Legion of Doom & NHL Players with the Most Stanley Cups
Welcome to the THW Hockey History Substack newsletter, with all the best from our extensive archives.
In today’s edition, we have a few “Today in Hockey History” posts, revisiting the famed Legion of Doom line for the Philadelphia Flyers, players with the most Stanley Cups, the worst team in Toronto Maple Leafs history, and more.
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Today in Hockey History: Nov. 27
One of the greatest legends of the National Hockey League had a hat trick of milestones on this date. Also, there are some fond memories in Boston, while both coaches and players alike reached some significant personal accomplishments. There was even a record set for playing for the most teams in one career. So, let’s take our daily trip back in time to revisit all the best moments from this unique date.
Line of the Times: The Legion of Doom
Hide your women, children, and favorite hockey team. Call up Batman, Superman, and the rest of the Justice League because when the Legion of Doom rolls through town, there is little anyone can do to stop them.
Such was the reputation of one of the most feared and productive lines in the history of the NHL — the Legion of Doom. With John LeClair on the left wing, Eric Lindros at center, and Mikael Renberg on right wing, the group became known for their ferocious forechecking and the skill/power combination of each man.
Who Were the Best Full Right Goalies in NHL History?
“Silly sider” is a term we hear ascribed to right-shooting, right-catching, and often left-handed goalies. Like left-handed baseball pitchers, full right goalies supposedly play at an advantage over left-shooting skaters. While a shooter might instinctively snipe to a goaltender’s left, or glove side, at lower level play, they’re often surprised to find their shot deflected with a blocker or stick save. Retired NHL goaltender, Tomas Vokoun once said it was “a little bit easier” to stop a left-handed shot as right catcher.
So, who were the best left-handed goalies in NHL history? They’re a rare breed, but there are a few big names on the list.
Today in Hockey History: Nov. 26
If it weren’t for one of the events on Nov. 26, there wouldn’t even be a National Hockey League to write a daily history column about. In addition to this, some of the greatest players to ever strap on a pair of skates made headlines on this date. Some hit personal milestones, some began incredible streaks, and others said goodbye. So, let’s hop aboard the THW time machine to relive all these great memories.
10 NHL Players with the Most Stanley Cups
By Ryan Gagne
According to numbers obtained from NHL Records, there have been 1,090 players to win the Stanley Cup, with 467 players (42%) winning it more than once. Interestingly, the further we dig into the numbers, only 195 skaters have won the silver chalice more than twice, meaning that 17% of winners are members of one of the most exclusive clubs in league history.
Considering there isn’t an active NHL player with four Stanley Cup rings, it is a safe bet that the top spots on this list are in no danger of being challenged anytime soon. Unless the league goes through a significant restructuring, no one may ever achieve the feats accomplished by the stars of generations gone by.
Today in Hockey History: Nov. 25
Nov. 25 has been one heck of an eventful date in National Hockey League history. Two of the greatest goal-scorers to ever play the game had memorable hat tricks while numerous goaltenders stole the show. Also, fans and Detroit and Pittsburgh had plenty to cheer about, and a hero made his emotional return to the Big Apple.
2015-16 Maple Leafs: Celebrating the “Worst” Team in Franchise History
It seems like a lifetime ago, but it was only seven years since the Toronto Maple Leafs were one of the worst teams in the NHL. During the 2015-16 season, the Maple Leafs capped off a decade of mediocrity by finishing last in the league. That no longer is the case.
Over the past seven seasons, the present iteration of the Maple Leafs has set numerous franchise records. The 2015-16 team also set a record. It was one of the few Maple Leafs’ teams ever to finish last overall in the NHL since the league expanded beyond six teams in 1968.