09 December 2006

Joe Nieuwendyk

Did I mention I like the Calgary Flames? Joe Nieuwendyk has always been one of my favourite players. Of course, he was a Flame. Earlier this week, (6 December 2006) Nieuwendyk retired after 20 seasons of great hockey. He played for five teams in his great NHL career; Calgary Flames, Dallas Stars, New Jersey Devils, Toronto Maple Leafs, and Florida Panthers.

His number should be retired by the Flames, and maybe even the Stars, and he better make it into the Hockey Hall of Fame. Why?
  • Calder Trophy as Rookie of the year in 1988 with 51 goals, 41 assists...92 points. Also All-Rookie team.
  • In 1989, helped the Flames win their first (so far only) Stanley cup. Also scored 51 goals that season.
  • King Clancy Memorial Trophy in 1995.
  • Second Stanley Cup in 1999 with Dallas Stars. Also Won Conn Smythe Trophy as MVP of the Playoffs.
  • Won third Cup with New Jersey Devils in 2003. That is three Cups with three teams.
  • Represented Team Canada in the Olympics in 1998 and 2002. Winning a gold medal in 2002.
  • Retired with 564 goals, 562 assists, 1126 points in1257 games, with a career total +/- of plus-155 in regular season play. That puts him at 48th all time (tie with Mike Bossy).
  • Retired with 66G, 50A, 116 points in 158 playoff games, winning three Stanley Cups and one Conn Smythe Trophy
That is why!!!

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