A skilled and versatile player who won four Stanley Cups with the Montreal Canadiens, and later coached several NHL teams. Known for his smooth skating and playmaking abilities.
Don McKenney, a Canadian ice hockey forward and coach, is best known for his impressive skills on the ice, leading the Boston Bruins in scoring multiple times and earning recognition for his sportsmanship and defensive play. With a career spanning over a decade, McKenney left an indelible mark on the world of hockey.
Born on April 30, 1934, McKenney was signed by the Boston Bruins as a teenager and played junior hockey for the OHA Barrie Flyers. During his time with the Flyers, he finished second in team scoring in 1952 and third in 1953, earning him the captaincy of the team in 1953.
Mckenney made his professional debut with the Bruins' American Hockey League Hershey Bears farm team in the 1953-1954 season. Despite being hampered by injuries, he played well in the playoffs, helping the Bears reach the Calder Cup finals. In 1954, McKenney was promoted to the Bruins and led the team in scoring in his rookie season, finishing second in Calder Memorial Trophy voting for rookie of the year.
Throughout his career, McKenney received numerous accolades, including six straight seasons of top-four finishes in league voting for the Lady Byng Memorial Trophy, awarded for sportsmanship combined with a high level of performance. He also never finished lower than third in team scoring during his time with the Bruins.
After retiring from playing, McKenney went on to coach for Northeastern University for over twenty years, leaving a lasting impact on the hockey community. His coaching career was marked by his ability to develop players and instill a strong work ethic, earning him a reputation as a respected coach.
Mckenney passed away on December 19, 2022, leaving behind a legacy as one of the smoothest and classiest players in hockey history. His dedication to the sport and his commitment to excellence continue to inspire future generations of hockey players.
Don McKenney's remarkable career, both on and off the ice, has cemented his place as one of the greatest hockey players of all time, and his legacy continues to inspire and influence the sport to this day.
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.
87 Years Old
Scored over 700 goals in his NHL career, leading the Chicago Blackhawks to a Stanley Cup championship in 1961. Known for his incredible speed and powerful shot.
94 Years Old
Legendary Montreal Canadiens captain and four-time Stanley Cup champion, known for his exceptional leadership and scoring prowess.
Born in 1921
Legendary hockey player and coach, known for being the first to score 50 goals in a single season and leading the Montreal Canadiens to eight Stanley Cup championships.
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.
98 Years Old
A four-time Stanley Cup champion as a player and coach, he's most known for his impressive hockey career and later serving as a Member of Parliament.
96 Years Old
Goalie who won four Stanley Cups and holds the record for most wins in the NHL, known for his pioneering butterfly style of play.
94 Years Old
A legendary figure in the NHL, serving as a player, coach, and manager, known for his 22-year tenure with the Detroit Red Wings, leading the team to three Stanley Cup championships. He's a Hockey Hall of Famer and one of the greatest leaders in NHL history.