Goalie and coach who won two Stanley Cups with Montreal Canadiens and later managed the team to another championship. Known for his calm and positional goaltending style.
Gerry McNeil, a professional ice hockey goaltender, is renowned for winning three Stanley Cups with the Montreal Canadiens between 1947 and 1956. His remarkable skills on the ice earned him a prominent place in hockey history, cementing his legacy as one of the greatest goalies of his time.
McNeil signed with the Canadiens in 1943 when he was just 17 years old. During his early years, he played for the Montreal Royals of the Quebec Senior Hockey League (QSHL), where he won the Byng of Vimy award for the most valuable player three times. In 1947, the Royals won the Allan Cup, solidifying McNeil's reputation as a talented young goalie.
In March 1950, McNeil was called up from the Cincinnati Mohawks of the American Hockey League (AHL) to replace the injured Bill Durnan, the Canadiens' starting goalie. McNeil's impressive performance, recording a 1.50 goals against average (GAA) over six games, earned him the Schaefer player of the week award. This rookie performance marked the beginning of his successful career with the Canadiens.
McNeil played every game for the Canadiens from March 1950 to November 1952, a remarkable streak that included two entire 70-game seasons. During this period, he led the team to two Stanley Cup championships. In the 1951 Stanley Cup playoffs, McNeil achieved an impressive 214 minutes of shutout hockey against the powerful Detroit Red Wings, including two marathon overtime games at the Detroit Olympia.
Gerry McNeil's exceptional goaltending skills and achievements left an indelible mark on the hockey world. His impressive career with the Canadiens paved the way for future generations of goalies, solidifying his place as one of the greatest goalies in NHL history.
Today, McNeil's legacy continues to inspire hockey enthusiasts, serving as a testament to his dedication, hard work, and passion for the game.
Born in 1912
Legendary coach who led the Montreal Canadiens to eight Stanley Cup championships, and is considered one of the greatest coaches in NHL history.
Born in 1925
Built a hockey empire by transforming the Montreal Canadiens into a dynasty, winning nine Stanley Cups as their general manager. He's also credited with shaping the modern NHL.
90 Years Old
A Hall of Fame center who won a record 11 Stanley Cup championships with the Montreal Canadiens, earning the nickname "The Pocket Rocket" for his speed and agility.
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.
97 Years Old
Goalie pioneer who introduced the first goalie mask and won six Stanley Cups with Montreal Canadiens, revolutionizing the sport with innovative playing style and equipment.
Born in 1924
A Hall of Fame defenseman and coach, known for his innovative and aggressive playing style, which earned him numerous awards and accolades.
93 Years Old
A defenseman who played 17 seasons in the NHL and later coached several teams, known for his rugged defensive style and Stanley Cup championships.
72 Years Old
A Hall of Fame left winger who won five Stanley Cups with the Montreal Canadiens and is known for his defensive prowess, earning him the Frank J. Selke Trophy four times.
