Pit Martin: The Twoway Centre Who Left an Indelible Mark on the NHL

A Legendary Career and One of the Most Onesided Trades in History

Pit Martin, born Hubert Jacques Martin on December 9, 1943, was a Canadian professional ice hockey centre who captained the Chicago Black Hawks of the National Hockey League (NHL) from 1975 to 1977. He is remembered for being involved in one of the most lopsided trades in hockey history, which cemented his place as a skilled twoway centre in the annals of the sport.

Early Life and Career

Martin's hockey journey began when he was scouted by former NHL goaltender Wilf Cude, joining the Detroit Red Wings organization. Nicknamed "Pit" after a comic strip character in a French newspaper, Martin made his NHL debut with the Red Wings in 1961-1962. He scored his first NHL goal on December 7, 1963, in a 5-2 loss to the Montreal Canadiens.

Rise to Prominence and the Infamous Trade

Martin's skills on the ice earned him a spot with the Boston Bruins, where he played from 1965 to 1967. On January 27, 1966, he scored four goals in a single game, leading Boston to a 5-3 victory over Chicago. However, in May 1967, Martin, along with Gilles Marotte and Jack Norris, was traded to the Chicago Black Hawks for Phil Esposito, Ken Hodge, and Fred Stanfield. This trade would go down in history as one of the most onesided deals in NHL history, with Esposito, Hodge, and Stanfield forming the core of future Boston powerhouse teams.

A Decade of Excellence with the Black Hawks

Despite being on the "wrong" side of the trade, Martin starred for the Black Hawks for ten seasons, earning four consecutive NHL All-Star Game selections. He wore the number 7 jersey and recorded 324 goals and 485 assists for 809 points in 1101 career NHL games. His best statistical season was the 1972-1973 campaign, where he set career highs with 61 assists and 90 points, adding ten goals in the playoffs as the Hawks made it to the Stanley Cup finals.

Legacy and Tragic Passing

Pit Martin's impressive career was cut short when he tragically passed away on November 30, 2008, following a snowmobile accident on Lake Kanasuta near Rouyn-Noranda, Quebec. He was pronounced dead on December 1, 2008, leaving behind a legacy as a skilled twoway centre and an enduring memory in the hearts of hockey fans.

Key Statistics and Achievements

• Played 1101 career NHL games from 1961-1962 to 1978-1979
• Recorded 324 goals and 485 assists for 809 points
• Selected to play in four consecutive NHL All-Star Games
• Won the Bill Masterton Memorial Trophy
• Captained the Chicago Black Hawks from 1975 to 1977

Remembering Pit Martin

Pit Martin's tenure on the ice was marked by his unwavering dedication, skill, and sportsmanship. His untimely passing was a tragic loss for the hockey world, but his legacy continues to inspire new generations of players and fans alike. As we look back on his remarkable career, we are reminded of the enduring power of sports to bring people together and transcend boundaries.