A Canadian ice hockey legend who played, coached, and managed teams, earning numerous awards and inductions into the Hockey Hall of Fame. He's a beloved figure in the hockey world, known for his dedication and contributions to the sport.
Billy Smith is renowned for being the first goalie to be credited with a goal in the NHL, a feat that showcases his exceptional skills and uncanny ability to read the game. With an illustrious career spanning over two decades, Smith won four Stanley Cups with the New York Islanders and solidified his place among the greatest goalies in NHL history.
Born on December 12, 1950, in Canada, Smith's hockey journey began with the Cornwall Royals of the QMJHL. He was drafted by the Los Angeles Kings in the fifth round of the 1970 NHL Amateur Draft and spent two seasons with the Springfield Kings of the American Hockey League, winning the Calder Cup in 1970-71.
Smith made his NHL debut with the Los Angeles Kings on February 12, 1972, at the Montreal Forum. Although the Kings lost 6-5 to the Canadiens, Smith faced 48 shots that afternoon, yielding the winning goal to Guy Lafleur with 22 seconds remaining in the game. He was later drafted by the New York Islanders in the 1972 NHL Expansion Draft, where he shared goaltending duties with Gerry Desjardins for two years before securing the starting job in 1974-75.
Smith's impressive performance led the Islanders to their first playoff appearance in 1975. He played in the 1978 All-Star Game, where he was named Most Valuable Player. For the next two seasons, he shared netminding duties with Chico Resch, forming one of the top goaltending duos in the NHL. In the 1980 playoffs, Smith played most of the games, helping the Islanders win their first of four consecutive Stanley Cups.
Smith's outstanding performance earned him numerous accolades, including a First Team All-Star selection and the Vezina Trophy in 1981-82. He also won the William M. Jennings Trophy for fewest goals allowed in 1982-83, along with Roland Melanson.
In 2017, Smith was named one of the 100 Greatest NHL Players in history, a testament to his enduring legacy in the sport. His impressive career statistics, including 305 wins and 22 shutouts, solidify his position as one of the greatest goalies in NHL history.
Smith's influence extends beyond his on-ice accomplishments. He has inspired generations of goalies, and his passion for the game continues to resonate with fans and players alike.
Smith's personal life has been marked by humility and dedication to his craft. He continues to be involved in the hockey community, sharing his expertise and passion with the next generation of players.
Billy Smith's remarkable journey serves as a testament to his hard work, perseverance, and love for the game. As a true legend of the NHL, his legacy will continue to inspire and awe fans for generations to come.
65 Years Old
The greatest hockey player of all time, holding numerous records, including most career goals and assists, and leading his team to four Stanley Cup championships. A legendary athlete and iconic figure in the sport.
60 Years Old
A legendary hockey player who won two Stanley Cups and is a two-time Olympic gold medalist, known for his incredible on-ice skills and overcoming health issues to dominate the sport.
98 Years Old
Legendary hockey player known for his incredible on-ice longevity, playing professionally until age 52, and scoring over 800 goals in his career.
92 Years Old
Legendary coach with a record nine Stanley Cup championships, known for his innovative systems and ability to adapt to any team.
62 Years Old
A legendary figure in the NHL, coaching teams to Stanley Cup championships and Olympic gold medals, known for his intense and demanding coaching style.
83 Years Old
A legendary figure in Canadian hockey, known for his coaching stints with the Toronto Maple Leafs and Vancouver Canucks, as well as his Olympic gold medal wins.
93 Years Old
Legendary defenseman and coach who won four Stanley Cups with the New York Islanders, holding the record for most games coached in NHL history.
Born in 1925
A four-time Stanley Cup champion and Hall of Famer, known for his rugged playing style and advocacy for players' rights. He later became a popular sportscaster and hockey executive.
