Notorious for his blistering slapshot and rugged defensive play, this hockey player was a three-time NHL All-Star and holds the record for the hardest shot in NHL history.
Al Iafrate is a name synonymous with hockey greatness, particularly when it comes to one of the most feared slapshots in the sport's history. With a record-breaking velocity of 105.2 miles per hour, Iafrate's shot was a force to be reckoned with, striking fear into the hearts of goalies across the NHL.
Born on March 21, 1966, in Dearborn, Michigan, Iafrate grew up in Livonia, Michigan, with a passion for hockey. He played in the 1979 Quebec International PeeWee Hockey Tournament as a youth, showcasing his skills alongside other talented young players.
The Toronto Maple Leafs selected Iafrate fourth overall in the 1984 NHL Entry Draft, following an impressive stint with the Windsor Compuware Spitfires and a brief but distinguished stay with the Belleville Bulls of the Ontario Hockey League (OHL). His NHL debut came in 1984, and he went on to play 68 games as a rookie defenseman, scoring 21 points for the struggling Maple Leafs.
In 1993, Iafrate set a record for the fastest slapshot in NHL history during the NHL Skills Competition, reaching a velocity of 105.2 miles per hour. This record stood for an impressive 16 years, until Zdeno Chára of the Boston Bruins broke it in 2009 with a shot clocked at 105.4 miles per hour.
Iafrate represented the United States at the 1984 Winter Olympics in Sarajevo, Yugoslavia, and again at the 1998 IIHF World Championship. His international experience and accomplishments further solidified his reputation as a top-notch defenseman.
Throughout his NHL career, Iafrate played for the Toronto Maple Leafs, Washington Capitals, and San Jose Sharks. He scored 22 goals and 52 points in the 1987-1988 season, earning him a spot in the NHL All-Star Game. Injuries limited him to 65 games the following year, but he bounced back in the 1989-1990 season, scoring 21 goals and 63 points and making a return trip to the All-Star Game.
Iafrate's incredible slapshot and impressive career have left an indelible mark on the world of hockey. He continues to inspire young players and remains an beloved figure in the hockey community.
In the summer of 1984, Iafrate was involved in a car accident with teammate Mike Vellucci, which left Vellucci with a broken back and Iafrate with broken ribs.
Iafrate's slapshot was so feared that opposing teams would often employ defensive strategies specifically designed to counter his powerful shot.
Despite his impressive career, Iafrate's playing days were marked by injuries, which ultimately forced him to retire in 1998.
65 Years Old
A legendary defenseman who won five Norris Trophies and holds the record for most goals, assists, and points by a defenseman in NHL history. He's a Boston Bruins icon and one of the greatest players of all time.
65 Years Old
A Hall of Fame defenseman who holds the record for most goals, assists, and points by a defenseman in NHL history, known for his incredible speed and scoring ability.
64 Years Old
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58 Years Old
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75 Years Old
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49 Years Old
A towering defenseman who captained the Boston Bruins to a Stanley Cup championship and holds the record for most games played by a defenseman in NHL history.
