselves as bona fide stars at the games' highest and most competitive level. More recently, another remarkable group of native sons--including Zach Parise, Blake Wheeler, Dustin Byfuglein, and T. J. Oshie--left their mark on the league. Profiling more than seventy players and compiling Minnesota NHL records gathered nowhere else, Jeff Olson celebrates the brilliant achievements of Minnesotans in the National Hockey League. |
| most assists nhl history: This Day in Sports History Ray G. Claveran, I have been an avid sports fan since the 1950s. Prior to the ’60s, I played in high school and two years of college basketball and was on the college golf team. Today I am a life member of the PGA of America. So I can say that I have had a love affair with sports. I truly believe that true, honest, and fair competition in sports build character. To compete in any sporting event and to win fair and square is something to be proud of. If you did not win fairly, then there is nothing to be proud of. If you did not win fairly, you did not win; you lost. You should never accept first place if you know it belongs to another. RAY G. CLAVERAN |
| most assists nhl history: The NHL Official Guide and Record Book 2001 National Hockey League, 2000-10 This edition features an expanded format making it easier to read and includes new statistics, such as game-winning goals, average time on ice per game played and hits. It also includes an index of every retired player since 1917, photos and records of every current player, a section on hot prospects, and a detailed breakdown of the NHL draft. 100 photos, illustrations throughout. |
| most assists nhl history: Bernie Federko Bernie Federko, Jeremy Rutherford, 2018-10-16 Take a look in the St. Louis Blues' record books, and the name Bernie Federko is impossible to miss. A skilled, unselfish playmaker, Federko made those around him better; while his journey did lead him to the Hall of Fame, he is regarded by many as one of the most overlooked talents in hockey. In this volume, Federko reflects on his life on and off the ice. From his childhood in Foam Lake, Saskatchewan, to years in St. Louis playing with teammates like Brian Sutter and Mike Liut, and his recent years in the Blues' broadcasting booth, this is a refreshing chronicle of a legendary career. |
| most assists nhl history: 99: Stories of the Game Wayne Gretzky, Kirstie McLellan Day, 2016-10-15 #1 NATIONAL BESTSELLER First he rewrote the record book. Now, to mark the NHL's ninety-ninth anniversary, Wayne Gretzky has written the story of our game. In 99: Stories of the Game, Gretzky looks back on the last ninety-nine years and tells us, from his point of view, about the NHL’s most memorable moments. We already know what he means to the game. Now he shows us what the game means to him. From hockey's fierce early battles on natural ice; through its mythical golden era, where Howe, Richard, Béliveau, Hull, Orr, and Esposito defined greatness; through the unforgettable dynasties in Montreal, New York, and Edmonton and the success stories of today’s NHL, Gretzky takes us onto the ice and into the dressing room to share never-before-published stories about the great players and great characters who have inspired him. With the insight of someone who knows the incomparable thrill of lifting the Stanley Cup, as well as the agony of falling short against a bitter rival, Gretzky weaves in his own memories with the saga of the game that has meant so much to him. Warm, direct, and personal, these are accounts of friendship and rivalry, triumphs and upsets, role players and heroes. All of them great stories of the game. |
| most assists nhl history: The History of The NHL And The Stanley Cup James Bren, The History of the NHL and the Stanley Cup is a captivating and comprehensive exploration of the legendary journey of the National Hockey League and its most coveted prize, the Stanley Cup. Authored by James Bren, this definitive book takes readers on an extraordinary odyssey through the origins, triumphs, and transformative moments that have shaped the NHL and immortalized the Stanley Cup as an iconic symbol of hockey excellence. With meticulous research and an engaging narrative, James Bren chronicles the remarkable evolution of the NHL and its premier championship trophy. Starting from its humble beginnings in 1893, the book traces the growth of the league, the fierce rivalries, and the rise of legendary teams and players that have left an indelible mark on the sport. Through captivating storytelling, readers are transported to the early days of the Original Six era, where hockey dynasties like the Montreal Canadiens, Toronto Maple Leafs, and Detroit Red Wings reigned supreme. They will relive the defining moments that have become the fabric of hockey history, from legendary rivalries to the heroics of iconic players who etched their names into the annals of the game. The History of the NHL and the Stanley Cup goes beyond the on-ice action and delves into the broader cultural impact of hockey. It explores how the game has woven itself into the fabric of society, bringing communities together and igniting passion and national pride. From the Miracle on Ice to the international stage, the book examines how the NHL and the Stanley Cup have become synonymous with the spirit of competition and the pursuit of athletic greatness. James Bren's expert analysis and deep knowledge of the sport are evident throughout the book as he reveals the untold stories, unforgettable moments, and enduring legacies that have defined the NHL. Drawing on a wealth of archival material, personal interviews, and historical accounts, he provides a comprehensive and engaging narrative that will captivate both avid hockey fans and newcomers to the sport. The History of the NHL and the Stanley Cup is a testament to the resilience, passion, and unwavering spirit of hockey. It is a tribute to the men and women who have contributed to the growth and success of the league, and a celebration of the iconic moments that have made the pursuit of the Stanley Cup a timeless quest for glory. Whether you're a die-hard fan, a casual observer, or simply curious about the rich history of the NHL, this book offers an immersive and enlightening journey through the triumphs, challenges, and triumphs of one of the world's most beloved sports. Immerse yourself in the legacy, the drama, and the sheer magic of the NHL and the Stanley Cup as you uncover the captivating story that has unfolded on the ice for over a century. |
| most assists nhl history: The Sound of One Team Sucking Christopher Gudgeon, 2017-02-25 A hilarious self-help book for recovering Leafs fans everywhere. We’ve all heard it. The sound of one team sucking. Our team. The Leafs. It starts as an almost imperceptible hum, a month or so after the home opener, once the shine of the new season wears off, building in intensity with each defeat until the sound explodes like the noise a star might make if you ripped its heart out. Fact is, being a Maple Leafs fan is a kind of addiction: irrational, compulsive, dependent. You can’t just quit cold turkey. You need help ... And that’s where The Sound of One Team Sucking comes in. Think of it as your own portable support group, designed to accompany you through another disappointing season (plus draft day!), and guide your recovery as you strive to live a more emotionally and spiritually balanced life. Written by Leafs addicts, The Sound of One Team Sucking is a hilarious meditation on the futility of Leafs fandom. |
| most assists nhl history: The Great Defender Larry Robinson, Kevin Shea, 2014-11-04 Legendary Canadien and Hockey Hall of Fame inductee Larry Robinson takes readers rink-side in this highly anticipated and poignantly told memoir. Larry Robinson spent 20 seasons playing in the NHL -- seventeen with the Montreal Canadiens and retiring from the game after his final 3 seasons with the LA Kings. His great size gave his teams an incredible presence on the blue line and a tremendous defender in front of their net. But he was more than just big. He was agile, he could score and he played a style that provided both offensive and defensive strengths. For his effort, Robinson was twice recognized as the NHL's top defencemen and his contribution helped the Canadiens win the Stanley Cup six times during his tenure with the team. Never afraid to drop his gloves and play a physical game, Robinson is and will forever be regarded as one of the NHL's greatest defencemen. In The Great Defender, Robinson relives his road to the NHL and the unexpected NHL journey that has lasted over 4 decades. He has enjoyed the good fortune of playing with greats, including Ken Dryden and Guy Lafleur to coaching the greatest of all--Wayne Gretzky. His successes as a player and coach are well-documented and in his memoir, hockey fans will now enjoy the opportunity to experience the odyssey of this legendary player as seen through his eyes, lived through his emotions, and told through his voice. Robinson's story is one of triumph and will leave readers cheering for the man fondly nicknamed Big Bird. In the process of writing this book, bestselling sports writer Kevin Shea interviewed many of Robinson's teammates, colleagues, players and family members and spent countless hours with Larry himself to capture a fascinating picture of one of hockey's greatest careers. |
| most assists nhl history: Frozen in Time Adam Raider, 2014-12-01 In 1967 the National Hockey League decided to double its size from six teams to twelve. This expansion was the first of its kind, and Minnesota, with its rich hockey history, was a natural choice for a new franchise. Thus the Minnesota North Stars were born. Frozen in Time examines the organization’s signature seasons, from the late 1970s, when the club was at its worst, to its two surprising runs to the Stanley Cup Finals. The book recalls the exploits of characters such as Wren Blair, the firebrand ex-scout who would become the team’s first coach and general manager, and owner Norm Green, the man who moved the team to Texas in 1993, making him one of the most hated men in Minnesota. Here, too, is the tragic story of Bill Masterton, an original North Star whose death in 1968 as the result of an on-ice injury remains the only one in the history of the league. The team’s engaging history is brought to life with vivid recollections from former players and legends, including Cesare Maniago, Tom Reid, and Bobby Smith, and from journalists, broadcasters, front office executives, and faithful fans. Also including season-by-season summaries, player profiles, and statistics, Frozen in Time offers an authoritative and nostalgic look at Minnesota’s still-beloved North Stars and a bygone era of pro hockey. |
| most assists nhl history: Hockey 365 Mike Commito, 2018-09-08 Hockey historian Mike Commito brings a new piece of hockey history for every day of the year. |
| most assists nhl history: Pil the Hockey Chronicle Publications International, Limited, 2005 A year-by-year replay of the quest for the Stanley Cup. Updated with more than 1,000 short stories. Timeline that pinpoints each significant detail of every hockey season. More than 1,000 photos, many in full-color. |
| most assists nhl history: Who's who in Hockey Stan Fischler, Shirley Fischler, 2003 If there is one book that's missing from the ever-growing number of hockey books available, it is an A-to-Z guide of the sport's all-time greatest stars. Finally, that book has arrived. Veteran hockey authors Stan and Shirley Fischler's Who's Who in Hockey is the complete guide to the game's greatest players.This indispensable hockey reference book features all of the sport's most notable players, from Wayne Gretzky and Howie Morenz to Rocket Richard, Marcel Pronovost, and Bep Guidolin.For easy reference, this comprehensive 480-page volume is divided into three parts: pre-World War II players, World War II to Expansion, and From 1967-68 to the present.Each player's entry includes his biography, personal statistics, and career highlights, along with anecdotal information. In addition to player listings, this power-packed book will include: o Dozens of player photoso Capsule histories of every past and present NHL franchiseo The colorful history behind the Stanley Cupo Profiles of the game's best coaches and managers o Profiles of others who've helped make the game great, such as Pete and Jerry Cusimano, who pioneered the Detroit tradition of throwing octopuses onto the ice for luck.Perhaps the most complete compendium of biographies on hockey's greatest players ever published, Who's Who in Hockey will be a hot item with both die-hard and newer fans of this popular professional sport. |
| most assists nhl history: Canadian Who's Who 2008 Elizabeth Lumley, 2008-01-05 Now in its ninety-eighth year of publication, this standard Canadian reference source contains the most comprehensive and authoritative biographical information on notable living Canadians. Those listed are carefully selected because of the positions they hold in Canadian society, or because of the contribution they have made to life in Canada. The volume is updated annually to ensure accuracy, and 600 new entries are added each year to keep current with developing trends and issues in Canadian society. Included are outstanding Canadians from all walks of life: politics, media, academia, business, sports and the arts, from every area of human activity. Each entry details birth date and place, education, family, career history, memberships, creative works, honours and awards, and full addresses. Indispensable to researchers, students, media, business, government and schools, Canadian Who's Who is an invaluable source of general knowledge. The complete text of Canadian Who's Who is also available on CD-ROM, in a comprehensively indexed and fully searchable format. Search 'astronaut' or 'entrepreneur of the year,' 'aboriginal achievement award' and 'Order of Canada' and discover a wealth of information. Fast, easy and more accessible than ever, the Canadian Who's Who on CD-ROM is an essential addition to your electronic library. |
| most assists nhl history: The Ultimate Book of Hockey Trivia for Kids Eric Zweig, 2015-09 Three volumes of Hockey Trivia for Kids are now in one rock 'em, sock 'em bind-up! Become a hockey trivia superstar with The Ultimate Book of Hockey Trivia for Kids. Did you know that the Sutter family out of Alberta boasts SIX hockey stars? Or that Hockey Night in Canada's three stars of the game was a tradition started by an oil company? Go beyond player stats and team records and find out about the cool details only die-hard hockey fans know. It's Crazy Canadian Trivia meets Hockey Superstars with a full third of the book devoted to our beloved Stanley Cup, and lots of photos and illustrations throughout. |
| most assists nhl history: Guinness World Records, 2004 , 2003 Briefly describes record breaking achievements and records held pertaining to human achievement and natural occurances. |
