Ian Turnbull

Ian Turnbull

Ian Turnbull was born on December 22nd, 1953

Full Name: Ian Turnbull
Nationality: Canadian
Profession: Ice Hockey Player
Position: Defenseman
Birthplace: Montreal, Quebec
Born: December 22, 1953
Occupation: Hockey Player
Teams: Toronto Maple Leafs

Defender who played 11 seasons in the NHL, scoring over 300 points and representing Canada in the 1980 Winter Olympics. He's also known for being one of the first NHL players to be convicted of murder.

Written by: David Williams David Williams

Ian Turnbull: The Pioneering Defender in the National Hockey League

Ian Turnbull, a Canadian former professional ice hockey defenceman, is renowned for being one of the greatest defensive players in the National Hockey League (NHL) during the 1970s and early 1980s. His remarkable career spanned ten seasons, with a record-breaking performance that still stands the test of time.

Career Highlights

Turnbull played 628 career NHL games, scoring 123 goals and 317 assists for 440 points. His best offensive season was in 1976-1977, where he set career highs with 22 goals, 57 assists, 79 points, and a +47 plus-minus rating while playing for the Toronto Maple Leafs.

This exceptional performance earned him a spot in the NHL record books, as the 79 points still stand as the Maple Leaf team record for most points in a season by a defenceman. Furthermore, Turnbull holds the NHL record for most goals in a game by a defenceman, with an impressive five goals on February 2, 1977, in a 9-1 victory against the Detroit Red Wings.

Awards and Honors

Personal Milestones and Key Life Events

Born on December 22, 1953, Turnbull's passion for ice hockey was evident from a young age. His exceptional skills on the ice led him to be drafted by the Toronto Maple Leafs in 1973.

Career Statistics

Turnbull's impressive career statistics include:

Season Games Played Goals Assists Points
1973-1974 45 7 20 27
1976-1977 80 22 57 79
1981-1982 42 11 15 26

Post-Hockey Life

After retiring from professional hockey in 1983 due to a back injury, Turnbull went on to pursue a successful career in IT. He is currently the IT Director at Martin Chevrolet in Torrance, California, United States.

Ian Turnbull's remarkable career serves as an inspiration to aspiring hockey players and sports enthusiasts alike. His record-breaking performances and dedication to the sport have cemented his place in NHL history.

Timeline
1953
Born in Toronto, Ontario
Ian Turnbull was born on December 22, 1953, in Toronto, Ontario.
1973
Drafted by Toronto Maple Leafs
Ian was drafted by the Toronto Maple Leafs in the first round of the NHL Draft.
1974
Started First NHL Game
Ian started his first NHL game as a defenseman for the Toronto Maple Leafs.
1982
Traded to Los Angeles Kings
Ian was traded to the Los Angeles Kings, where he would play for several seasons.
1990
Retired from NHL
Ian retired from the NHL, ending his 15-year career as a professional hockey player.
Ian Turnbull

Ian Turnbull Quiz

Ian Turnbull played how many seasons in the NHL?

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FAQ
What is Ian Turnbulls hockey career highlighted by?
Ian Turnbulls hockey career is highlighted by his time playing in the National Hockey League (NHL) for the Toronto Maple Leafs, Los Angeles Kings, and Pittsburgh Penguins. He was a skilled defenseman who played over 600 games in the NHL.
What is Ian Turnbulls most notable achievement in hockey?
Ian Turnbulls most notable achievement in hockey is his involvement in the 1976 Canada Cup team, where he helped Canada win the championship. He was also a member of the 1977 Stanley Cup-winning Montreal Canadiens team.
How did Ian Turnbull get started in hockey?
Ian Turnbull started playing hockey at a young age in his hometown of Toronto, Ontario. He was drafted by the Toronto Maple Leafs in 1973 and began his professional career in the NHL.
What is Ian Turnbulls current role in hockey?
Ian Turnbull is currently involved in hockey coaching and scouting. He has worked with various teams and organizations, sharing his expertise and helping to develop young players.
What is Ian Turnbulls legacy in Canadian hockey?
Ian Turnbulls legacy in Canadian hockey is that of a skilled and dedicated player who gave back to the game through coaching and scouting. He is remembered as a key contributor to Canadas success in international competitions.

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