Sports History

Born July 1, 1977, in Edmonton, Alberta, was Hockey Hall of Fame Right Wing Jarome Iginla. This legend was a four-time NHL All-Star, winner of the Messier Award, Ted Lindsay Pearson Award, King Clancy Memorial Trophy, Art Ross, and two-time winner of the Maurice Richard Award. Iginla scored 1300 points during his 22-year career that saw him on the rosters of the Calgary Flames, Pittsburgh Penguins, Boston Bruins, Colorado Avalanche, and Los Angeles Kings.

Born February 16, 1953, in Hanna, Alberta, was Hockey Hall of Fame Right Wing Lanny McDonald. This legend was a key player on the Calgary Flames' 1989 Stanley Cup championship team. He was a two-time All-Star and a four-time Lady Byng Memorial Trophy winner. Before becoming a Calgary skater, McDonald was on the roster of the Toronto Maple Leafs and the Colorado Avalanche.

Born July 3, 1970, in Helsinki, Finland was Hockey Hall of Fame Right Wing, Teemu Selänne. Teemu held the NHL rookie points record with 132 from the 1992-93 season. Selänne broke Mike Bossy's record of 53 goals by finishing the regular season with 76 goals for Winnipeg. He is also a six-time Olympian, with three bronze medals, and one silver. His NHL tenure included playing for the Winnipeg Jets and the Mighty Ducks of Anaheim. He also had a stint in Colorado with the Avalanche, and fought through some injury plagued seasons, but in 2007 he returned to the Ducks and helped them with the Stanley Cup.

Ray Bourque, the "Big Rig," carved his name into hockey history not just with a Norris Trophy record five times but with a career so prolific it spanned generations. He became a loyal cornerstone, drafted by the Boston Bruins in 1979, anchoring their defense for 21 seasons.
Bourque's offensive prowess redefined the role of a defenseman. His graceful skating, laser-like slapshot, and pinpoint passes rivaled many forwards. He held the NHL record for most points by a defenseman for years, scoring 410 goals and 1,169 assists, a testament to his offensive dynamism.

But Bourque was more than just points. He was a defensive stalwart, reading plays like a chess master and clearing pucks with the efficiency of a snowplow. His 1,570 games played stood as a testament to his durability and commitment.

Despite individual brilliance, the Stanley Cup remained elusive for Bourque. The Boston faithful yearned to see their captain hoist the coveted trophy, a dream that grew heavier with each passing playoff.

Finally, in 2000, fate intervened. Traded to the Colorado Avalanche, Bourque found himself on a championship-caliber team. In his final NHL game, at 40, he lifted the Stanley Cup, tears streaming down his face as a city's dream finally came true.

Bourque's legacy extends beyond trophies. He embodied sportsmanship and grace, winning the King Clancy Trophy for leadership and humanitarianism.

The Colorado Avalanche, known for their fast-paced style and passionate fanbase, boast a rich history that began north of the border. Here's a look at their journey:

-Roots in Quebec City: The Quebec Nordiques (1972-1995):

-The Avalanche story starts in 1972 with the founding of the Quebec Nordiques, one of the original franchises in the World Hockey Association (WHA).

-The Nordiques enjoyed some success in the WHA, even winning the Avco Cup championship in 1977, but ultimately joined the NHL after the WHA's merger in 1979.

-Despite boasting talented players like Michel Goulet and Joe Sakic, the Nordiques struggled to find consistent playoff success in Quebec City.

-Financial difficulties and a lack of a modern arena ultimately led to their relocation.

-A New Era Dawns in Denver: The Birth of the Avalanche (1995-Present):

-In 1995, the Nordiques were sold and relocated to Denver, Colorado, becoming the Colorado Avalanche. The move brought a fresh start and a state-of-the-art arena, the Pepsi Center (now Ball Arena).

-Under the leadership of coach Marc Crawford and star players like Joe Sakic, Patrick Roy, and Peter Forsberg, the Avalanche quickly established themselves as a force to be reckoned with.

-Dominant Dynasty and Stanley Cup Victories (1996-2001):

-The Avalanche's impact was immediate. In their first season in Denver, they captured the Pacific Division title and went on to sweep the Florida Panthers in the Stanley Cup Finals, becoming the first relocated team to win the championship in their inaugural season.

-Led by the "Legion of Doom" line of Sakic, Forsberg, and Claude Lemieux, the Avalanche continued their dominance. They captured another Stanley Cup title in 2001, defeating the New Jersey Devils in a thrilling seven-game series.

-A Period of Transition and Renewed Success (2001-Present):

-The departure of key players like Roy and Forsberg marked a period of transition for the Avalanche. Despite flashes of brilliance, including reaching the Stanley Cup Finals in 2003, consistent success proved elusive.

-The team drafted future stars like Gabriel Landeskog and Nathan MacKinnon, ushering in a new era of Avalanche hockey.

In 2022, the Avalanche returned to the pinnacle, defeating the Tampa Bay Lightning to claim their third Stanley Cup championship.

Mats Sundin wasn't just a hockey player; he was a force of nature on the ice. With his imposing 6'7" frame, graceful skating, and lethal wrist shot, he carved his name in the history books as one of the most dominant and beloved players of his generation. His 18-year career, primarily with the Toronto Maple Leafs, was a masterclass in power, finesse, and leadership, leaving an indelible mark on the sport.

From Sweden to the NHL: A Star is Born (1989-1994):

Sundin's journey began in Sweden, where his exceptional talent caught the eye of the Quebec Nordiques, who drafted him first overall in 1989. After a brief stint with the IHL's Milwaukee Admirals, he joined the Nordiques in 1991, showcasing his offensive prowess with consistent 40-goal seasons. When the Nordiques relocated to Denver and became the Colorado Avalanche, Sundin remained a key contributor, even reaching the Stanley Cup Finals in 1995.

Toronto's Captain and Icon (1994-2009):

In 1994, Sundin's career took a defining turn when he was traded to the Toronto Maple Leafs. The city, yearning for a savior, embraced him with open arms. He quickly became the face of the franchise, earning the nickname "Sundinmania" for his electrifying play and dedication. Though playoff success remained elusive, he led the team in scoring for 13 seasons, shattering numerous franchise records and earning the prestigious captaincy. His signature slap shot, his calm demeanor under pressure, and his fierce loyalty to the blue and white cemented his status as a Toronto legend.

Beyond the Numbers: A Leader and Legacy (1989-2009):

Sundin's impact went beyond statistics. He was a true leader, respected by teammates and opponents alike. He actively engaged with the community, earning him the King Clancy Memorial Trophy for humanitarian contributions. His commitment to excellence and sportsmanship inspired a generation of young players, including fellow Swede and Maple Leafs star, Peter Forsberg.

After Toronto: A Final Chapter (2009-2013):

In 2009, Sundin left Toronto for a brief stint with the Vancouver Canucks, where he gracefully accepted a reduced role, helping mentor younger players. He retired in 2013, leaving behind a legacy that transcended wins and losses.

Image credit: Håkan Dahlström (Hakandahlstrom on Wikipedia, dahlstroms on flickr)https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Mats_Sundin_1997.jpg

Born July 7, 1969, in Burnaby, British Columbia, was Canadian Hockey Hall of Fame Center, Joe Sakic. Sakic played for the NHL's Quebec Nordiques, and the Colorado Avalanche and was an executive (GM Colorado Avalanche). Joe's overall playing career lasted from 1988 to 2009. Sakic was named to play in 13 NHL All-Star Games and selected to the NHL First All-Star Team at center three times. Sakic led the Avalanche to Stanley Cup titles in 1996 and 2001, being named the most valuable player of the 1996 playoffs, and honored as the MVP of the NHL in 2001 by the hockey writers and his fellow players.

Paul Kariya carved a unique path in hockey history. Drafted high after a stellar junior career, he quickly established himself as a prolific scorer with exceptional finesse. However, his career was marred by injuries, particularly concussions, which ultimately forced his early retirement.

Early Brilliance and Olympic Gold (1990s):

Kariya's talent was evident from the start. He dominated junior hockey, leading Canada to a gold medal at the World Junior Championships in 1993. Drafted 4th overall by the Mighty Ducks of Anaheim, he became a cornerstone of the young franchise. Despite playing for an expansion team, Kariya showcased his scoring prowess, netting 50 goals in his second season, a feat rarely achieved by a sophomore player. Internationally, he added a gold medal at the 2002 Olympics to his collection.

A Dominant Force Overshadowed by Injuries (1990s-2000s):

Kariya's career was a constant battle against injuries. Concussions plagued him throughout his time with the Ducks, limiting his playing time and impacting his explosiveness. Despite these setbacks, he remained a dominant force when healthy. He established himself as a fan favorite in Anaheim, leading the team to their only Stanley Cup Finals appearance in 2003.

Later Career and Legacy (2000s-2011):

Seeking a fresh start, Kariya left Anaheim in 2004. He played for the Colorado Avalanche and the St. Louis Blues but continued to struggle with injuries. The player who once dazzled with his speed and skill was forced to adjust his style. He retired in 2011 after a concussion suffered during the 2010 season left him unable to continue playing.

A Hockey Hall of Famer Despite Challenges:

Despite his shortened career, Paul Kariya's talent and achievements are undeniable. He was inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 2017, a testament to his impact on the sport. His story is a reminder of the fragility of athletic careers and the perseverance required to excel at the highest level.

Born October 16, 1974, in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada, was Hockey Hall of Fame Left Wing, Paul Kariya. This legend was a five-time NHL All-Star and captured two Byng Awards during his brilliant NHL career. Kariya skated for the Mighty Ducks of Anaheim, the Colorado Avalanche, the Nashville Predators, and the St. Louis Blues during his 15-year career, where he tallied 402 goals and 587 assists.

Born September 15, 1958, in Windsor, Ontario, was legendary NHL player and Coach Joel Quenneville. "Coach Q" is second in NHL coaching victories with 969. He took the Chicago Blackhawks to three Stanley Cup Finals in 6 years (2010-2015) and won the title in 2010 with the club. Quenneville has also served as the head coach of the St. Louis Blues from 1996 to 2004, the Colorado Avalanche from 2005 to 2008, and the Florida Panthers from 2019 to 2021.

Jari Kurri's name is forever linked to the Edmonton Oilers dynasty of the 1980s. However, simply calling him Wayne Gretzky's sidekick would be a disservice to his exceptional talent and impressive hockey career. Kurri, the "Finnish Flash," carved his path to greatness, becoming a vital cog in the Oilers' machine and earning his rightful place in the Hockey Hall of Fame.

Kurri's journey began in Finland, where he honed his skills and quickly rose through the ranks. Drafted by the Oilers in 1980, he joined a team brimming with young talent, including the already legendary Wayne Gretzky. Despite the presence of "The Great One," Kurri wasn't overshadowed. He possessed a lethal combination of speed, a powerful shot, and exceptional hockey IQ. His ability to anticipate Gretzky's passes made them a nearly unstoppable force on the ice.

Their chemistry blossomed during the Oilers' dominant run in the 1980s. Kurri consistently notched over 70 points a season, often finishing second in league scoring behind Gretzky. He wasn't just a scorer, though. Kurri was a well-rounded player, contributing defensively and playing a key role on the power play. Together, Gretzky and Kurri rewrote the NHL record books, forming one of the most prolific duos in hockey history.

Kurri's success wasn't limited to the Oilers. He thrived internationally, leading Finland to their first-ever World Championship gold medal in 1995. He also captained his home country at the 1998 Winter Olympics, showcasing his leadership qualities on the world stage.

Following Gretzky's departure from Edmonton, Kurri continued to be a productive player, even leading the Oilers in scoring in the early 1990s. He eventually moved on to play in Europe before retiring in 2001.

Kurri's legacy transcends statistics and championships. He is an inspiration to young Finnish players, paving the way for a generation of talent from his home country. His calm demeanor and dedication to the game earned him respect from teammates, opponents, and fans alike.

Born May 18, 1960, in Helsinki, Finland, was Hockey Hall of Fame Right Wing Jari Kurri. This skating legend was on five Stanley Cup Champion teams. Kurri was a five-time NHL All-Star, the 1985 Byng winner, and appeared on the NHL 100th anniversary team. Kurry skated for the Edmonton Oilers, Los Angeles Kings, New York Rangers, Mighty Ducks of Anaheim, and Colorado Avalanche during his brilliant 17-year NHL career.