Our mission to preserve the history of pro hockey through the sweater uniform numbers players wear is to objectively come up with a list of the greatest players at each number based on their career performance. This look is based on facts and statistics gathered as of 1/1/2022.
Let us start our journey on identifying the greatest number 11s in NHL/WHL history by looking at the players that wore the number that are in the Hockey Hall of Fame.
- Newsy Lalonde
- Harry Cameron
- Bill Quackenbush
- Gilbert Perreault
- Steve Shutt
- Joe Mullen
- Mike Gartner
- Craig Patrick
- Al MacInnis
- Mark Messier
- Brendan Shanahan
- Bill Hay
- Mark Recchi
Our next bit of recognition is of the players who have had the number retired by clubs that they played for along with the date of the number being officially retired. For the number 11 they are:
- Daniel Alfredsson Ottawa Senators December 29, 2016
- Mike Gartner Washington Capitals December 28, 2008
- Vic Hadfield New York Rangers December 2, 2018
- Mark Messier New York Rangers January 12, 2006
- Mark Messier Edmonton Oilers February 27, 2007
- Gilbert Perreault Buffalo Sabres October 17, 1990
- Brian Sutter St. Louis Blues December 30, 1988
The Moose, Mark Messier's Reign in the Frozen Frontier
Mark Messier wasn't just a hockey player; he was a force of nature on skates. Nicknamed "The Moose" for his imposing physique and unwavering determination, Messier carved his name in hockey history with a ferocity that mirrored his nickname. From Edmonton's dynasty to New York's redemption, his journey is a testament to leadership, resilience, and an insatiable hunger for victory.Born in Alberta, Canada, Messier's talent blossomed early. Drafted by the Edmonton Oilers, he found himself amidst a constellation of stars like Gretzky and Kurri. Yet, Messier carved his own path, becoming a two-way dynamo: dominating both offense with his powerful slap shot and leadership, and defense with his grit and relentless work ethic. He wasn't just a scorer; he was the heart and soul of the Oilers, the captain who led them to five Stanley Cups, his name forever etched in Edmonton's lore.
But Messier's story doesn't end there. In 1991, he embarked on a new chapter with the New York Rangers, a franchise burdened by decades of disappointment. Here, his leadership truly flourished. He lifted the team onto his broad shoulders, inspiring them with his relentless pursuit of excellence. After years of heartbreak, in 1994, Messier raised the Stanley Cup for the first time in 54 years, his iconic "guarantee" etched in New York legend.
Beyond trophies, Messier's impact transcended the ice. He was a vocal advocate for his players, a fighter for justice, and a role model for generations. He led by example, demanding the best from himself and his teammates, never settling for anything less than dominance.
Brendan Shanahan's Legacy in Ice Hockey
Brendan Shanahan's hockey career was a tapestry woven with dazzling goals, bone-crunching hits, and a controversial edge. From his early days as a prolific scorer to his transformative role as an NHL executive, Shanahan left an indelible mark on the game.Scoring Machine: Drafted third overall in 1987, Shanahan's offensive prowess was undeniable. He amassed over 650 goals in his 21-year career, ranking 13th all-time. His powerful slap shot and relentless work ethic made him a nightmare for goalies.
From Stony Mountain to the Hockey Hall of Fame ‣ Babe Pratt
Born in the frosty Canadian town of Stony Mountain, Manitoba, Walter Peter "Babe" Pratt was destined for the ice. His journey from rural Saskatchewan to the pinnacle of professional hockey is a testament to grit, talent, and unwavering determination.Pratt's career began in the rough-and-tumble world of senior leagues, where his versatility shone. He could seamlessly switch between defense and left wing, a rare skill that caught the eye of the New York Rangers in 1935. He quickly established himself as a force to be reckoned with, known for his booming slap shot and bone-crushing checks.
His impact was immediate. Pratt was instrumental in the Rangers' 1940 Stanley Cup victory, solidifying his reputation as a clutch performer. He later joined the Toronto Maple Leafs and was a key player in their 1945 championship run. His leadership and defensive prowess earned him the coveted Hart Memorial Trophy in 1944, a mark of individual excellence rarely achieved by defensemen.
However, Pratt's career wasn't without controversy. In 1946, he was suspended for betting on hockey games, a scandal that threatened to derail his legacy. His heartfelt apology and a promise to quit gambling led to his reinstatement, and he finished his career with the Boston Bruins, showcasing his unwavering passion for the game.
Beyond trophies and statistics, Babe Pratt's legacy lies in his influence on the game itself. He pioneered the two-way defenseman, excelling both offensively and defensively. His booming slapshot inspired a generation of blueliners to unleash their offensive power.
