A LOOK AT PHIL SAMIS

 THE OLDEST LIVING FORMER MAPLE LEAF TURNS 93

When Howie Meeker passed away in November of this year, Philip Lawrence Samis, born in Edmonton, Alberta, on December 28, 1927, became the oldest living former Toronto Maple Leaf.

Samis played bantam and juvenile hockey in his hometown prior to heading east to join the St. Michaels College School hockey program, which was sponsored by the Toronto Maple Leafs. A local scout advised Conn Smythe of the prospect he discovered playing defence in the Edmonton minor hockey system.

The Toronto Telegram made note that Samis' arrival marked the second consecutive year an Edmontonian joined St. Mike's. The previous season, Johnny McCormack made the trip from Edmonton to Toronto.

At the young age of 16, a whole new experience opened up for Samis. He attended the Leafs' training camp in Owen Sound, Ontario, on October 10, 1944. There were no expectations he would earn a roster spot with the big-club, and as anticipated, Samis went to St. Mike's to further his studies and play hockey for the St. Mike's Buzzers.

The Buzzers were part of the prep-group (Junior B) that played in the Ontario Hockey Association.

On March 7, 1945, the Buzzers captured the prep-group championship, when they ousted Del La Salle College. "Phil Samis ... starred on the Irish rearguard," noted one report.

After getting past Del La Salle, the Buzzers won series against the Niagara Falls Cataracts and Oshawa Bees.

Next up for the Buzzers, was the OHA Junior B final, and a best-of-five battle with the Stratford Kroehlers. The Buzzers were led by their top line of Red Kelly, Ed Sandford and Ed Harrison. The Buzzers swept the final when they defeated Stratford at Maple Leaf Gardens on April 10. During the competition, one newspaper observed, "Phil Samis, a grim character to encounter, rushed dangerously, and checked well on defence." 

The "grim character to encounter" quote was in reference to Samis' physical presence on the ice. In nine playoff games, he accumulated twenty-two penalty minutes, which was the most in this category. Samis' rugged stature enabled him to stand his ground and not back down from bigger and aggressive foe. 

A subsequent article described him as being a "bulwark." (A solid wall-like structure raised for defence)  

Father Flanagan, who coached the Buzzers, heaped praise on his player's. "They are a great bunch of kids. They gave everything in each game, fighting hard all the way."

Although the Buzzers had successfully completed their playoff run, Samis' run was to continue. 

While the Buzzers were done, their Junior A counterpart, the St. Mike's Majors, still had another round of hockey to play. Under the tutelage of former Leaf icon, Joe Primeau, the Majors opened the Memorial Cup final against the Moose Jaw Canucks on April 14, in Toronto, at the Gardens. And Samis was with the team when they set out to win junior hockey's most prized trophy.

It was an opportunity for Samis to experience new aspects of the game. The most obvious, and perhaps, the most important, was being coached by Primeau. He may have not received an abundance of personal attention, but Samis was exposed to Primeau's dressing room lectures and instructions relayed behind the bench. Samis, who only played in two games, was in a win-win situation. 

Also, his new teammates, showed tremendous potential and skills. Included in this group were future Leafs' Johnny McCormack, Gus Mortson, Jimmy Thomson and Les Costello.

On April 23, the Majors downed Moose Jaw by a score of 7-2, to capture the Memorial Cup in five games.

The following season, 1945-46, Samis became a member of the OHA Junior A Oshawa Generals. There was no definitive explanation given for the move, only the fact he was attending high school and playing hockey in Oshawa. Decades later, Samis told me it was a matter of being more comfortable with his surroundings in Oshawa. 

Under head coach, Charlie Conacher, Joe Primeau's linemate on the famous Kid Line (along with Harvey Jackson), Samis, once again, benefited from playing for a former pro. In his new surroundings, Samis demonstrated he could make an impact on offence. In 27 contests, he scored 11 goals and 9 points for 20 points. He maintained his brute force and led the league with eighty-three penalty minutes.

Samis closed out his junior career in 1946-47, with the Oshawa Generals.

Come the autumn of 1947, Samis attended the Toronto Maple Leafs' hockey school, which took place in St. Catharines, Ontario. Conn Smythe started the school - which was designed to allow the hierarchy to evaluate prospects in the organization - a year earlier, and the only player to graduate to the main camp was Howie Meeker. 

In the second term, Samis and Andy Barbe, were the only students to make the grade and an invite to the full training camp.

It didn't come as a surprise when Samis was relegated to the minors to begin his life as a professional hockey player. In this era, it was unusual for a rookie, especially a defenceman looking for work on a Stanley Cup winning team, to make the jump from junior to the NHL.

The Leafs sent Samis to their farm team in Pittsburgh, where he was coached by former Leaf Bob Davidson. Samis' progress with the Hornets was charted by The Hockey News in an article published on February 18, 1948. "Throughout the season he has played a rough aggressive game and no one is too big for him."

In his first pro campaign, Samis participated in 68 games, and recorded 14-points on 4 goals and 10 assists.

Once again, the statistic more indicative of his performance, was the 181 penalty minutes Samis amassed.  This figure was tops in the American Hockey League.

When the Leafs opened the 1948 playoffs on March 24, 1948, Smythe and Hap Day (Leafs' coach), made certain Samis was on Toronto's playoff eligible list. An extra-body, in particular on the blueline, was an asset should injuries occur to the regular defenceman.

Samis saw action in games two and four of Toronto's semi-final series against the Boston Bruins. Then, when rearguard, Gus Mortson, broke his leg in game one of the Stanley Cup final, it wasn't a shock that Smythe and company turned to Samis to fill the void.

The comparisons between Mortson and Samis were expressed by Toronto Daily Star hockey writer Red Burnett. "Like Mortson, he is a quiet, unassuming chappie off the ice. Put a pair of skates on him and he becomes a belligerent warrior who neither asks nor gives a quarter." 

Burnett provided insight on life away from the rink for the 20 year old bachelor. "Samis spends his leisure moments reading a good book or listening to a fine collection of records."

In game two of the final, against Detroit, Samis obtained his only National Hockey League point, when he assisted on a first period goal by Max Bentley. The Leafs didn't lose a game in the final and Phil Samis became a Stanley Cup champion when Toronto defeated Detroit 7-2 at the Olympia on April 14.

If Samis had any hope his playoff performance translated into becoming a fixture on the Leafs, he would be sadly disappointed. In 1948-49, his hockey home remained in Pittsburgh. In his second season with the Hornets, Samis continued to employ a rough and tumble approach. But a telephone call for him to come to Toronto for the playoffs never materialized.

At this stage of his hockey life, Samis showed he could be just as tough to deal with off the ice.

In one of our many conversations, Samis told me how he confronted Conn Smythe over a clause in his 1949-50 contract. The issue at hand was a line that he forfeit any compensation when it came to television rights. The owners were fully aware the selling of games to local stations and national networks eventually would become a cash bonanza. Samis recognized this fact and refused to sign his contract.

After several sessions at training camp, Smythe summoned Samis to attend a meeting. He was fully aware why Smythe wanted to talk, and he prepared to dig-in-his-heels when it came to a confrontation.

And that's exactly what Samis did. He stood his ground and requested the Leafs add $500 to his salary in exchange for him putting pen-to-paper. Smythe countered that the explanation for the increase not be related to the TV rights, but for Samis to further his education. Samis shot this down, concerned that if he was dealt away, his new employer wouldn't honour the bump in his wages. 

The matter came to a head after an arbitration hearing with NHL President Clarence Campbell resulted in Samis being suspended. Campbell's involvement was a major concern for Samis. He knew the league's head-honcho was likely to side with the one that signed his pay check. Also, there were the ramifications of butting-heads with his boss. No one, especially his player's, crossed Smythe and didn't suffer the consequences.

He left the club, but later returned when Smythe agreed to trade him if he didn't make the Leafs.

Samis started the year in Pittsburgh, and his chance to prove he belonged in the NHL, came on November 20, 1948. The night before, Bill Barilko was injured in a game against the Detroit Red Wings at the Gardens, and the Leafs called up Samis for the away contest in Detroit. "Although he did not play as well as hoped against Detroit, Samis was by no means the worst Toronto defenceman," not quite a ringing endorsement from a witness to the game.

Phil Samis made his final appearance in a Leaf uniform on November 23, at Boston Garden.

Following the tilt in Boston, Samis was returned to the Pittsburgh Hornets, where he finished the season.

On April 6, 1950, Samis was shipped to Cleveland of the American Hockey League as part of a transaction to finalize a trade that sent goalie Al Rollins to Toronto on November 29, 1949.

What burned Samis about this development was the fact Smythe didn't live up to their original agreement. It was his understanding that Smythe accepted to send him to another NHL team, not to an AHL team. On top of this, Samis never received one-penny of the $500.

The highlight of Samis' two seasons with the Cleveland Barons came on April 22, 1951. In game seven of the Calder Cup final, he scored the opening goal early in the first period. On the play, Samis found open ice up the middle and took a long pass, his shot beat Pittsburgh goalie Gil Mayer. With Cleveland netminder Johnny Bower keeping the Hornets at-bay, Samis and his teammates won the deciding game 3-1, and were crowned AHL champs.

He made an important adjustment to his game with the Barons. While he continued his robust manner, Samis, under coach Bun Cook, played a smarter game when it came to penalties. "I'm doing it according to the rule book these days and you know referees are pretty good guys when you live by the rules." 

Beyond hockey, Samis looked to the time when his gear was packed away for good. In Pittsburgh, he continued his education by taking summer courses at Duquesne University; in Cleveland, Samis enrolled as a pre-dental student at Western Reserve University. Upon his return to Canada, he settled in Montreal, and successfully graduated with a degree in dentistry from McGill University.

He established a thriving practice in Montreal and along the way became an inventor. He created "Dentify," a small database chip that could be placed into a tooth. Although it was overshadowed by advances in DNA research, the invention was used in pets.

His farewell became official on September 23, 1952, when the Cleveland Barons announced that Samis was leaving the club to pursue his schooling and play hockey in Montreal.

On week later, Samis signed with the Montreal Royals of the Quebec Senior Hockey League. Dickie Moore's brother, Jimmy, signed with the Royals on the same day as Samis. Dickie Moore became a regular member with the Montreal Canadiens in 1954-55 and was elected to the Hockey Hall of Fame in 1974.

Samis' dedication to becoming a dentist, overtook any ambition he had to returning to the National Hockey League. When he left Cleveland, Jim Hendy, the Barons' general manager, revealed that Samis was highly regarded by the Boston Bruins, and there was no doubt, if Samis desired, he could've become a permanent member of the Bruins' defensive core.

Of interest, Samis dressed for one game with the Montreal Canadiens on October 11, 1952, at the Forum in Montreal. Hendy stated this was necessary due to waiver rules. The Habs defeated the Detroit Red Wings 2-1, as Billy Reay secured Montreal's victory with a third period goal.

Also, on December 20, 1952, Samis returned to Cleveland to play one game with the Barons against his former team, the Pittsburgh Hornets. His services were required due to the Barons missing two injured defenders.

After one season with the Royals in '52-'53 - 56 GP, 4 G, 11 A, 15 PTS - they informed the press in September 1953, that due to his heavy workload at McGill, Samis couldn't participate in the full schedule of games. 

*EDITED DEC. 30, 2020. 9:24PM 

SAMIS WITH HIS ST. MIKE'S BUZZERS TEAMMATE RED KELLY

SAMIS WITH HIS ST. MIKE'S MAJORS TEAMMATE JOHN McCORMACK

SAMIS WITH CLEVELAND TEAMMATE JOHNNY BOWER (SEATED)

SAMIS WAS FRANK MAHOVLICH'S DENTIST IN MONTREAL

MERRY CHRISTMAS!

THE BARTESVILLE DAILY - OKLAHOMA - DEC. 24, 1920

1920: THE FIRST NHL GAME PLAYED ON CHRISTMAS

During the first three years of play in the National Hockey League, which was formed in time for the 1917-18 season, a game wasn't scheduled on Christmas Day/Night until December 25, 1920.

In a far different NHL than we know now, the league was composed of only four teams - Toronto, Ottawa, Hamilton and Montreal - and the 1920-21 regular season didn't start until December 22.

On that date, all four clubs took to the ice with the Ottawa Senators hosting the Toronto St. Patricks, and the Montreal Canadiens on the road to face the Hamilton Tigers.

In Ottawa, the defending Stanley Cup champion Senators, hoped home ice would give them an edge over the visitors. But it would be the St. Patricks that got the early jump. An article in the Ottawa Citizen noted of Toronto's first tally: Harry Cameron broke away on one of his spectacular end to end rushes, completely fooling the Ottawa defence and slipping the puck into the nets [sic] behind Benedict.

In Hamilton, the newly minted Tigers, blanked the Montreal Canadiens with a 5-0. While Hamilton goalie, Howard Lockhart earned the shutout, it was Georges Vezina who garnered the praise for Montreal between the pipes. As The Gazette reported, "Vezina proved a saving grace, and saved his team from an ignominious defeat." 

The star for Hamilton was Joe Matte. He set up two-first period goals by Babe Dye, and scored Hamilton's fourth tally. The Gazette noted he "was the best player on the ice."

Next on the agenda for Montreal and Toronto was the Christmas Night game at Arena Gardens on Mutual Street in downtown Toronto.

To cut down on their travel, the Canadiens remained in Hamilton, Ontario, after the loss to the Tigers.  They used the time to practice prior to heading to Toronto.

On Christmas Eve, the St. Pats recalled forward Babe Dye from the Hamilton Tigers. As noted above, Dye scored two goals for Hamilton in their NHL debut. Toronto had lent Dye to Hamilton on December 4, 1920. At the end of the year, Dye led all goal scorers with 35 goals in 24 games.

During Christmas of 1920, Torontonians celebrated the holiday in the usual manner. 

Christmas morning was spent unwrapping gifts. A new Victorola for the entire family was "priced from $40 to $720.00 - sold on easy payments if desired." Trousers for dad went for $4.95. A satin frock for mom was reduced to $22.50. For the young hockey player in the family, C. C. M. offered blades made of "Special Automobile Steels," that added strength and reduced rusting.The department store, T. Eaton Co. Limited, sold a variety of dolls "from squawking and walking dolls."

A bounty of goodies were enjoyed at the Christmas feast. Smoked ham cost .44 cents per pound. Christmas plum pudding ranged from .45 cents to .70 cents per pound. For those with a sweet-tooth, "Fancy baskets, nicely packed with the very best grade of chocolates," could bought at Diana Sweets Shops.

After opening their presents and enjoying a big Christmas dinner, a crowd of about 4,000 hockey fans were ready to watch some hockey. 

For the locals, they couldn't have been thrilled with the start of their heroes.

Early in the second period, the St. Pats trailed the Canadiens 3-1, but Toronto wasn't about to disappoint their faithful in this holiday tilt.

As detailed in a newspaper account, "The St. Pats, led by Wilson ("Cully") and Randall (Ken), were not dismayed, and for the balance of the session they played rings around the fast fading Frenchmen, and scored three goals in succession."

Toronto and Montreal exchanged goals in the final frame, with Babe Dye scoring the game-winning goal against Georges Vezina. His goal gave Toronto a 5-3 lead. Bert Corbeau pulled the Canadiens one goal closer, but the equalizer was out of their reach, and St. Pats won by a score of 5-4. "The visitors made a determined effort to pull the game from the fire in the last ten minutes, but their condition (physical) was against them, and they wilted."

Thus, the grand tradition of watching/listening to NHL games on Christmas was born.

 

'TIS THE SEASON: 1947

 

'TIS THE SEASON: 1948

A HELPING HAND

Playing up-the-middle, Boston's Milt Schmidt, was a master at feeding the puck to his linemates, as was the case on December 20, 1950, when he earned four assists in a 4-4 tie with the New York Rangers.

"Veteran Milt Schmidt was the hero in Boston's 4-4 tie ... The 32-year-old Schmidt earned an assist in each of his team's goals," noted a newspaper story.

In 776 NHL regular season games, all with the Boston Bruins, Schmidt recorded 346 assists.

CHABOT: SHUTOUT 51

 

On this date in 1932, the Toronto Maple Leafs hosted the Detroit Red Wings at Maple Leaf Gardens. 

The star of the game for Toronto was their goalie, Lorne Chabot. He recorded his 51st shutout as the Leafs blanked Detroit by a 3-0 score. He stopped all 38 shots directed at the Leafs' net. It was his second shutout of the season, as he blanked the Montreal Canadiens 2-0 at the Gardens on November 24.

The Globe and Mail noted that, "Lorne Chabot (was) fully deserving (of) the triumph for the excellent goalkeeping performance that he gave."

Scoring for Toronto were Harold Cotton, Charlie Conacher and Bob Gracie. While the Leafs got three past John Roach in Detroit's goal, " The Red Wings had no luck at all against the showy display that Chabot was giving." 

Chabot was at his finest when he challenged Ebbie Goodfellow twice in the second period. 

"Goodfellow, on at least two occasions, was robbed by Chabot in this period, when the goalkeeper came out to meet him and turn his shot aside."

The Canadian Press game story observed that "Lorne Chabot performed in brilliant style in the Leaf nets to earn his second shutout of the season. Time and again he faced incoming snipers alone and successfully turned them back."

He finished the year with five shutouts, and when Chabot's career between the pipes came to a close in 1936-37, he recorded 73 shutouts in 411 regular season games with the New York Rangers, Toronto Maple Leafs, Montreal Canadiens, Chicago Black Hawks, Montreal Maroons, and New York Americans.

PRIDE AND PASSION

 

Christmas came early with the arrival of Kevin Shea's latest release, 'Voices in Blue and White: Pride and passion for the Toronto Maple Leafs.'

As Kevin noted on Facebook, "493 players and celebrities fill 344 pages with their passion for the Toronto Maple Leafs."

The one voice that struck me belonged to Canadian comic and actor, Mike Myers. He said, in part, "I love the Leafs. Every day I live and die with whether they win or lose ... All I know is that one day, the Toronto Maple Leafs will win the Stanley Cup and those who have remained faithful will be rewarded in some sort of Stanley Cup Heaven."

How many Leaf fans can relate to the voice of Mike Myers?

Self-published by Kevin, the first printing of the book quickly sold out, but it will be available in January 2021.

To order a copy, please contact Kevin directly: kevin_shea@rogers.com

My rating for this book: He shoots, he scores! Ten-out-of-ten hockey pucks.

*UPDATE BELOW: DEC. 16, 2020*

For a list of other new releases, here is a link to Lance Hornby's Annual Book Bonanza in the Toronto Sun...

2020 BOOK BONANZA

PIERRE PILOTE

 I took this photo (below) of the late Pierre Pilote (R) with Jim Gregory at the celebration of life for Tod Sloan in 2017. Pilote and Sloan were teammates in Chicago.

Pilote was born on this date in 1931.

While with Chicago, he was an All-Star defenceman, James Norris Trophy winner (NHL top defenceman), and Stanley Cup winner. He was inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame as an Honoured Member in 1975.

WHISTLE - BLOWER

 NEIL ARMSTRONG: 1932-2020

Former National Hockey League linesman, Neil Armstrong, passed away yesterday (Dec. 6, 2020) at the age of 87. In the obituary released by the family, it's noted that, "He left peacefully ... at Marshall Gowland Manor." The Manor is a nursing home in Sarnia, Ontario, where Armstrong was born in 1932.

Armstrong made his debut as an NHL linesman on November 16, 1957, in a contest at Maple Leaf Gardens. The Boston Bruins were in Toronto to face the Maple Leafs. And it turned out to be a tough assignment for Armstrong. When a stick-swinging duel erupted between Frank Mahovlich and Boston's Leo Labine, a brawl followed, with fisticuffs breaking out all over the ice.

Toronto's George Armstrong (no relation), while being treated for cuts to his knuckles, told reporters, "I took a terrific swing and I think I hit one of my own guys." Labine, who had scratches on his forehead, said, "I wish Mahovlich would cut his fingernails."

It was under these conditions that Armstrong cut-his-teeth in the National Hockey League.

One of the best things that can be said of an on-ice official, is that he went unnoticed while conducting his duties. For the most part, this applied to Armstrong. In fact, he didn't hesitate to go above and beyond the call of duty.

When linesman, Bill Clements, didn't make it to Toronto for a game at Maple Leaf Gardens in early January of 1965, it fell to Armstrong to patrol the lines by himself.

"I am a little tired," said Armstrong. "There was one-stretch, I think in the second period, when we went seven minutes without a whistle. I was wishing someone would do anything to get a whistle."

He was happy, the game didn't resemble his first appearance at Maple Leaf Gardens. "Fortunately, we only had one fight and it didn't develop into much."

In an incredible string of games, from November 1957 to October 1973, Armstrong didn't miss one assignment. In a contest between the St. Louis Blues and Detroit Red Wings on October 16, 1973, he broke the record of 1,313 games held by George Hayes. His reward was a cheque in the amount of $1,314.

It was time for Neil "Ironman" Armstrong to be noticed. Praise for his work was documented in a Canadian Press article published on the day of his accomplishment.

This comment came from then NHL referee-in-chief, Scotty Morrison: "Neil's dedication to his profession and pride in his personal performance has always been outstanding. In attaining an excellent rating in all levels of pre-season fitness tests, his example was a tremendous incentive to other members of the staff."

Clarence Campbell, the president of the NHL, weighed in on what Armstrong brought to the table: "He looks and acts like an athlete, and without being a muscle man, is tough and wiry enough to untangle the league's strongest wrestlers. He has an even temperament that seems to have a claiming effect on belligerent players - he commands their respect by the intelligent, alert and dignified manner in which he performs his duties."

As for Armstrong, he remembered his start and how he went about conducting his job: "I realized I wasn't going to make it as a player, so when I was offered a chance to be a linesman in the minor hockey league, I jumped at it ... Each of us (two linesman) work together when a fight breaks out. The worst thing a linesman can do is to give an advantage to an opposing player by holding one player and letting his opponent hit him. We try to get in between the two players and hold them apart."

The NHL Officials Association website shows that when Armstrong retired in August 1978, he took part in 1,744 games. He appeared in ten All-Star Games.

On November 3, 1979, came news that Armstrong would return to the game as a scout for the Montreal Canadiens. He remained in the position for twenty years.

In a statement released by Gary Bettman, the NHL commissioner highlighted Armstrong's achievements, "... he totalled almost 2,000 regular season and Stanley Cup Playoff games and a remarkable 18 consecutive years in the Stanley Cup Final from 1960 through 1977 ... He brought integrity, passion and dedication to our game and his influence inspired new generations of officials long after he worked his last game in 1978."

Neil Armstrong was inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 1991. On their Twitter account, the HHOF noted: The Hockey Hall of Fame is saddened to learn of the passing of Honoured Member Neil Armstrong. We offer our condolences to his family and friends.

Hockey is a family affair as Armstrong's son, Doug, is the general manager of the St. Louis Blues.

JEAN BELIVEAU

HIS FIRST GAME AS A HAB

 On this date in 2014, the hockey world mourned the passing of Montreal Canadiens' icon, Jean Beliveau.

He played in his first National Hockey League game on December 16, 1950, against the New York Rangers at the Forum in Montreal.

Beliveau played on a line with Rocket Richard and Normie Dassault. The Gazette noted that, "Jean Beliveau ... played smart hockey all the way and gave the line new life. He combined well with the Rocket  and the pair were a constant threat."

The Rocket (8) and Beliveau (9) registered 17 of the 31 Montreal shots on goal against Rangers' goalie, Chuck Rayner. The game ended in a 1-1 draw.

FRED SASAKAMOOSE

HIS TIME WITH THE BLACK HAWKS  

Fred Sasakamoose, one of the first Indigenous players in the National Hockey League, passed away on Tuesday afternoon at the age of 86. The news of his death came in an emotional Facebook video from his son, Neil. Tears filled his eyes as he spoke lovingly about his father. The cause of death was revealed as COVID-19. 

He was raised in Ahtahkakoop Cree Nation in Saskatchewan (Big River First Nation). His dream as a boy was to play hockey, and as paNOW.com reported, "His first pair of skates were his moccasins with a bob skate blade strapped on underneath, and five pairs of socks to keep his feet from freezing."

Sasakamoose played his junior hockey in the Western Canada Hockey League with the Moose Jaw Canucks. In his first three seasons, Sasakamoose scored 44 goals for Moose Jaw.

Prior to entering his fourth year with the Canucks, Sasakamoose attended the Chicago Black Hawks fall training camp in Pembroke, Ontario. The camp opened on September 8, 1953, and was designed for Chicago coach, Sid Abel, to size up the prospects in the Hawks' system.

In a clash of the East Juniors vs. West Juniors on September 12, Sasakamoose and his teammates defeated the East 5-3. He scored one goal and was selected "as the first all-star in the game."

Despite his impressive performance, Sasakamoose was unable to earn a roster spot with Chicago. He returned to Moose Jaw and began his final year of junior with the Canucks.

When the Hawks stumbled out of the starting gate with only three wins in their first 20 games, they summoned Sasakamoose from Moose Jaw. On November 19, Sid Abel announced that his rookie would play between wingers George Gee and Bill Mosienko.

At the age of 19, Sasakamoose made his NHL debut on November 20, 1953, when the Hawks hosted the Boston Bruins. Although Chicago was shutout by a score of 2-0, Sasakamoose made an impression. "Fred Sasakamoose, whose Cree Indian name in Chief Running Deer, made his debut in [sic] Black Hawk uniform and gave a spirited account of himself," reported the Chicago Tribune. "The chief displayed a pleasing willingness to rough it up, and got off two or three good shots.

At first, it was expected Sasakamoose would remain in Chicago for the customary three game try-out, but after a 5-1 loss to the Toronto Maple Leafs at Chicago Stadium, the Hawks decided to return him back to the Canucks.

Back in junior hockey, Sasakamoose reflected on his experience in Chicago. "They play it rugged up there - especially those big defensemen - the goalies play the angles. Ted Kennedy is one of the best players I faced - Chicago sure is a big, windy city."

As Chicago continued to struggle, Sasakamoose got a second chance with the Hawks as they recalled him on February 25, 1954. Along with the promotion, the Hawks revealed that Sasakamoose would finish the season in Chicago.

Sasakamoose returned to the NHL on February 27, 1954, when the Hawks battled the Toronto Maple Leafs at Maple Leaf Gardens. This was a special contest for Sasakamoose, as each Saturday night, he would listen to Foster Hewitt call games from the gondola at the Gardens.

Following the game against Toronto, nine games remained in Chicago's regular season. And like his first stint with the Hawks, the club didn't enjoy much success on the ice. They only managed two victories and  when the final curtain fell, they set a new record for most losses in a season with a miserable 12-51-7 record. 

His last game in the National Hockey League was played on March 19 at home against the Boston Bruins.  Sasakamoose didn't dress for the Hawks season finale on the road in Boston two night's later.

In Sasakamoose's swan song on the 19th, the Hawks defeated the Bruins 7-0 at the Stadium. The scoring hero for Chicago was Pete Conacher. The Toronto native recorded his first and only three goal game in the NHL.

"I only scored one hat trick in the NHL and that was in the second last game of the season," Conacher told me this afternoon when I called him to talk about his former teammate, Fred Sasakamoose.

"It had to be great for him to be there," said Conacher of Sasakamoose's journey. "As bad as we were, to be in the National Hockey League, and playing in a rink like Chicago Stadium, it had to be a real thrill to take back home."

 In the short time he got to witness him play in the NHL, one skill Sasakamoose possessed stood out to Conacher. "He was a good skater," Conacher said of his ability to maneuver around the ice. 

Off the ice, Conacher observed that Sasakamoose "was a quiet guy and in awe of being in a big city like Chicago."

"I was shocked to read this morning what happened to him," Conacher said in a hushed tone.

On Twitter, the Chicago Blackhawks posted a statement: Today, we lost a luminary in the hockey world with the passing of Fred Sasakamoose. Fred inspired many across the sport and throughout North America after becoming one of the first Indigenous-born athletes to play in the National Hockey League when he played 11 games with the Blackhawks during the 1953-54 season. Fred's family spoke of his love for his culture, his people and his language. That lasting impact of his legacy will forever be celebrated and continue to bring people together for generations to come. To the entire Sasakamoose family that includes his wife, Loretta, four children and over 100 grandchildren and great-grandchildren, the Chicago Blackhawks organization extends our deepest condolences.

In 11 games with Chicago, Sasakamoose didn't register point and spent six-minutes in the penalty box. 

AN ORIGINAL PENGUIN

 KEN SCHINKEL: 1932-2020

Ken Schinkel, who passed away last week, began his National Hockey League career in 1959-60 with the New York Rangers. The previous season, he led all goal-scorers in the American Hockey League with the Springfield Indians. In 70 games with the Indians, he potted 43 goals and 42 assists for 85 points.

When the Boston Bruins held their home opener on October 10, 1959, Schinkel scored his first two goals in the big-show. Unfortunately for Schinkel and the Rangers, they lost to the Bruins by a score of 6-4.

Schinkel had a decent first year with New York as he scored 13 goals in 69 contests and accumulated 29 points. He finished a distant third in voting for the Calder Trophy, which is awarded to the NHL's top rookie. Chicago's Bill Hay was the winner and Detroit's Murray Oliver finished in second-place.

Prior to NHL expansion in 1967, Schinkel found himself bouncing between the NHL with New York and the AHL with Springfield and Baltimore. His best season in the AHL came in 1965-66 with the Baltimore Clippers when he registered 75 points - 30 goals & 45 assists - in 72 games.

With the Rangers, Schinkel was unable to repeat the success he experienced in his first season. But like many in the Original Six era, Schinkel got a second chance with the expansion from six to twelve NHL teams.

At the expansion draft, held in Montreal on June 6, 1967, the Pittsburgh Penguins drafted Schinkel and he will always be known as an original Penguin.

Early in his time with Pittsburgh, Schinkel showed, that given the right circumstances, he could stick in the NHL. The Penguins brought him onboard with the intention of him being a key element in their development. This time around, he wouldn't be hopping between the NHL and AHL. Unlike with the Rangers, he wasn't fighting for a roster spot, he was a regular front-liner with Pittsburgh.

"I knew there were guys I could beat out," Schinkel said of his experience in New York, and the fact he wasn't considered by the five other teams in the NHL.

His versatility and effectiveness was evident when Pittsburgh hosted the Chicago Black Hawks on October 21, 1967. The Hawks were explosive on offence and were led by Bobby Hull and Stan Mikita. In an attempt to curtail Hull from going on a rampage, Pittsburgh coach, Red Sullivan, gave Schinkel the assignment of shadowing Hull.   

In what appeared to be just another game on the NHL schedule, it turned out to be a historic contest. And Ken Schinkel was in the thick of the action. Not only did he keep in step with Hull, he dominated the game and scored three goals in Pittsburgh's 4-2 victory. While Schinkel got the hat trick, Hull managed to score Chicago's second tally late in the third period. 

Billy Reay, the coach of the Hawks, couldn't help but comment on the Hull-Schinkel competition. "Schinkel played against him all night and outscored him 3-1. Give Schinkel all the credit."

For his part, Schinkel wasn't about to put himself on the same level as Hull. "He just wasn't at his game, that's all," Schinkel told reporters. "He's got enough against me."

Pittsburgh's win over Chicago, marked the first time one of the '67 expansion clubs defeated an Original Six team.

And Montreal coach, Toe Blake, took notice of Schinkel's work. Blake, in his capacity as coach of the 1968 All-Star Team, going up against the defending Stanley Cup champion Toronto Maple Leafs, selected Schinkel as part of his squad. He was the only Penguin chosen by Blake. "I never expected it," was Schinkel's response to being invited to participate in the NHL's showcase of their best talent. It was left to Sullivan to justify Schinkel's trip to Toronto to face the Leafs. He's "the best right wing in our division."

Over his six seasons in Pittsburgh, Schinkel became a reliable player and contributed 99 goals. His best year, goal-wise, was in 1969-70, when he connected for 20. In 1968-69, he hit a career high in points with 52 in 76 games.

Schinkel's career as an active NHL player ended in January 1973, when he replaced Red Kelly as bench boss of the Penguins. "It was a hard decision ... It took a lot of thinking in a very short time," Schinkel said of his instant transition from player to coach. At the age of 40, Schinkel realized his limitations on the ice and he wanted to remain in the game. "I love hockey and I want to be involved as closely as I can. The closest think to being on the ice is coaching."

His first stint as the Penguins' coach came to a close on February 6, 1974, when he was dismissed by general manager, Jack Button. After meeting with Button and learning his fate, Schinkel left with one question - why was he sacked? "He didn't say anything about that," Schinkel reflected.

Despite losing his head coaching job, Schinkel had the game in his blood and made the transition to scouting and player development, first with Pittsburgh, then with the Hartford Whalers. Of note, he returned behind the Penguins' bench as interim coach for a game against the Buffalo Sabres on January 17, 1976. Pittsburgh had ousted their coach, Mark Boileau, who took over when the club dumped Schinkel in 1974. Schinkel had the interim tagged removed prior to the 1976-77 season. He resigned his post after the Penguins lost in the preliminary round of the Stanley Cup playoffs. Schinkel stayed in the organization in his old job as director of player personnel.

Via their Twitter account, the Penguins paid tribute to Schinkel: We're deeply saddened by the passing of an original member of the Pittsburgh Penguins, Ken Schinkel. Schinkel played for the Penguins starting in 1967, but also served as head coach and head scout. Our thoughts are with his family during this difficult time.

The Pittsburgh Penguins Alumni Association also saluted Schinkel on their Twitter account: The Penguins Family lost a beloved member with the passing of Ken Schinkel last night at his home in Florida. "Schink"  was an original Penguin playing in Pittsburgh from 1967-68 to 1972-73, the team's first six seasons in the NHL. In 1973, he retired from play as the Penguins all-time leading scorer. He also served as the Penguins head coach, coaching a total of 203 games during the 1972-73 and 1976-77 seasons. After his coaching career, Ken served as the Penguins head scout for many years. He was an active member of the team's alumni and visited Pittsburgh for many Alumni Charity Golf Classics including the 2009 event honoring all-time coaches; and was honoured as an original Penguin during the Penguins' 50th anniversary celebration in 2016. We extend our most heartfelt condolences to Ken's family and friends.

Ken (Kenneth) Calvin Schinkel was born on November 27, 1932, in Jasen, Saskatchewan, Canada. He died on November 20, 2020, in Florida, USA. 

MADAME PRESIDENT

MARGUERITE NORRIS AND THE METRO PRYSTAI TRADE

The appointment of Kim Ng as the GM of the baseball Florida Marlins, made me think of Marguerite Norris. Back in 1952, after the passing of her father, Detroit Red Wings' owner, James Norris, she was named president of the club. She is pictured below with Wings' GM, Jack Adams.

To think that Miss Norris was just a figure-head when it came to making decisions on the hockey front, would be a huge mistake. For the most part, she let Adams conduct his duties with no interference, but that wasn't the case when Detroit forward, Metro Prystai, was traded to the Chicago Black Hawks on November 9, 1954. 

The transaction was carried out strictly by Norris and her brother, Bruce Norris. They were co-owners of the Red Wings. At the time, the Black Hawks were owned by their brother, James D. Norris, and held the distinction of being perennial cellar-dwellers in the NHL standings. Their continual failure to make the Stanley Cup playoffs and overall play, resulted in a dip in attendance and the impact empty seats had on the bottom-line. 

League-wide, the other NHL team's reached a consensus to assist Chicago by sending them players to help the on ice product. The decision for Detroit to participate in the aid package was solely made by Miss Norris and Bruce Norris. Also, it was their call to ship Metro Prystai to Chicago.

As Marshall Dann wrote in the Detroit Free Press, "Adams, who built up the Red Wings for 28 years and authored all previous trades, was told of this one only after it had been completed." 

By all accounts, Adams was against the deal and bit his tongue to avoid a rift with the Norris family.  

Speaking to the press, Norris revealed that consideration was also given to helping the Boston Bruins. Norris claimed the motion to supplement their rivals became a focus so "we might not have the responsibility of facing an eventual collapse of the league or drop to four teams."

At first, a "pool plan,"where the top team's provided a pool of players for Chicago and Boston to choose from, was discussed, but it didn't fly with the Red Wings. 

"We did not believe in the pool plan," Norris told Dann. "After five hours of arguing, my brother Bruce and I agreed to the compromise." 

The "compromise" involved Detroit sending Prystai to Chicago, Montreal sending Paul Masnick to Chicago, and the Toronto Maple Leafs sending Leo Boivin to Boston. These transactions all took place on November 9, 1954. Later, on December 10, 1954, the Canadiens increased their contribution when they sent Ed Litzenberger to the Black Hawks. Litzenberger went on to win the Calder Trophy as the NHL's top rookie in 1955. 

There was little doubt Metro Prystai was the most talented of this group. Prystai, who was traded to Detroit from Chicago in the summer of 1950, was popular with his Red Wings' teammates and helped them capture the Stanley Cup in 1952 and 1954. 

You didn't need to be a hockey wizard to know this was a bad trade for Detroit. The loss of Prystai weakened the on-ice product and it reeked of nepotism. It was perceived as the Norris family going overboard to rescue one of their own. Why Prystai instead of someone else? Why weren't the other's offering front-liners to Chicago and Boston?

As expected, there was speculation the player's on Detroit's roster were not happy with losing Prystai. It irked them that Detroit gave up so much and were losing a major contributor. In return for Prystai, the Wings received Lorne Davis. The fact Prystai learnt of his departure through the press, didn't help the situation. And Marshall Dann didn't hold back any punches when he unleashed the following in the Free Press:

The whole affair was handled in such a fashion that it seemingly couldn't help but shake the confidence of the players in an organization they built into hockey's most dominant club. Not to mention the irritation or downright disgust for Detroit fans.

In reaction to losing their teammate, the Red Wing players held a closed meeting in their locker room at the Olympia. Also, Bruce Norris addressed the team. "We are not breaking faith with you players or the Detroit fans," said Norris. "It was a decision based on the welfare of the league and that means the welfare of you players, too." 

The behind-the-scenes reaction in the Detroit Red Wings' dressing room to the trade is explored in my book on Bob Goldham, who was part of the 1950 deal that sent him and Prystai, and several other players, to the Motor City.

"The one thing about the early part of the schedule that stands out was a near player strike by the Red Wings," noted Goldham of the 1954-55 season. "There was a move to strengthen the Black Hawks and some of the stronger teams were contributing players. The Red Wings sent Metro Prystai and because he was so popular with his teammates, they truly threatened to strike. Adams somehow got word of this, and as he wasn't talking to our captain, Ted Lindsay, he called me into his office and promised he would get Metro back the next year if we would carry on. Needless to say, he was good for his word, but it did cause a lot of bad feelings with some of the player's and our management."

On October 24, 1955, Adams fulfilled his promise to Goldham and his mates, when he reacquired Metro Prystai from the Black Hawks in exchange to Ed Sandford. 

Adams' insistence that his club move to get Prystai back had a ripple affect within the organization. A newspaper report indicated, "Some insiders claim that when Jack Adams insisted on bringing back Metro Prystai to the Red Wings, he brought about the top-level shift which saw Prexy Marguerite Norris change jobs with Bruce, her brother."

That news came after Miss Norris resigned as president of the Detroit Red Wings on October 27, 1955. In the shuffle, Marguerite became vice president and joined the board of directors. Bruce Norris moved up the organizational chart and replaced his sister as president. 

It wouldn't be a stretch to say that Marguerite Norris lost a power struggle with Jack Adams. One can only imagine how hard Adams fought to get Prystai back in the fold. For her part, Norris took a stand, but probably realized that losing Adams' skill and talent would harm the team. 

Madame President took one for the team, while her brother, Bruce, came out unscathed. 

IN SUPPORT OF THE VETERANS

 

The above poster was designed and created by Phil Samis in recognition and support of those in the Veterans' Wing of Sunnybrook Hospital.

Samis came from Edmonton, Alberta to Toronto in 1944 to play hockey at St. Michael's College School. He became a Memorial Cup champion with the St. Mike's Majors in 1945. His junior career came to close in 1947 with the Oshawa Generals. During his time with St. Mike's and Oshawa, Samis had the benefit of being coached by two former members of Toronto's famed Kid Line, Joe Primeau and Charlie Conacher.

The bulk of his time in pro hockey was spent in the American Hockey League with the Pittsburgh Hornets and Cleveland Barons. In Cleveland, Samis added the Calder Cup to his trophy case in 1951. One of his teammates with the Barons was future Toronto Maple Leaf icon Johnny Bower. 

When Leafs' defenceman, Gus Mortson, suffered a broken leg in game one of the 1948 Stanley Cup final, the Leafs turned to Samis as his replacement. Like Mortson, Samis played a physical game in Pittsburgh and filled the void. When Toronto was crowned Stanley Cup champs in 1948, Samis got his name on hockey's most famous trophy.

With the recent passing of Howie Meeker, Samis, at the age of 92, is now the oldest living former Toronto Maple Leaf.

 

 I got to know Samis at the Original Six Alumni lunches held in Toronto. The group of former players make an annual trip to Sunnybrook, and when Samis made his first visit to the facility, he wasn't about to go empty handed. Packed away in a box, Samis brought copies of his poster to Sunnybrook and made certain there was one for any veteran that desired to take one. And the message on the poster, especially on Remembrance Day, is one that should be hollered from the rooftops. The red text on the colourful poster reads: ThankYou! Thank You! All Veterans! For Making Canada Safe For Us To Do The Things We Do Today.

Lest We Forget.

MORE THAN JUST A HOCKEY PLAYER

 HOWIE MEEKER: 1923-2020

When you look back at the professional life of Howie Meeker, who passed away over the weekend, three  occupations standout - hockey, politics and broadcasting.

After a successful run in junior hockey, that included a provincial OHA junior B championship with Stratford in 1942, Meeker paused his time on ice and turned his attention to the war effort. 

In 1943, at the age of 19, after being turned down by the air force, Meeker joined the army's Engineers' Corps and was shipped overseas. While participating in military maneuvers, he suffered serious injuries to both his legs. In a depressed state and confined to a bed, he worried about his future. "I didn't think I'd be playing hockey anymore," Meeker declared in his autobiography, Golly Gee It's Me. "I didn't think I'd be doing much of anything for a while."

Meeker spent two months in the infirmary, then returned to his duties. By December 1945, he was aboard the Queen Elizabeth and on his way home.

Upon his return, Meeker got his feet wet by playing in 7 regular season games and 5 playoff contests with the OHA Sr A Stratford Indians. His combined goal total was 14 in 12 outings. Any doubts of his ability to produce quickly vanished.

Never out of the vision of Conn Smythe and Hap Day, Meeker became their focus for the 1946-47 season. Smythe had to be impressed with young Meeker's commitment to his Country and the courage and bravery he displayed after his devastating leg wounds. On the hockey front, they were fully aware of what Meeker brought to the table. They had to be enticed that Meeker led all scorers in the 1941-42 OHA Jr B regular season with 29 goals in 13 games with Stratford. In the provincial playoffs, he led the way with 13 goals in 9 games.

On April 15, 1946, came the news that Howie Meeker signed his first professional contract with the Toronto Maple Leafs. 

Several obstacles were in the way before Meeker earned a spot on the Leafs' roster. First, he had to survive  Toronto's initial annual hockey school. The school for prospects and minor leaguers took place prior to training camp. If a player passed the test, he graduated to the main camp. Meeker, conquered both barriers and was in the line-up when the NHL season got underway. 

In the Leafs' home opener on October 19, 1946, Howie Meeker scored his first NHL goal in Toronto's 6-3 victory over the Detroit Red Wings. Meeker was the right-winger on a line centred by captain Ted Kennedy with Vic Lynn at left wing. The trio became known as the KML line. On Meeker's goal, Kennedy fed the puck to Lynn, who entered the Red Wings' zone with Meeker. The two linemates played hot-potato with  the puck before Meeker beat Detroit goalie Harry Lumley.

In what can only be described as a spectacular rookie campaign, Meeker scored 27 goals and added 18 helpers for 45 points. Included in his goal production were five goals against the Chicago Black Hawks in a 10-4 thumping at Maple Leaf Gardens on January 8, 1947. News reports revealed that defenceman Wally Stanowski was originally credited with Toronto's first and third goals. On both tallies, Stanowski shot the puck and conceded at the bench that Meeker may have directed the puck into the net. At the insistence of Hap Day, the goals were changed to Meeker by official scorer Bill Graham.

Stanowski, in a National Post article published on January 30, 2015, declared, "I scored two of them." It was his contention that Leafs' coach Hap Day worked the situation to help Meeker win the Calder Trophy as the NHL's top rookie and he was helpless to rectify the outcome concerning the goals.

When the announcement was made in May 1947, Meeker emerged as the Calder winner. He amassed 49 out of 54 points in the voting conducted by the media. The runner-up was Detroit's Jimmy Conacher with 13 points.

More important to Meeker was the fact Toronto captured the Stanley Cup in 1947, and it wouldn't be his last. He went on to have his name engraved on the Stanley Cup in 1948, 1949 and 1951.

Injuries started to impact Meeker's game in the 1948-49 season. During a practice on December 27, 1948, he suffered a broken right collarbone. In an attempt to avoid a stick check by Bill Ezinicki in a scrimmage, Meeker lost his balance and collided with the boards. As a result, he only skated in 30 games.

A back ailment, as a result of a check, and a sore knee, limited Meeker's action to 25 contests in 1952-53.  Along with battling injuries, Meeker's goal output decreased to 16 in the last three seasons, starting in 1950-51. 

As training camp got underway in the fall of 1953, it became obvious Meeker's back problem wasn't going away. "There were times last season when I could hardly stand up after a game," Meeker told reporters. "It's not as bad now, although it's aching from this morning's workout. I'll just have to wait and hope it gets no worse. I slept on a board for mattress all summer."

Unfortunately for Meeker, the 1953-54 season was his last as NHL performer with the Toronto Maple Leafs. The discomfort in his back prevented him from playing up to his standards. In 5 games, he scored one goal. 

While under contract with the Leafs, Meeker was approached to run by the Progressive Conservative Party in a federal by-election in Waterloo South on June 25, 1951. "I want to do a good job of representing the people of my riding if I make," said Meeker. 

When the votes were counted, Meeker came out the winner and began his journey as a professional hockey player and a Member of Canada's Parliament. His first speech in the House of Commons on October 29, 1951, dealt with "veterans' pensions and the cost of living."

His job as a politician ended when Meeker decided against running for re-election in 1953. His time in Ottawa contributed to his reduction in games played.

After hanging up his skates, Meeker coached the 1953-54 Stratford Indians, the team he played for after returning from his military service.

Up next for Meeker was a two-year stint as the coach of the Leafs' farm team in the American Hockey League, the Pittsburgh Hornets. His stay in Pittsburgh didn't get off to a smooth start, as when he arrived, he discovered his furniture was being held up at customs. 

But his first year in Pittsburgh turned out to be hugely successful. In the Calder Cup final, the Hornets downed the Buffalo Bisons 4 games to 2 in the best-of-seven showdown and were crowned AHL champions. "They played hard all season, and they deserved it," Meeker said of his warriors. "I'm proud to have coached them. And I hope we can do it again."

The next season, 1955-56, was another story. The Hornets lost in the first round of the playoffs to the Cleveland Barons. 

When King Clancy stepped down as coach of the Toronto Maple Leafs in the spring of 1956, Meeker was hired to replace him. "I still intend to be my own boss," Meeker said in a press conference. "Naturally, I will weigh the advice of Smythe, Day and Clancy. You can't argue with success. But the final decision on matters of policy will be up to me."

With Meeker behind the bench, the Leafs struggled on the ice and went 21-34-15 in the 70 game schedule. Their fifth-place finish left them out of the post-season.

The Leafs were delivered a blow when Hap Day walked away from his managerial duties on March 25, 1957. The explanation for his departure came in this comment from Conn Smythe: "Mr. Day says he's not available for next season, that's that." To many, it meant that Day lost a power struggle over control of the team.

Instead of keeping Meeker in the coaching position, the Leafs bumped him upstairs to the GMs office. His first move was to sign prized prospect Frank Mahovlich on May 13, 1957. But things turned sour prior to the start of the 1957-58 season. In an unexpected development, the Leafs let Meeker go and Stafford Smythe of the newly formed seven-man committee took charge. A statement revealed that both sides "agreed to disagree." 

In September 1958, Meeker moved to St. John's, Newfoundland to join the Guards Athletic Association. He handled all levels of their hockey program. In particular, the junior, senior and high school teams.

Meeker found his niche as a broadcaster when he joined Hockey Night in Canada as an analyst. For many, he will be remembered for the Howie Meeker Hockey School series that aired on the CBC. Meeker was at his boisterous best when he explained the proper techniques on how to play the game. His unique delivery and constant stream of his catch-phrase, "Golly Gee," made him immensely popular with a generation of hockey fans.

The Hockey Hall of Fame came calling in 1998 with the Foster Hewitt Award, as Meeker was inducted into the broadcaster's wing. 

His ability to analyze his own play and take steps to improve his game started early in his career with the Maple Leafs. He recorded the details in a little green book. "It shows what players I have the most trouble with, and I can plan new ways to deal with them," Meeker said in a 1949 interview. "You can be a student of mistakes as long as you do something about them."

In a way, this was training for his career as a professor of the game.

Howie Meeker was born on November 4, 1923, in Kitchener, Ontario. He died in Nanaimo General Hospital in British Columbia on November 8, 2020. Meeker was the oldest living former Toronto Maple Leaf.

JIM NEILSON 1940-2020

 

Jim Neilson, a former NHL defenceman, passed away on November 6, 2020.

Neilson began in National Hockey League career in 1962-63 with the New York Rangers. He made his debut on October 11, 1962, at Madison Square Garden. The Rangers fell to the Detroit Red Wings by a score of 2-1. Below is an action photo of Neilson in his maiden voyage.

In March 1968, Neilson was named New York's outstanding defensive player by the writer's that covered the Rangers. Also, his steady play resulted in him being named to the NHL's Second All-Star Team alongside Montreal's J. C. Tremblay.

The following year, 1968-69, Neilson put together his best season statistically. In 76 games he recorded 10 goals and 34 assists for 44 points. 

He spent 12 seasons with the Rangers prior to joining the California Golden Seals. Neilson was left unprotected by New York in the annual June Draft. Neilson's return to his first NHL home came on October 16, 1974, when the Seals visited the Garden. 

"It was kind of strange coming up the elevator and walking to this locker room," Neilson told the reporter's in the visitors' dressing room. "I hope I'd be missed," Neilson said reflecting on his departure from the Rangers. "If the Ranger defence is down, maybe people will figure I was a cog there for a number of years."

Neilson played on the West coast for two years.

His time in the NHL came to a close in 1978 after two seasons with the Cleveland Barons.

Writing in his Twitter account, Neilson's former teammate and Rangers' legend, Rod Gilbert, expressed his sadness. "It's with a heavy heart that the Rangers' family learned of the passing of my very special friend and long time teammate. Jim (Chief) Neilson made (an) immeasurable contribution to the Rangers and was admired by all his supporters. Rest In Peace friend and we pray for you."

MEEKER TURNS 97

 

Happy Birthday to the oldest living former Toronto Maple Leaf, Howie Meeker!

In 1943, at the age of 19, he joined the Army's Engineers' Corps and suffered serious injuries to both his legs while taking part in military maneuvers.

In his first season with the Toronto Maple Leafs, Meeker scored 27 goals and his performance earned him the 1947 Calder Trophy as the NHL's top rookie. Early on in Toronto, he played right wing on the KML line with Leafs' legend Ted Kennedy and Vic Lynn. In addition to his hockey duties, Meeker became a Member of Parliament (1951-1953) in the Canadian government. Meeker captured four Stanley Cups with Toronto.

After his career came to a close as an active player in 1954, he coached the senior Stratford Indians in the OHA for one term. Then, Meeker spent two years mentoring the AHL Pittsburgh Hornets. This was followed by one season, 1956-57, behind the Leafs' bench. His gig as the Maple Leafs' GM in 1957-58 was aborted before the regular season got underway.

Meeker turned to broadcasting and earned a spot in the broadcaster's wing of the Hockey Hall of Fame in 1998 for his work as an analyst on Hockey Night in Canada.

For many, a lasting memory is the Howie Meeker Hockey School series that aired on the CBC. Meeker was at his boisterous best explaining the techniques of how to play the game. His unique delivery and a constant stream of his catch-phrase, "Golly Gee," made him highly popular with a generation of hockey fans.

REMEMBERING FLEMING MacKELL

 

Remembering Fleming MacKell, who died on this date in 2015. He was born in Montreal, Quebec, on April 30, 1929.

Hockey was in MacKell's blood as his dad, Jack MacKell, was a Stanley Cup champion with the Ottawa Senators in 1920 and 1921.

Fleming MacKell was a product of the Toronto Maple Leafs organization and got his start with St. Mike's in the Ontario Hockey Association in 1946-47, he turned pro the following season with the AHL Pittsburgh Hornets. That same year, 1947-48, MacKell was called-up by the Toronto Maple Leafs for three games.

After several seasons of splitting his time between Toronto and Pittsburgh, MacKell left Pittsburgh behind him and became a regular with the Leafs.

In Toronto, MacKell matched his dad's Stanley Cup success by winning two Cups. His first came in 1949, when he was only 19 years-old. In 1951, MacKell captured his second Cup as Bill Barilko scored his Cup-winning goal in the overtime of game five against the Montreal Canadiens.

On January 9, 1952, MacKell was shipped to the Boston Bruins for defenceman Jimmy Morrison.

MacKell's best season, goal-wise, was in 1952-53 with Boston when he connected for 27 goals. His performance earned him a spot at center on the 1953 First All-Star Team. 

In the 1958 playoffs, MacKell led all point-getters with 19 points (5 goals-14 assists) in 12 games.

His last NHL season was in 1959-60 with the Boston Bruins.

The record shows Fleming MacKell played in 665 regular season games with Toronto and Boston. He scored 149 goals and added 220 assists for 369 points. He spent 562 minutes in the penalty box. In the playoffs, MacKell saw action in 80 contests. He scored 22 goals and 41 helpers for 63 points. His penalty minutes reached 75.

JUMBO JOE & MLG

 Here's an interesting tidbit on new Leaf forward Joe Thornton, he's the last active NHL player to score a goal at Maple Leaf Gardens.

On January 9, 1999, the Leafs defeated the Bruins 6-3 and Thornton scored a goal in the second period. A newspaper account (below) described the goal as coming "off a scramble in front." At the time, Boston was on a power play.

Also, on game day of the Leafs-Bruins tilt, the Maple Leafs obtained Bryan Berard from the New York Islanders in exchange for goalie Felix Potvin. 

BOB NEVIN: 1938-2020

On September 21, 2020, former NHL forward, Bob Nevin, passed away at the age of 82. According to his obituary in The Globe and Mail, the cause of death was "dementia and complications from cancer." He was born in South Porcupine, Ontario on March 18, 1938.

Hockey became a way of life for Nevin as his dad, Les, played amateur hockey in South Porcupine and Toronto. In 1942-43, the elder Nevin had a spectacular year in the Toronto Mercantile Hockey League. He led all scorers in the regular season with 29 goals in 24 games. His scoring rampage continued in the playoffs. In 13 contests, he netted 21 goals and posted 32 points, which were tops in the post-season. 

From his early boyhood, Nevin was destined to become a Toronto Maple Leaf. One of the oldest newspaper articles I located about Nevin was from May 19, 1951. Nevin was 13-years-old and playing for Shopsy's, which were sponsored by the Toronto Maple Leafs. He helped Shopsy's win the King Clancy peewee championship in the Toronto Hockey League.

Nevin continued his march up the Leafs' depth chart by joining the Marlboros bantams and midgets. In 1953-54, Nevin reached the junior "B" level with the Weston Dukes. The next season, Nevin got a taste of junior "A" hockey when the Toronto Marlboros called him up for three games.

He earned a roster spot with the Marlboros in 1955-56, and recorded 34 goals and 31 assists in 48 contest. In the playoffs, the Marlboros advanced to the Memorial Cup and went on to win Canada's junior hockey championship. While with the Marlboros, Nevin saw action in two contests ('56-'57 & '57-'58) with the Rochester Americans in the American Hockey League.

In his last term with the Marlboros in 1957-58, Nevin was summoned by the Toronto Maple Leafs and played four games with the Blue and White. On December 8, 1957, at Madison Square Garden, Nevin made his National Hockey League debut against the New York Rangers.

Writing in the Toronto Daily Star, reporter Red Burnett, noted, "Bob Nevin, Marlboro junior star, was rushed here by plane to take over for (Tod) Sloan who had picked up a charley-horse in Toronto. Instead he toiled for (Gary) Aldcorn on a line with Rudy Migay and (Dick) Duff."

On December 9, 1957, Nevin was back with the Marlboros and scored two goals and added one helper in a 4-1 victory over St. Mike's at Ted Reeve Arena. His performance led to this comment by his coach, Turk Broda, "Nevin is one of our take-charge guys. He made the difference tonight."

Nevin turned pro in 1958-59 and split his time between Chicoutimi in the QHL and the Rochester in the AHL. Also, he skated in two games with the Maple Leafs.

After another year of seasoning with Rochester in '59-'60, Nevin was ready to complete his journey, which started with Shopsy's, and led him to a permanent roster spot on right wing with the Toronto Maple Leafs in the big-show.

He had a productive rookie campaign with the Leafs in 1960-61. Nevin reached the benchmark plateau of 20 goals by popping in 21 and chipping in with 37 assists.

His first NHL goal came against the Montreal Canadiens at Maple Leaf Gardens on October 19, 1960. He scored the last goal in Toronto's 3-1 win over the Habs. Rex MacLeod of The Globe and Mail documented Nevin's initial tally: "Nevin scored the clincher when he rapped in (Frank) Mahovlich's rebound. Mahovlich had split the defence of Doug Harvey and Junior Langlois, but the shot was kicked out by (Jacques) Plante."

Nevin's first multi-goal game as a Leaf occurred on November 26, 1960, when he connected twice against Detroit goalie Hank Bassen.

At the end of the season, Nevin finished second to teammate Dave Keon in the voting for the Calder Trophy as the top rookie in the National Hockey League. Keon received 155 votes and Nevin 79 votes.

As rookie's neither Nevin or Keon looked forward to the initiation process that each first year pro in the NHL had to endure. He recalled what happened in an interview with this writer:

In their rookie season, neither player was looking forward to the initiation process. The veterans usually went looking for their prey on the train, as the new guys had no place to hide.

While Keon didn't escape, Nevin made a run for it.  He picks-up the story. "I walked down the train and there was another car next to ours and it was basically empty. So, I went to sleep in an upper berth." 

On this trip, the Leafs were returning to Toronto from a game in Chicago. By the time morning arrived and sensing it was safe to do so, Nevin headed back to his quarters. "No sooner did I get off the train and got to my berth, than the car I was sleeping in was pulled to the side and left there. I would have been sitting in Detroit in my pyjamas," said Nevin with a chuckle.

In his sophomore year, Nevin's goals dropped to 15, but in game six of the Stanley Cup final on April 22, 1962,  he scored one the most important goals of the year.

As Johnny Bower noted in his autobiography: "Game 6 was back at Chicago Stadium and was scoreless until Bobby Hull tallied in the third period. It looked like we were headed back to Toronto for game 7, but Bob Nevin tied it."

The Leafs scored another goal and captured their first Stanly Cup since 1951, when Bill Barilko scored his famous Cup-winning goal in game 5 against Montreal.

In a previous post, I wrote about the dramatics surrounding game six:

Bobby Hull's goal at 8:56 in the third gave Chicago a one goal lead. Hull got control of the puck after Dick Duff mistakenly directed it in front of his own goal. At 10:27, Bob Nevin knotted the score at 1 to 1. As expected, the stakes were high as the clock ticked down. The next goal would be enormous  and an overtime atmosphere engulfed Chicago Stadium. 

At 14:14, as though scripted for a Hollywood production, the Leafs produced the go-ahead-tally. In the starring role was the character that let himself and his teammates down on the Chicago goal by Hull. Taking centre stage, positioned underneath the spotlight was one of the team's smallest players, who now stood ten-feet tall in his skates, Dick Duff. 

"I picked up Army's (George Armstrong) pass behind me whirled and shot. But I didn't know it went in. Glenn Hall had gone down to block and I couldn't see, but wow what a thrill when that light went on," commented Duff when describing his Cup-winning goal.

Come the spring of 1963, Nevin and his teammates were once again crowned Stanly Cup champions and were gunning for a three-peat in 1964.

A controversial trade between New York and Toronto on February 22, 1964, resulted in Nevin not being part of the Leafs' Cup run. The deal went down as follows: Dick Duff, Bob Nevin, Arnie Brown, Bill Collins to the Rangers for Andy Bathgate and Don McKenney.

Commenting on his new acquisition, Rangers coach Red Sullivan, said this about Nevin, "He's very good in the corners and as good as he's been, I know he can be better."

At the end of the season, Rangers' goalie Jacques Plante stated, "The morale of the team seemed to change for the better when Duff and Nevin started going for us."

The degree to which New York management held Nevin's leadership skills came on February 5, 1965. Immediately after a trade sent longtime Ranger Camille Henry to Chicago, Nevin was named team captain, an honour previously held by Henry.

While wearing the "C" on his jersey, Nevin was present when his club played their final game at the old Madison Square Garden on February 11, 1968. The Rangers brought back 62 alumni members and NHL stars like Rocket Richard to participate in goodbye skate.

A highlight for many the Rangers' faithful was seeing Frank Boucher, Bill Cook, Bun Cook and Ching Johnson back on the ice. All three played in New York's first game at MSG on November 16, 1926.

New York played their first contest at the new Garden on February 18, 1968. Nevin christened their new home by scoring the Rangers' first goal. The New York Times wrote, "Bob Nevin, the team captain, scored the first New York goal after snaring a face-off pass from Phil Goyette."

After coming to New York late in the 1964 campaign, Nevin went on to play seven full seasons in the Big Apple.

A trade on May 25, 1971, sent Nevin to the Minnesota North Stars. "We made the deal to strengthen our checking on the right side," said Minnesota's GM Wren Blair. "Nevin is a complete two-way player who can also serve on the power play and kill penalties."

Nevin joined the Los Angeles Kings in 1973-74 and had his best NHL season statically the following year when he put up 72 points in 80 games.

In 1976-77, Nevin jumped to the World Hockey Association and after 13 games with the Edmonton Oilers, he retired due to an injury.

On February 17, 2015, Nevin made a visit to the Ryerson Athletic Centre, which is located in the former Maple Leaf Gardens. Nevin was on hand to celebrate Heritage Week 2015. Although the surroundings were different from when he played at the Gardens, Nevin was once again the fan favourite at 60 Carlton Street.   

During the Q&A, most of the inquiries came from students, who got time off school to join in the fun. In addition to Bob, several other athletes, including Olympian Perdita Felicien, were peppered with great questions from the youngsters. And it seems no matter the generation, hockey remains to be a hot topic. It was amazing to listen to the wide range of questions that were directed to Bob, who last skated in the National Hockey League in 1976 with the Los Angeles Kings. Of all the athletes, Bob appeared to be the favourite with those picking up the microphone to ask a question or make a comment. The most repeated phrase was, "this question is for Bob."

The bottom line on Nevin's NHL career looks like this: 1,128 regular season games, 307 goals, 419 assists, 726 points; 84 playoff games, 16 goals, 18 assists, 34 points, two Stanley Cups.