Paul MacLean

Paul MacLean

Paul MacLean was born on March 9th, 1958

Full Name: Paul MacLean
Nationality: Canadian
Profession: Ice Hockey Coach
Teams Coached: Ottawa Senators
Playing Career: Winnipeg Jets
Position: Right Wing
Height: 6 ft 2 in
Weight: 220 lb

A Hall of Fame defenseman and coach, known for his rugged playing style and successful coaching tenure with the New Jersey Devils. He won a Stanley Cup championship in 1995.

Written by: Liam O'Sullivan Liam O'Sullivan

Paul MacLean: The Distinguished Hockey Coach and Player

Paul MacLean is renowned for his illustrious career as a professional ice hockey coach and former player, earning him the prestigious 2013 Jack Adams Award as the NHL's Coach of the Year. As a seasoned coach, he has led teams such as the Ottawa Senators, Toronto Maple Leafs, and Anaheim Ducks, leaving an indelible mark on the world of hockey.

Early Life and Playing Career

Born on March 9, 1958, in Grostenquin, France, MacLean's father was serving with the Canadian Armed Forces at the time. The family relocated to Canada when MacLean was just two years old, and he grew up in Antigonish, Nova Scotia. His fascination with hockey began at a young age, and he went on to play minor hockey for the Borden team in the 1971 Quebec International PeeWee Hockey Tournament.

MacLean's exceptional skills on the ice earned him a spot on the Hull Olympiques, where he once scored five goals in a single game. This remarkable feat led to a deal with the Quebec Remparts, although the trade was called off before the game ended. During the 1978-79 season, MacLean led the Dalhousie University Tigers to the AUHC championship, posting an impressive 12 goals, 17 assists, and 71 penalty minutes in 18 games.

NHL Career and International Representation

The St. Louis Blues drafted MacLean, and he eventually made his NHL debut. In 1980, he represented Team Canada at the Winter Olympics in Lake Placid, New York, an experience that significantly contributed to his success in the NHL. As a rookie, MacLean scored an impressive 36 goals, and his subsequent trade to the Winnipeg Jets led to three 30-goal seasons and three 40-goal seasons. During this period, he played alongside Dale Hawerchuk, forming a formidable line.

MacLean was selected for the Campbell Conference All-Star Team in the 1985 NHL All-Star Game. He continued to excel, recording another 30-goal season with the Detroit Red Wings before being traded back to St. Louis, along with Adam Oates, in exchange for Tony McKegney and Bernie Federko.

Coaching Career

After retiring as a player, MacLean transitioned to coaching, becoming an assistant coach for the Anaheim Ducks. He later joined the Ottawa Senators as head coach, leading the team to a remarkable turnaround and earning him the Jack Adams Award in 2013. MacLean's coaching career has been marked by his ability to motivate players and improve team performance, demonstrating his expertise in the world of hockey.

Awards and Honors

Legacy and Impact

Paul MacLean's impressive career as a player and coach has left an indelible mark on the world of hockey. His ability to adapt, motivate, and improve team performance has earned him respect and recognition within the NHL community. MacLean's legacy continues to inspire future generations of hockey players and coaches, solidifying his place as one of the most distinguished figures in the sport.

Timeline
1958
Born in Grostenquin, France
Paul MacLean was born on March 9, 1958, in Grostenquin, France. He would go on to become a Canadian ice hockey player and coach.
1978
Made his NHL debut
MacLean made his National Hockey League debut with the St. Louis Blues.
1985
Won the Jack Adams Award
MacLean won the Jack Adams Award, given to the NHLs top coach.
2002
Became the Head Coach of the Columbus Blue Jackets
MacLean became the Head Coach of the Columbus Blue Jackets, a position he held until 2004.
2011
Became the Head Coach of the Ottawa Senators
MacLean became the Head Coach of the Ottawa Senators, leading the team to the playoffs in his first season.
Paul MacLean

Paul MacLean Quiz

What position did Paul MacLean play in his hockey career?

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FAQ
What was Paul MacLeans hockey career like?
Paul MacLean is a Canadian ice hockey player and coach who played in the NHL for 11 seasons and coached the Ottawa Senators from 2011 to 2014.
What are Paul MacLeans coaching achievements?
Paul MacLean led the Ottawa Senators to the playoffs in his first season as head coach and was a finalist for the Jack Adams Award.
What is Paul MacLeans experience as an assistant coach?
Paul MacLean was an assistant coach with the Detroit Red Wings and won two Stanley Cup championships with the team.
Has Paul MacLean received any awards or honors?
Paul MacLean was awarded the NHLs Jack Adams Award as the leagues top coach in 2013.
What is Paul MacLeans post-coaching career like?
After being fired by the Senators, Paul MacLean has worked as an analyst for TSN and has been involved in various charity initiatives.

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