Most iconic numbers in National Hockey League history – Part 3
Toronto Maple Leafs: No. 6
One of the very old players in the list and a legend for Toronto Maple Leafs who wore the number six jersey for them is Ace Bailey. He was not only a very skilled player but was also able to carry the entire weight of the team on his shoulders. There have
been several occasions where he acted as a team saviour.
Though he was part of the franchise from 1927 to 1933, this does not mean that he can be forgotten. He is one of the pioneer players in the club and the National Hockey League who have done a lot in order to bring the sport where it is now. He did not play
much for Maple Leafs participating in only 313 games but what is outstanding is his phenomenal success rate that saw him scoring 111 goals and 82 assists, piling up a total of 193 points.
Though there is nothing commendable about him when it comes to game winning goals, power-play goals or minus/plus but the thing that makes him an important part of history is his ability to gel easily with the side. This with the added ability of carrying
young and old players alongside certainly made him an important asset for the country.
Unfortunately, his career ended in a way which he would have not liked for sure. Neither did Maple Leafs appreciate the fact that one of their premier players got himself injured and later it became a cause of his retirement.
Montreal Canadiens: No. 7
Another addition to the list is Howie Morenz, who was the number seven for the Montreal Canadiens and did quite a lot for the franchise in the time he spent there.
Morenz played in 460 games for the Canadiens and produced 257 goals that have helped the Canadiens on several occasions. In addition, he has 160 assists that take his total points tally to 417 for his career. He spent quite a lot of time with the Canadiens
from 1923-1934 and then from 1936-1937.
His career was highlighted by the fact that he was a very good team man and had excellent leadership qualities. He was a pivotal player in the team who did a lot not only to keep the players together but also to bring a lot of success to the club.
He was signed by the Canadiens on July 7, 1923 and then he was traded to Chicago Blackhawks in 1934. Later he was purchased by New York Rangers. However, he did not last long as ultimately he left the National Hockey League stage after an injury in 1937.
He was surely a great player and one of those players who do not need statistics for what he did. He is one of those players who have been named amongst the top 100 greatest players in the National Hockey League at the 15th spot.
Tags: