Sports History

Robert Nelson "Nels" Stewart, known affectionately as "Old Poison," wasn't your average hockey player. From 1925 to 1940, he carved his name onto the NHL record books with a lethal combination of raw talent, deceptive play, and unwavering grit.

His career saw him don the jerseys of the Montreal Maroons, Boston Bruins, and New York Americans, leaving a trail of goals wherever he went. He led the league in scoring once, in 1926, and even boasted the NHL's fastest two-goal record (four seconds apart!) for decades.
But Stewart's legacy transcended mere statistics. He was a cerebral player, mastering the art of deception. His stickhandling was legendary, leaving defenders grasping at air as he wove through the ice like a phantom. Though not the hardest, his slap shot was pinpoint accurate, finding the net with uncanny precision.

He wasn't afraid to get rough, earning penalties with regularity. But even his temper served him well, fueling his intensity and drive. This duality earned him the nickname "Old Poison," a testament to his potent mix of skill and bite.

Stewart's crowning achievement came in 1937 when he surpassed Howie Morenz as the NHL's all-time leading scorer. This record stood for 15 years, a testament to his longevity and consistency. He even won the prestigious Hart Trophy twice, solidifying his status as one of the game's early greats.

While injuries and age eventually slowed him down, Stewart's impact on hockey's history is undeniable. He pioneered offensive creativity, was a relentless competitor, and was a legend loved for his unorthodox brilliance. So, the next time you see a skilled player weave through defenders and bury a well-placed shot, remember "Old Poison," who proved that finesse and fury could be a potent cocktail on the ice.