Eric Lindros Trade Tree: Nordiques to Flyers & Best NHL Defensemen Ever
Also, some "Today in Hockey History", Red Wings' worst free agent signings of the past 20 years, looking back at the WHA, and more.
Welcome to the THW Hockey History Substack newsletter, with all the best from our extensive archives.
Today in Hockey History: July 8
This date, in 1995, proved to be a very eventful one with the National Hockey League’s annual Entry Draft and the usual dealings that go with it. Over the years, it has also seen some veteran players end up in new places and a successful coach getting his first job in the league. The THW time machine is fired up and ready to take us on our daily trip through the decades.
Eric Lindros Trade Tree: Nordiques to Flyers
When the name Eric Lindros is mentioned, most people remember the dynamic winger who tormented the league as a member of the Philadelphia Flyers. Some others will say his trade is possibly the only time in NHL history where a team has moved away from a star player and perhaps been better for it. Many people have revisited the Lindros trade, but very few have seen how it affected both organizations for the foreseeable future. This is a monster deal that changed the shape of the league forever. This is the Eric Lindros trade tree.
Red Wings’ Worst Free Agent Signings of the Past 20 Years
While there are always bright spots when it comes to free-agent signings, the flip side is the signings that do not pan out as well. Over the past 20 years, the Detroit Red Wings are no exception to this situation.
Today in Hockey History: July 7
July 7 is a significant date in National Hockey League history as a pair of signings made it easier for players from Europe to come over, forever changing the game. There were also a handful of coaching moves and the birth of a Hall of Famer beloved in the Mile High City. Finally, to put a bow on the day, a Stanley Cup was raised and a rare NHL Draft took place in Montreal. Let’s take our daily trip through time to relive all the best this date has had to offer.
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The Best NHL Defensemen Ever
The NHL has a long and storied existence. Legendary teams, lines and players serve as a reminder of days gone by while today’s players continue to forge the legacy left behind by the pioneers of our beloved game.
Today in Hockey History: July 6
Some of the best players of the 1990s were rewarded for their performances on this date. July 6 also saw several coaching changes, roster moves, and the birth of two players who left their mark on the game with brilliant National Hockey League careers.
The WHA – A Look Back at the Upstart Hockey League
As the National Hockey League continued to prosper in the early 1970s, there was a demand for more teams in more cities throughout much of the United States and Canada but at such a high risk, the league was hesitant to attempt to grow too quickly. After all, it took almost 41 years to branch out from the “Original Six” format and add six additional teams.