A legendary defenseman who won five Norris Trophies and holds the record for most goals, assists, and points by a defenseman in NHL history. He's a Boston Bruins icon and one of the greatest players of all time.
Ray Bourque, a Canadian former professional ice hockey player, holds a plethora of records in the National Hockey League (NHL), including most career goals, assists, and points by a defenceman. With a career spanning over two decades, he has left an indelible mark on the sport, earning the reputation as one of the greatest defencemen in NHL history.
Born on December 28, 1960, in Saint-Laurent, Quebec, Bourque was raised bilingual, speaking both English and French at home. His parents, Raymond Bourque Sr. and Anita Allain, originally from New Brunswick, instilled in him a passion for hockey, which would eventually become his life's calling.
Bourque's junior career was marked by excellence, playing for the Trois-Rivières Draveurs and Sorel Éperviers of the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League (QMJHL). He was named the league's best defenceman in 1978 and 1979, showcasing his exceptional skills and setting the stage for his future success.
The Boston Bruins drafted Bourque eighth overall in the 1979 NHL Entry Draft, and he quickly became an integral part of the team, playing 21 seasons and serving as the team's longest-serving captain. He won the James Norris Memorial Trophy as the NHL's best defenceman five times, finishing second for the award a further six times.
Bourque's impressive career was punctuated by numerous accolades, including 19 end-of-season All-Star team selections, 13 on the first team and six on the second team. He also twice finished second in the voting for the Hart Memorial Trophy, a rare feat for a defenceman.
Representing Canada on the international stage, Bourque participated in the 1981 and 1987 Canada Cups, as well as the 1998 Winter Olympics in Nagano, Japan. His dedication to his country and his sport earned him a reputation as one of the greatest defencemen to ever wear the maple leaf.
In 2017, Bourque was named one of the 100 Greatest NHL Players, a testament to his enduring influence on the sport. His on-ice accomplishments, combined with his leadership and sportsmanship, have inspired generations of hockey players and fans alike.
Bourque's personal life has been marked by tragedy, including the loss of his mother to cancer at the age of 12 and his father's passing in 2009. Despite these challenges, he has remained committed to giving back to his community, actively participating in charitable initiatives throughout his career.
Today, Bourque continues to be involved in the world of hockey, serving as a ambassador for the sport and an inspiration to aspiring players everywhere.
83 Years Old
A legendary Hall of Famer who dominated the NHL as a prolific goal-scorer and later became a successful coach and executive, known for his iconic mustache and charismatic personality.
59 Years Old
A former NHL defenseman turned executive, known for his playing career and current role as the general manager of the Boston Bruins.
46 Years Old
A dominant center in the NHL, known for his exceptional playmaking ability and consistent point production. He's a four-time NHL scoring champion and one of the greatest set-up men in league history.
48 Years Old
A towering defenseman who captained the Boston Bruins to a Stanley Cup championship and holds the record for most games played by a defenseman in NHL history.
40 Years Old
A highly skilled and decorated center in the National Hockey League, known for his exceptional two-way play, leadership, and numerous Stanley Cup championships.
60 Years Old
A legendary hockey player who won two Stanley Cups and is a two-time Olympic gold medalist, known for his incredible on-ice skills and overcoming health issues to dominate the sport.
