You can’t have a discussion about ice hockey, without mentioning the Canadian men’s team. Over the years, it’s Canada that’s produced some of the greatest players ever, and the team has dominated international events. We’re going to take a look at 5 players who have had the most influence on the ice, and who can be classed as the best to don the Canadian kit.
1. Wayne Gretzky
Referred to as “The Great One”, he was born in 1961, and his skills on the ice were evident very early on. His 20 year career saw him lead pretty much every statistic in the NHL, as he held records for points, assists, and goals. However, while he led the NHL, it’s his dominance in the international game that really stands out.
It was Gretzky behind Canada’s gold medal win at the 2022 Winter Olympics. At the time, he was the executive director, and it was his strategy that ended the 50 year drought that Canada had experienced. Gretzky is seen as being the person behind revolutionising the sport in Canada. Fans who regularly bet on hockey know that a team that features anyone near his greatness is one that’s bound to win.
2. Maurice Richard
Usually known as just ‘The Rocket’, Richard is another figure who’s prominent in the history of Canadian ice hockey. Born in 1921, he became the first player to score 50 goals in 50 games. This quickly saw him establish a reputation as one of the most lethal goal scorers ever.
Richard’s career saw him winning an impressive 8 Stanley Cups with the Montreal Canadians. This run saw him being a major influence on a whole generation of up and coming players. His legacy extends beyond the ice, where he is remembered for bridging the tensions between Quebec and English-speaking Canada.
3. Gordie Howe
Howe was simply known as ‘Mr Hockey’ and was born back in 1928. He is another player who can’t be overlooked when considering the greatest of all time. His NHL career spanned an impressive 5 decades, and his style of play saw him go down in the history books. Those looking at odds on Canadian ice hockey knew all about the phrase that coined to do with Howe. The ‘Gordie Howe hat trick’ was all about games when he scored a goal, an assist, and a fight!
When it came to his international career, Howe was known for his consistency and leadership. He played a key role in Canada’s early success, and he also played a pivotal role in exhibition games. These exhibition games allowed Canada to demonstrate that the country dominated the ice.
4. Georges Vezina
It’s rare that goalies get the real credit that they deserve, but Vesina is the exception here. His contributions to Canadian hockey are nothing short of amazing. Born in 1887, he was recognised as being the backbone of the Montreal Canadian’s defence in the 20th century. He took his team to 2 Stanley Cup victories and, when playing under pressure, he earned the nickname ‘The Chicoutimi Cucumber’.
Vezina also had a major impact at an international level. He set the standard for what goalies should be, and what they should deliver. His outstanding goalkeeping is now commemorated by the Vezina Trophy which is awarded to the top NHL goalie each season. Almost a century down the line, Vezina is still seen as one of the greats.
5. Bobby Hull
Known as ‘The Golden Jet’, Hull is regarded as one of the most electrifying players of all time. Born in 1939, his game saw him demonstrate speed, power, and a deadly shot. He is still seen as one of the most feared forwards in the history of ice hockey.
Hull’s contributions took Canada to plenty of successes. Among his numerous victories, he assisted the team to 2 WHA Championships. He remains an influential figure and one that players of today look back on. His offensive prowess is yet to be matched and, just like the other players we have looked at, he is deserves to be seen as one of all time.
