A rugged defenseman who played in the NHL from 1954 to 1963, known for his aggressive playing style and numerous penalty minutes.
Lou Fontinato, nicknamed "Leapin' Louie," was a Canadian defenseman who left an indelible mark on the National Hockey League (NHL) during the 1950s and 1960s. He is remembered for his rugged and fearless playing style, earning him the reputation as one of the most feared enforcers of his time.
Fontinato's NHL career spanned nine seasons, starting with the New York Rangers in 1954-1955 and later playing for the Montreal Canadiens from 1961 to 1963. During his tenure, he led the league in penalty minutes three times, including a record-breaking 202 minutes in the 1957-1958 season.
One of the most notable incidents in Fontinato's career was his infamous fight with Gordie Howe, a Hall of Famer, on February 1, 1959, at Madison Square Garden. The intense battle left Fontinato with a broken nose and dislocated jaw. The two players had a long-standing rivalry that added to the excitement of the games they played against each other.
Tragically, Fontinato's career came to a sudden end in 1963 when he suffered a severe neck injury during a game against the New York Rangers at the Montreal Forum. He missed a check on left winger Vic Hadfield and slammed head-first into the boards, leaving him paralyzed for a month.
After retiring from professional hockey, Fontinato went on to run a successful cattle operation near Eden Mills, Ontario. He passed away on July 3, 2016, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire future generations of hockey players.
In the 2009 book "100 Ranger Greats," Fontinato was ranked No. 95 all-time among the 901 New York Rangers who played during the team's first 82 seasons. His career and iconic fights have been documented in numerous films, including the 1964 National Film Board documentary "Un Jeu Si Simple," which features footage of his career-ending injury.
In an email interview, Gordie Howe himself acknowledged that his fight with Lou Fontinato was the most memorable of his career. This testament to Fontinato's feared reputation as an enforcer is a testament to his impact on the sport.
Fontinato's great-nephew, Greg McKegg, is also a professional ice hockey player, carrying on the family's hockey legacy. This proud tradition is a demonstration of the lasting influence Fontinato had on the sport and those around him.
Lou Fontinato's remarkable career and enduring legacy serve as a testament to his unwavering dedication, fearlessness, and passion for the game of hockey. He remains an iconic figure in the NHL, inspiring generations of players and fans alike.
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.
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.
Born in 1918
A Hall of Fame hockey player, coach, and manager who won three Stanley Cups with the Detroit Red Wings and was a 12-time All-Star. He's known for his on-ice vision and playmaking ability.
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.
99 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.
96 Years Old
Defender who played 1,206 NHL games and coached the Pittsburgh Penguins to a Stanley Cup Finals appearance in 1976. Known for his durability and leadership on the blue line.
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.
