Defender who played 15 seasons in the NHL, winning four Stanley Cups with the Montreal Canadiens. He's a member of the Hockey Hall of Fame.
Known for his physical defensive prowess on the ice, Willie Mitchell is a Canadian former professional ice hockey defenseman who left an indelible mark on the National Hockey League (NHL). With a career spanning over 15 years, Mitchell earned a reputation as a stalwart defensive presence, winning two Stanley Cups and representing Team Canada in the 2004 World Championships.
Born on April 23, 1977, in Port McNeill, British Columbia, Mitchell grew up in a family steeped in hockey tradition. His grandfather, Les Mitchell, played amateur senior hockey and even earned a tryout with the New York Rangers during the Original Six era. Mitchell's father, Reid, was a retired heavy-duty mechanic, while his mother, Nadija, was a Croatian-born immigrant who worked for B.C. Ferries.
Mitchell's junior career saw him play in the British Columbia Hockey League (BCHL) and Saskatchewan Junior Hockey League (SJHL) before joining the Clarkson Knights of ECAC Hockey in 1997. During his time at Clarkson, Mitchell won an ECAC championship in 1999, earning playoff MVP and ECAC First Team All-Star honors.
The New Jersey Devils selected Mitchell in the 1996 NHL Entry Draft. He played two seasons with the Albany River Rats of the American Hockey League (AHL) while earning limited playing time with the Devils over two seasons. In 2001, Mitchell was traded to the Minnesota Wild, where he played four seasons before a brief stint with the Dallas Stars.
In 2006, Mitchell signed with the Vancouver Canucks, earning the team's top defenseman honors twice, in 2008 and 2009. After four seasons in Vancouver, Mitchell signed with the Los Angeles Kings in August 2010, winning two Stanley Cups in 2012 and 2014. He finished his NHL career with the Florida Panthers in the 2014-2015 season.
Mitchell represented Team Canada at the 2004 World Championships, capturing a gold medal. This experience not only showcased his skills on the international stage but also solidified his reputation as a tenacious defenseman.
Throughout his career, Mitchell's perseverance and dedication to his craft inspired countless young players. His journey from junior hockey to the NHL is a testament to the power of hard work and determination. As a role model, Mitchell demonstrated the importance of resilience, grit, and passion for the game.
As Mitchell's career comes to a close, his legacy as a tenacious defenseman and champion will continue to inspire generations of hockey players to come.
64 Years Old
The greatest hockey player of all time, holding numerous records, including most career goals and assists, and leading his team to four Stanley Cup championships. A legendary athlete and iconic figure in the sport.
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.
97 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.
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.
86 Years Old
Scored over 700 goals in his NHL career, leading the Chicago Blackhawks to a Stanley Cup championship in 1961. Known for his incredible speed and powerful shot.
85 Years Old
A Slovak-Canadian ice hockey player and sportscaster who won the Hart Memorial Trophy and Art Ross Trophy, and is known for his on-ice accomplishments and charismatic broadcasting style.
89 Years Old
A Hall of Fame center who won a record 11 Stanley Cup championships with the Montreal Canadiens, earning the nickname "The Pocket Rocket" for his speed and agility.
Born in 1921
Legendary hockey player and coach, known for being the first to score 50 goals in a single season and leading the Montreal Canadiens to eight Stanley Cup championships.
