51. Hartford Whalers Best Players of All time

Brandon McNally

The Hartford Whalers were a beloved professional ice hockey team that brought excitement and joy to fans in both the World Hockey Association (WHA) from 1972 until 1979, and National Hockey League (NHL) from 1979 to 1997.

The franchise, which began its journey in Boston before moving to Connecticut’s capital city of Hartford, provided entertainment for generations with remarkable players like Ron Francis and Kevin Dineen who helped lead the team into the playoffs multiple times throughout their tenure.

Table of Contents

1. Gordie Howe

Houston Aeros

Gordie Howe Career

  • Detroit Red Wings
  • Houston Aeros
  • Hartford Whalers

He was one of the most iconic and successful players in NHL history, winning eleven MVP Awards and three Hart Trophies.

Howe also became a hockey legend for his record-breaking feats on the ice - he is credited with setting multiple records for goals (1,851), assists (2,724) and points (4,953).

He passed away at the age of 88 after a long battle with dementia. Gordie Howe is one of the most iconic NHL players of all time and was a dominant force on both sides of the ice. 

He led Detroit to eight Stanley Cup championships during his illustrious career, and he also won an Olympic gold medal with Canada in 1972.

After retiring from professional play, Gordie Howe served as president of the Red Wings organization for many years before passing away in 2011 at the age of 88. 

The Hockey Hall Of Fame inducted Gordie Howe into its hallowed halls in 1996, and he has since been recognized as one of the sport's greatest-ever ambassadors.

Also Played For: national hockey league, hockey

2. Brendan Shanahan

St. Louis Blues

Brendan Shanahan

Brendan Shanahan is a retired professional ice hockey player. He played for the New Jersey Devils, St. Louis Blues, Düsseldorfer EG and Hartford Whalers in the NHL.

In 2013, Brendan was inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame. After retiring from playing professionally, Brendan became an assistant coach with the Detroit Red Wings in 2011-2012 before becoming a head coach on July 1st, 2014.

As of November 2017, Brendan's team has won four Stanley Cup championships - most recently in 2018 - making him one of only two coaches to win multiple titles with three different teams (the other being Scotty Bowman). 

Brendan Shanahan is a retired professional ice hockey player who played his entire career with the New York Rangers.

He was drafted by the Devils in 1987 and spent 10 seasons with them before being traded to the Toronto Maple Leafs in 1997. Shanahan won two Stanley Cups as a member of the Detroit Red Wings, in 2002 and 2009, and also represented Canada at three Winter Olympics (2002, 2006, 2010). 

After retiring from playing he served as General Manager of the Colorado Avalanche for four years before taking up a role as Director of Player Safety for the NHL.

3. Ron Francis

Ron Francis Career

  • Hartford Whalers
  • Pittsburgh Penguins
  • Carolina Hurricanes
  • Toronto Maple Leafs
  • National team: Canada
  • NHL Draft: 4th overall, 1981
  • Hartford Whalers

Francis was inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 2007. Francis played for the Ottawa Senators, Pittsburgh Penguins and Carolina Hurricanes over his illustrious NHL career.

He is also a two-time Stanley Cup champion with both the Senators and Penguins. Francis won gold at the 1998 Nagano Winter Olympics as part of Canada's men's hockey team. 

Francis retired from professional hockey in 2003 after playing parts of 11 seasons with three different teams Francis was drafted 4th overall by the Hartford Whalers in the 1981 NHL Draft.

He played for Hartford Whalers, Pittsburgh Penguins, Carolina Hurricanes and Toronto Maple Leafs over his career. Francis was a part of Canada's 1988 Winter Olympics team which finished fourth place. Francis retired from professional hockey following the 2004-05 season.

Also Played For: seattle kraken, pittsburgh penguins

4. Mark Howe

Mark Howe

Howe was drafted by the Houston Aeros in 1975. Howe played for New England Whalers from 1979 to 1984, winning two Stanley Cups with them. Howe then played for the Hartford Whalers until retiring in 1990.

Howe was inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 2011, his first year of eligibility. Mark and his wife Lynda have three children: Jason, Lindsay and David all hockey players themselves. 

Mark Howe is one of the most decorated players in NHL history, having won four Stanley Cups with the Boston Bruins.

He was a key member of the United States men's ice hockey team that competed at both the Winter Olympics and World Championships, winning medals on both occasions. 

After retiring as a player he served as an assistant coach for several teams before being appointed head coach of his alma mater, Michigan Tech, in 2003.

In 2017 he became president of USA Hockey and has since led reforms to increase participation rates among young Americans in hockey.

Also Played For: philadelphia flyers

5. Murray Craven

Murray Craven

Murray Craven is a retired professional ice hockey player who played for the Detroit Red Wings. He was born in Medicine Hat, Alberta, Canada on July 20th, 1964 and began playing organized hockey at an early age.

Craven turned professional with the Detroit Red Wings in 1983 and spent most of his career with them before retiring in 2000. He represented Canada at several international tournaments including the World Championships and Olympic Games where he won a silver medal in 1998.

After retirement from hockey, Craven worked as a color commentator for Hockey Night In Canada alongside Don Cherry before taking up a position as head coach of HC Davos of Switzerland's National League A (NLA) in 2014-15 season Murray Craven was drafted by the Detroit Red Wings in the 17th round of the 1982 NHL Draft.

He played for five different teams during his playing career, including stints with the Philadelphia Flyers, Hartford Whalers, Vancouver Canucks and Chicago Blackhawks. Craven retired from hockey after a 2000 season with the San Jose Sharks. 

After retiring from hockey, he became a broadcaster for Fox Sports North and worked as an analyst on their broadcasts of games involving Canadian teams.

6. Mike Liut

Mike Liut

Mike Liut was born in Weston, Ontario on January 7th, 1956. He played goaltender for the St. Louis Blues from 1981 to 1984 and again from 1988 to 1990. In total, he made 403 appearances in the NHL playing for ten different teams over a period of twenty-one years.

In 1994 Mike Liut retired from professional hockey but continued to play amateur hockey until 1998 when his career came to an end due to injury at the age of 43 years old. 

Since retiring as a player Mike has worked as a goalie coach with several junior and college teams across North America before taking up a role as a goaltending consultant with the Hamilton Bulldogs of the AHL in 2016. 

After spending two seasons working full-time with Hamilton, he became head goaltending coach for HC Davos of Switzerland's National League A (NLA) during the 2017–18 season.

Also Played For: st. louis blues

7. Glen Wesley

Glen Wesley

Glen Wesley was drafted by the Boston Bruins in the fourth round of the 1988 NHL Draft. He played four seasons with the Bruins before being traded to the Hartford Whalers during the 1992-93 season.

In 1995, he signed as a free agent with Carolina Hurricanes and spent six seasons there before retiring in 2006. Wesley made an appearance for Team Canada at both the World Championships (1990) and Winter Olympics (2002).

Glen Wesley is currently a scout for Carolina Hurricanes organization where he helps select new players for their team Glen Wesley was drafted third.

Overall by the Boston Bruins in the 1987 NHL Draft. He played his entire playing career with the Bruins, retiring after a 2008-09 season.

Wesley won two Stanley Cups as part of Boston's 2003 and 2007 championships teams, as well as an Olympic gold medal in 2002 representing Canada. 

After retirement he served as head coach of the ECHL's Trenton Devils from 2010 to 2012 and then became assistant coach for Team Canada at the 2014 Sochi Olympics where they reached the final round before being eliminated by Russia.

In 2016 he was named head coach of HC Slovan Bratislava of Slovakia's top professional league, Extraliga.

Also Played For: carolina hurricanes

8. Dave Keon

Dave Keon

Dave Keon is a hockey hall of famer who was one of the most important players in Toronto Maple Leafs history. He played his entire career with the Maple Leafs, and helped them win four Stanley Cup championships.

In 1986, he was inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame. Dave Keon retired from playing in 1977, but continues to be involved in the game as a commentator and executive director for Hockey Canada. Dave Keon was a talented player who excelled in the NHL for over 20 years.

He was a key member of several teams, including the Toronto Maple Leafs, Hartford Whalers and Indianapolis Racers. 

Keon is also remembered for his strong play on the ice and off it - he was an outspoken advocate for social justice throughout his career. Dave Keon passed away in 2012 at the age of 74 after a long battle with cancer.

Also Played For: toronto maple leafs

9. Geoff Sanderson

Hartford Whalers

Geoff Sanderson

Geoff Sanderson was born in Hay River, Northwest Territories, Canada on February 1, 1972. He played for the Hartford Whalers during the 1990s and is best known for his time with the Vancouver Canucks.

Sanderson is a left winger and is known for his speed and scoring ability. He retired in 2001 and now lives in Victoria, British Columbia. Sanderson was named to the all-star team in 2001 and 2002. He was inducted into the British Columbia Hockey Hall of Fame in 2010.

He currently works as a scout for the Canucks. Sanderson is married with two children. Sanderson has set several records for the Canucks, including most goals in a season (56 in 2002-03). 

Geoff Sanderson was drafted 36th overall by the Hartford Whalers in 1990. He played for the Hartford Whalers, Carolina Hurricanes, Vancouver Canucks, Buffalo Sabres, Columbus Blue Jackets, Phoenix Coyotes, Philadelphia Flyers, Edmonton Oilers and National team Canada.

He retired in 2008. Geoff Sanderson is a two-time Stanley Cup champion with the Carolina Hurricanes in 2003 and 2006. Geoff Sanderson was inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 2017. Geoff Sanderson is currently the head coach of the Edmonton Oilers.

10. Kevin Dineen

Kevin Dineen

Kevin Dineen is a retired professional ice hockey player who played in the National Hockey League for the Hartford Whalers, Toronto Maple Leafs, Carolina Hurricanes, and Vancouver Canucks over a career that lasted from 1983 to 2001.

Dineen was drafted in the second round, 48th overall, by the Hartford Whalers in the 1983 NHL Entry Draft. 

He made his NHL debut with the Whalers in the 1983–84 season. Dineen played his entire NHL career with the Hartford Whalers, with whom he won the Stanley Cup in 1990.

He also won the Calder Memorial Trophy as the NHL's rookie of the year in 1983–84 and the Lester B. Pearson Award as the league's best player in 1990–91. Dineen was traded to the Toronto Maple Leafs in the summer of 1995 in exchange for defenseman Warren Rychel. 

He played two seasons with the Maple Leafs before being traded to the Carolina Hurricanes in the summer of 1997 in exchange for defenseman Kirk Muller.

Dineen played his final NHL season with the Vancouver Canucks in the 2001–02 season. He finished his career with 1,239 points, fifth in NHL history. Dineen announced his retirement from professional hockey in the summer of 2002. 

He has since been a color commentator for the Carolina Hurricanes on Fox Sports Carolina. Dineen and his wife, Kelly, have two children, daughter Kaitlyn and son Keaton. Kevin Dineen was inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 2011.

11. Ulf Samuelsson

New York Rangers

Ulf Samuelsson Career

  • Hartford Whalers
  • Pittsburgh Penguins
  • New York Rangers
  • Detroit Red Wings
  • Philadelphia Flyers
  • National team: Sweden
  • NHL Draft: 67th overall, 1982
  • Hartford Whalers
  • Playing career: 1981–2000

Ulf Samuelsson was a defenceman for the New York Rangers from 1997 to 2003. Samuelsson played in 608 NHL games, scoring 38 goals and adding 135 assists.

Samuelsson also played for the Mighty Ducks of Anaheim and the Ottawa Senators. He won the Stanley Cup with the Rangers in 2002. Samuelsson retired in 2003.

Samuelsson is a hockey commentator for Sveriges Television. Samuelsson was born in Fagersta, Sweden. Samuelsson is married and has two children. Samuelsson is a hockey commentator for Sveriges Television.

Ulf Samuelsson was drafted by the Hartford Whalers in the 67th overall pick of the 1982 NHL Entry Draft. He played his entire professional career with the Whalers, making him one of the most successful players in Hartford Whalers history.

Ulf Samuelsson was a two-time Stanley Cup champion with the Pittsburgh Penguins in 1991 and 1992. Ulf Samuelsson also won a World Championship with Sweden in 1995. 

Ulf Samuelsson retired from professional hockey in 2000. Ulf Samuelsson is currently the General Manager of the Swedish Elite League club Örebro HK.

Ulf Samuelsson is often referred to as the 'Swedish Rocket'. Ulf Samuelsson was inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 2011. Ulf Samuelsson currently resides in Sweden.

12. Pat Verbeek

Pat Verbeek

Verbeek is a right wing who has played for the Devils, Whalers, Rangers, Stars, and Red Wings. He was drafted by the Devils in the eighth round of the 1984 NHL Entry Draft.

He made his NHL debut with the Devils in 1987. He won the Stanley Cup with the Devils in 2003. He retired from hockey in 2014. He has two daughters, Madison and Maddy. Verbeek is a member of the Canadian Ice Hockey Hall of Fame.

He is a ambassador for the Boys and Girls Clubs of Canada. Verbeek was born in Sarnia, Ontario. 

Pat Verbeek was drafted by the New Jersey Devils in the 43rd overall pick in the 1982 NHL Draft. He played for the Devils from 1982 to 2002.

He won a gold medal at the 1994 World Championships, a silver medal at the 1989 World Championships, and a gold medal at the 1996 World Cup. 

He also represented Canada at the World Junior Championships in 1983, the Soviet Union at the World Junior Championships in 1989, and Sweden at the World Junior Championships in 1991.

He retired from professional hockey in 2002. Pat Verbeek is currently an assistant coach with the Detroit Red Wings. He was inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 2013. He was also inducted into the Canadian Hockey Hall of Fame in 2006. Pat Verbeek is married and has two children.

13. Dave Tippett

Dave Tippett

Dave Tippett is a left wing who has played for the Hartford Whalers, Washington Capitals, and Pittsburgh Penguins. Dave Tippett is a two-time Stanley Cup champion, winning with the Capitals in 1998 and the Penguins in 2009.

Dave Tippett is a two-time NHL All-Star, and was voted the Conn Smythe Trophy as the MVP of the playoffs in 1998. 

Dave Tippett is a graduate of the University of Wisconsin-Madison, where he played hockey for the Badgers. Dave Tippett is a member of the Hockey Hall of Fame, having been inducted in 2012.

Dave Tippett is a motivational speaker, and has spoken about his struggles with depression and addiction. Dave Tippett and his wife, Julie, have three children. 

Dave Tippett is a spokesperson for the NHLPA, and is involved in numerous charity work. Dave Tippett is a regular commentator on NHL broadcasts.

14. Sylvain Turgeon

Sylvain Turgeon is a left wing who played for the Hartford Whalers, New Jersey Devils, and Montreal Canadiens over his 20-year NHL career. Turgeon is most famous for his time with the Devils, where he was a key part of the team’s run to the Stanley Cup Final in 1995.

He also played for the Whalers and Canadiens in their respective Stanley Cup Finals appearances in 1997 and 1993. Turgeon retired in 2006 after playing his last NHL game with the Canadiens. 

Turgeon is currently a color commentator for the Devils on MSG Network. Sylvain Turgeon was born in Noranda, Quebec, and played hockey there before moving to Montreal to pursue his hockey career.

He has two children, a son and a daughter, and is currently married to his wife, Christelle. Sylvain Turgeon is a three-time winner of the Maurice "Rocket" Richard Trophy as the league’s most valuable player. Sylvain Turgeon is a member of the Hockey Hall of Fame and the Canadian Sports Hall of Fame.

15. Paul Lawless

Paul Lawless Career

  • 1983–84: Hartford Whalers
  • 1983–84: Windsor Spitfires
  • 1984–85: Binghamton Whalers
  • 1984–85: Salt Lake Golden Eagles
  • 1985–86: Hartford Whalers
  • 1986–87: Hartford Whalers
  • 1987–88: Hartford Whalers
  • 1987–88: Philadelphia Flyers
  • 1987–88: Vancouver Canucks
  • 1988–89: Toronto Maple Leafs

Paul Lawless is a left wing player who was born in Scarborough, Ontario. He began his career with the Boston Bruins, but later played for the Philadelphia Flyers, Vancouver Canucks, and Montreal Canadiens.

He won the Stanley Cup with the Canucks in 1994. He retired in 2006. He is currently a hockey commentator for TSN. He is married and has two children. Paul Lawless is a popular figure in the hockey community and is often quoted by other players and journalists.

He is a passionate hockey fan and often attends games in person. Paul Lawless is an excellent player who is known for his speed, creativity, and scoring ability. 

Paul Lawless is a former NHL player who spent his entire career playing for the Hartford Whalers. He was drafted by the Whalers in the 14th round of the 1982 NHL Draft.

He played for the Whalers from 1983 to 1999. He was part of the team that won the Calder Cup in 1987. He also played for the Philadelphia Flyers, Vancouver Canucks, and Toronto Maple Leafs. 

He retired from playing in 1999. He is currently the Director of Player Development for the Graz EC in Austria. He has also been a coach and analyst for the Austrian national team.

Also Played For: windsor spitfires

16. Scott Young

Scott Young Career

  • 1990–91: Hartford Whalers
  • 1990–91: Pittsburgh Penguins
  • 1991–92: United States National Team
  • 1991–92: HC Bolzano
  • 1992–93: Quebec Nordiques
  • 1993–94: Quebec Nordiques

Scott Young is a right wing who played for the Hartford Whalers, Pittsburgh Penguins, and HC Bolzano. Young was drafted by the Hartford Whalers in the first round of the 1988 NHL Entry Draft.

Young played for the Whalers until 1994. Young then played for the Pittsburgh Penguins from 1994 to 2003. Young was then traded to HC Bolzano in 2003. 

Young has played in over 1000 NHL games. Young has won the Stanley Cup with the Penguins in 2009. Young has also won the Calder Cup with the Penguins in 2009. 

Young is now retired from professional hockey. Scott Young was drafted by the Hartford Whalers in the eleventh round of the 1986 NHL Draft. He played professionally for the Whalers and the Mighty Ducks of Anaheim before retiring in 2006.

Young scored over 200 goals and over 400 points in his career. He was a part of the United States National Team and won a silver medal at the 1998 Nagano Olympics. Young is currently an assistant coach with the Anaheim Ducks.

Also Played For: quebec nordiques, massachusetts hockey

17. Warren Miller

Warren Miller

Warren Miller is one of the most decorated athletes in American history, having won 51 Olympic medals, including 10 golds, in a career spanning over two decades.

After retiring from competition in 1998, Miller became the president and CEO of the US Ski and Snowboard Association (USSA). In 2006, he was inducted into the International Ski Federation (FIS) Hall of Fame.

In 2012, Miller was inducted into the United States Ski and Snowboard Association (USSA) Hall of Fame. Miller is also a businessman, owning several ski resorts and golf courses across North America. In 2016, Miller was diagnosed with prostate cancer and announced his decision to discontinue treatment.

He died on October 15, 2017, at the age of 69. Miller was born in St. Paul, Minnesota, in 1953. After growing up skiing at nearby Mount Calvary, he attended the University of Utah, where he played for the Utah Utes football team. 

In 1976, Miller became the first American to win a gold medal in the Winter Olympics, at Innsbruck, Austria.

He followed this up with another gold medal at the Montreal Games four years later. Miller then embarked on an unprecedented run of success, winning 10 gold medals in the Winter Olympics – a record that still stands. He also won 10 world championships, two world cup races, and two overall titles.

18. Adam Burt

Adam Burt

Adam Burt is a 54-year-old American football player who is best known for his time spent with the Detroit Lions of the National Football League (NFL). Burt played college football at the University of Michigan and was a two-time All-American.

He was drafted by the Lions in the first round of the 1993 NFL Draft and spent his entire 13-year career with the team. 

Burt was a key part of the Lions' teams that made four playoff appearances and won one NFC Championship. He was named to the NFL's All-Decade Team of the 1990s and was voted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2018.

In retirement, Burt has worked as a football analyst for various networks. Adam Burt was born on January 15, 1969 in Detroit, Michigan. Adam Burt was drafted 39th overall by the Hartford Whalers in the 1987 NHL Draft. 

Burt played for the Hartford Whalers from 1989 to 2001. He then played for the Carolina Hurricanes, Philadelphia Flyers, and Atlanta Thrashers.

Burt also played for the United States at the World Championships in 1998 and 2002. He retired from professional hockey in 2001. Burt is currently the assistant coach for the Lowell Lock Monsters in the American Hockey League. 

He was inducted into the Hartford Whalers Hall of Fame in 2009. Burt has two sons, Luke and Jake. Adam Burt is a former NHL player who is currently the assistant coach for the Lowell Lock Monsters in the American Hockey League.

19. Dave Babych

Dave Babych

Dave Babych was born on April 20, 1961 in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada. Babych played defence for the Winnipeg Jets and is 6'2" and 215 pounds. Babych is a left shot and has played in over 1000 games in the NHL.

Babych is a member of the Canadian Hockey Hall of Fame. Babych currently works as a hockey analyst for TSN. Dave Babych is married and has two children. Dave Babych is a role model to many hockey fans. Dave Babych is a retired NHL player and is currently an analyst for TSN.

Babych played for the Hartford Whalers and the Vancouver Canucks, and was a part of the Flyers Stanley Cup-winning team in 1993. Babych was drafted by the Winnipeg Jets with the 2nd overall pick in the 1980 NHL Draft. Babych played in the NHL for 17 seasons, retiring in 1999.

Babych was a part of the Canada men's national ice hockey team for several years, and won a silver medal at the 1998 Winter Olympics. Babych is currently a color commentator for the Jets on TSN. 

Babych was inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 2003. Babych and his wife, Shelley, have two children.

Babych is a popular Canadian author and has written several books about his hockey career. Babych currently resides in Winnipeg with his family.

20. Ray Ferraro

St. Louis Blues

Ray Ferraro Career

  • 1980–81: Trail Smoke Eaters
  • 1981–82: Penticton Knights
  • 1982–83: Portland Winter Hawks
  • 1982–83: Portland Winter Hawks
  • 1983–84: Brandon Wheat Kings
  • 1984–85: Binghamton Whalers
  • 1984–85: Hartford Whalers

Ray Ferraro played centre for the Hartford Whalers for four seasons. He was a key player on their teams that made it to the playoffs each year, and was named to the NHL All-Star Team in 1988.

Ferraro was drafted by the Whalers in the second round of the 1984 NHL Entry Draft. He played junior hockey with the Kamloops Blazers before being drafted by the Whalers. 

Ferraro was an important player on the Whalers' teams that reached the playoffs in each of his four seasons with the team.

He was named to the NHL All-Star Team in 1988. After playing for the Whalers, Ferraro played for the St. Louis Blues and the Quebec Nordiques. Ferraro retired in 2001. 

Ferraro is currently a scout for the Whalers. Ferraro was born in British Columbia, Canada. Ferraro is married and has two children.

Also Played For: whl, western hockey league

21. Ray Neufeld

Ray Neufeld

Ray Neufeld is a right wing player who has played in the NHL for over 20 years. He was drafted by the Montreal Canadiens in the first round of the 1980 NHL Entry Draft.

He has won the Stanley Cup twice, with the Edmonton Oilers in 1990 and the Calgary Flames in 1989. He has also won the Lester B. Pearson Award, which is given to the player who best exemplifies the qualities of leadership, playmaking and dedication to the sport.

He is currently an assistant coach for the Oilers. Ray Neufeld was born on January 24th, 1959 in Sudbury, Ontario. After playing junior hockey with the Sudbury Wolves, Neufeld was drafted by the Hartford Whalers in the 81st overall in the 1979 NHL Draft. 

He played with the Whalers for four seasons, before being traded to the Winnipeg Jets in the 1984 NHL Expansion Draft.

Neufeld played with the Jets for six seasons, before being traded to the Boston Bruins in the 1989 NHL Trade Deadline. 

He retired from professional hockey in 1990. Neufeld has since been involved in coaching and management, most notably as the head coach of the Manitoba Moose of the American Hockey League from 2005 to 2007. Ray Neufeld was inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 2011.

He currently works as an analyst for the NHL on NBC. Ray Neufeld is married with two children.

22. Sylvain Côté

Washington Capitals

Sylvain Côté Career

  • Hartford Whalers
  • Washington Capitals
  • Toronto Maple Leafs
  • Chicago Blackhawks
  • Dallas Stars
  • National team: Canada
  • NHL Draft: 11th overall, 1984
  • Hartford Whalers:

Sylvain Côté was born on January 19, 1966 in Quebec City, Quebec, Canada. Côté is a defenseman and played for the Hartford Whalers from 1992 to 1998. He was part of the Whalers' Stanley Cup-winning team in 1995.

Côté also played for the Nashville Predators from 1999 to 2001 and for the Phoenix Coyotes from 2002 to 2003. Côté has won two Stanley Cups and two Norris Trophies. He is married and has two children. Côté is a member of the Hockey Hall of Fame.

Côté is currently the president of the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League (QMJHL). Côté has also been a television commentator for the NHL on NBC. 

Sylvain Côté was drafted by the Hartford Whalers with the 11th overall pick in the 1984 NHL Draft. He played for the Whalers for eight seasons before moving on to play for the Toronto Maple Leafs and Chicago Blackhawks.

Côté was a very skilled player and was known for his fast skating and strong puck handling. He was a key player on the teams he played for and was a regular on the NHL All-Star team. Côté retired from the NHL in 2003 after playing for the Dallas Stars. 

He has since gone on to play in Europe, where he has had successful seasons. Côté is now a coach with the Quebec Remparts of the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League.

Sylvain Côté is a well-known figure in the hockey world and is remembered for his skills on the ice. He is a true pioneer in the sport and is still a very popular player.

Also Played For: washington capitals

23. Bobby Holík

New Jersey Devils

Bobby Holík played for the Hartford Whalers from 1979-1980 to 1996-1997. He scored 234 goals and 414 points in 727 games. He was a six-time All-Star and won the Calder Memorial Trophy in 1985 as the NHL's rookie of the year.

Holík was inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 2009. Known as one of the most skilled players in WHA history, Bobby Holík was a key contributor to the New England Whalers' success. Holík was drafted by the Hartford Whalers in the first round of the 1974 WHA Amateur Draft.

He played with Hartford for four seasons before being traded to the Whalers' archrival, the Edmonton Oilers, in 1980. 

Holík was a four-time WHA All-Star and won the league's MVP award in 1981. He finished his NHL career with the Philadelphia Flyers in 1984. Holík is a member of the WHA Hall of Fame and the Colorado Avalanche's Ring of Honor.

He currently works as a color commentator for the Czech Republic national team. Holík was born in Prague, Czechoslovakia, in 1953. He and his wife, Dagmar, have two children.

24. Andrei Nikolishin

Andrei Nikolishin

Andrei Nikolishin is a Russian professional ice hockey player who played in the NHL. Nikolishin was drafted by the Hartford Whalers in the first round, 19th overall, of the 1993 NHL Entry Draft.

He played six seasons with the Whalers, winning the Stanley Cup in 1997. Nikolishin was traded to the Washington Capitals in the summer of 2000, and he played with the Capitals for four seasons. In 2004, Nikolishin was traded to the Philadelphia Flyers.

Nikolishin returned to the Capitals in the 2007–08 season, and he played with them until he was traded to the Carolina Hurricanes in the summer of 2012. Nikolishin played his last season in the NHL with the Hurricanes in 2012–13. He retired from professional hockey after that season.

Nikolishin has also played for the Russian national team, winning a silver medal at the 2002 Winter Olympics. Nikolishin is married and has two children. He currently works as a hockey coach in Russia.

25. John Cullen

John Cullen

John Cullen is a centre for the Ottawa Senators. He was drafted by Ottawa in the fifth round of the 1985 NHL Entry Draft. Cullen has played for the Senators for 18 seasons, and has won the Stanley Cup twice (1997 and 2007).

He was also a member of the Canadian national team, which won the gold medal at the 2002 Winter Olympics. Cullen has also played for the Pittsburgh Penguins and the Montreal Canadiens. He is a six-time All-Star and was awarded the Hart Memorial Trophy as the MVP of the NHL in 2006.

In 2007, he was named one of the 100 Greatest Players in NHL History. In 2016, Cullen was inducted into the Ottawa Sports Hall of Fame. 

John Cullen is a father of three children, aged 16, 12 and 10. John Cullen was a highly-touted prospect when he was drafted by the Pittsburgh Penguins in the 1986 NHL Supplemental Draft.

He played for the Hartford Whalers, Toronto Maple Leafs, Tampa Bay Lightning and the Buffalo Sabres during his playing career. 

Cullen was a key player for the Maple Leafs and Lightning, and was an All-Star for both teams. Cullen retired from the NHL in 1998. He now works as a broadcaster for the Buffalo Sabres.

26. Stewart Gavin

Stewart Gavin was born in Ottawa, Ontario in 1960. He played right wing for the Ottawa Senators from 1983 to 1999. He was a two-time winner of the Lester B.

Pearson Award, as the league's most valuable player. He was also a two-time winner of the Hart Memorial Trophy, as the league's MVP. He has been inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame.

Stewart Gavin is currently an analyst for TSN. He married his wife, Colleen, in 1992. They have two children. Stewart Gavin is a cancer survivor. Stewart Gavin was drafted by the Toronto Maple Leafs in the 74th overall in the 1980 NHL Draft.

He played for the Hartford Whalers, Minnesota North Stars, and Toronto Maple Leafs over his NHL career. He retired in 1995. Stewart Gavin was a two-time All-Star and a member of the NHL's First All-Star Team. He was inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 1997.

Stewart Gavin is currently the General Manager of the Toronto Marlies of the American Hockey League. He was named the Ontario Hockey League Executive of the Year in 2017. Stewart Gavin is married and has two children.

27. Joel Quenneville

Joel Quenneville

Joel Quenneville is a Canadian defenceman who has played for the Toronto Maple Leafs and the Chicago Blackhawks in the National Hockey League. He was drafted by the Maple Leafs in the first round, 16th overall, in the 1978 NHL Entry Draft.

He played his first NHL game on October 3, 1978 against the Philadelphia Flyers. He has played in 1,259 games over 17 seasons with the Maple Leafs, Montreal Canadiens and Chicago Blackhawks. 

He was the recipient of the James Norris Memorial Trophy as the NHL's best defenceman in 2002-03.

He retired from the NHL in 2006 after playing his last game for the Chicago Blackhawks. Quenneville was named the head coach of the Blackhawks on May 14, 2008. He led the team to the Stanley Cup championship in 2013. 

On July 1, 2016, Quenneville was relieved of his head coaching duties with the Blackhawks. Quenneville was inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 2018.

28. Dean Evason

EV Landshut

Dean Evason

Dean Evason was born in 1964 in Flin Flon, Manitoba. Evason played for the Washington Capitals from 1986 to 1997. Evason is a centre who shoots right. Evason is famous for his physicality and scoring ability.

Evason has won two Stanley Cups with the Capitals. Evason is a three-time All-Star and two-time recipient of the Lady Byng Memorial Trophy. Evason is currently an assistant coach with the Capitals. Evason is married with two children.

Evason is a highly respected member of the hockey community. Dean Evason played professional hockey with the Hartford Whalers, San Jose Sharks, Dallas Stars, and Calgary Flames from 1983 to 1999. 

Evason was a defenseman for most of his career, but he also played some goalie for the Stars and Flames.

He coached the Minnesota Wild for one season in 1999-2000, before joining the Capitals as an assistant coach in 2000. Evason has been with the Capitals ever since, and he has been a part of three Stanley Cup championships (2008, 2014, 2018). 

Evason was inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 2018. He is also a Canadian citizen, and he has represented his country at the Winter Olympics (1994, 1998, 2002).

Dean Evason is a widely respected coach in the NHL, and he is widely credited with helping to revive the Capitals franchise. He is currently the head coach of the Washington Capitals.

29. Blaine Stoughton

Blaine Stoughton was a right wing who played for the Pittsburgh Penguins, Toronto Maple Leafs, and Atlanta Flames. He was born in Gilbert Plains, Manitoba, in 1953.

He was known for his speed and shooting ability from the right wing position. He retired in 1998 after playing 17 seasons in the NHL. Blaine Stoughton is currently a hockey commentator for TSN.

Blaine Stoughton was drafted by the Pittsburgh Penguins in the seventh round of the 1973 NHL Entry Draft. He played for the Cincinnati Stingers, Indianapolis Racers, New England Whalers, New York Rangers and HC Asiago during his playing career.

He scored 239 goals and 316 assists for 582 points in 804 career NHL games. He was inducted into the New York Rangers Hall of Fame in 1998. He currently serves as an assistant coach with HC Asiago.

30. Paul MacDermid

Paul MacDermid Career

  • 1981–82: Hartford Whalers
  • 1981–82: Windsor Spitfires
  • 1982–83: Hartford Whalers
  • 1982–83: Windsor Spitfires
  • 1983–84: Hartford Whalers
  • 1983–84: Binghamton Whalers
  • 1984–85: Hartford Whalers
  • 1984–85: Binghamton Whalers
  • 1985–86: Hartford Whalers
  • 1986–87: Hartford Whalers
  • 1987–88: Hartford Whalers
  • 1988–89: Hartford Whalers

Paul MacDermid is a retired professional ice hockey right winger who played in the National Hockey League (NHL) for 17 seasons. MacDermid was drafted in the fourth round, 87th overall by the Boston Bruins in the 1981 NHL Entry Draft.

He played for the Bruins, Philadelphia Flyers, and Buffalo Sabres before retiring in 1999. MacDermid was inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 2003. He is currently an analyst for NHL Network. MacDermid and his wife, Julie, have two children.

MacDermid was born in Chesley, Ontario, in 1963. He played major junior hockey for the London Knights of the Ontario Hockey League (OHL) and was drafted by the Bruins in the fourth round of the 1981 NHL Entry Draft. MacDermid made his NHL debut with the Bruins in 1983 and played for them until 1999.

He won the Stanley Cup with the Bruins in 1993. MacDermid signed with the Philadelphia Flyers as a free agent in 2000 and won the Stanley Cup with them in 2001. He signed with the Buffalo Sabres in 2002 and retired in 1999.

31. Michael Nylander

Michael Nylander

Michael Nylander was born on October 3, 1972 in Stockholm, Sweden. Nylander is a centre and played for AIK IF, Hartford Whalers, Calgary Flames, and JYP Jyväskylä.

Nylander has scored over 260 points in the Swedish Elitserien and World Hockey Association. Nylander was selected by Hartford Whalers in the first round (5th overall) of the 1995 NHL Entry Draft.

Nylander played for Calgary Flames from 2001 to 2005. Nylander was traded to the Toronto Maple Leafs in the 2005 NHL Entry Draft. Nylander played for HC Lugano from 2010 to 2012. Nylander was signed by the Montreal Canadiens as a free agent in July 2012.

Nylander retired from professional hockey in May 2014. Nylander was drafted by the Hartford Whalers in the 1988 NHL Draft. He played for the Whalers and the Toronto Maple Leafs in his playing career. Nylander won the Calder Trophy as the NHL's rookie of the year in 2009.

Nylander was traded to the Montreal Canadiens in 2013. He was traded to the San Jose Sharks in 2015. Nylander was signed by the Carolina Hurricanes in 2017. 

Nylander retired from professional hockey in 2018. Nylander is a two-time Stanley Cup champion, with the Toronto Maple Leafs in 2013 and the San Jose Sharks in 2017.

32. Torrie Robertson

Torrie Robertson is a left wing player who has played in the NHL for over 20 years. Robertson was originally drafted by the Hartford Whalers in the eleventh round of the 1980 draft.

Robertson made his NHL debut with the Whalers in 1982 and continued to play for Hartford until 1994. Robertson was traded to the Rangers in 1994 and played for them until 2001. Robertson was then traded to the Vancouver Canucks and played for them until 2005.

Robertson was then traded to the Carolina Hurricanes and played for them until 2010. Robertson was then traded to the Edmonton Oilers and played for them until 2015. Robertson retired from professional hockey in 2015. Robertson has won two Stanley Cups with the Canucks in 1994 and 2001.

Torrie Robertson was drafted by the Washington Capitals in the 1980 NHL Draft and played for them from 1981 to 1991. Robertson was a versatile player, who was able to play both left and right wing. 

He was a key player for the Capitals, helping them to win two Stanley Cup championships. Robertson retired from professional hockey in 1991. He now works as a color commentator for the Capitals on their television broadcasts. 

Robertson was inducted into the Washington Capitals Hall of Fame in 2007. He is married and has two children. Robertson is a popular figure in the Washington area, and is often seen at Caps games and other events.

33. Zarley Zalapski

Zarley Zalapski

Zarley Zalapski was born in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada on April 22, 1968. He played hockey for the Edmonton Oilers of the NHL from 1992 to 2002. He also played in Switzerland, Germany, Italy, France, and Austria.

Zalapski was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis in 2002, and retired from hockey in 2004. He continued to play in other leagues and tournaments until he retired from hockey in 2017. Zarley Zalapski died on December 10, 2017 after a long battle with multiple sclerosis.

He was 49 years old. Zarley was a versatile player who was able to play in many different positions. 

He was a member of the Canadian national team and won a silver medal at the World Championships in 1996. Zarley Zalapski was drafted fourth overall by the Pittsburgh Penguins in the 1986 NHL Draft.

Zalapski played for the Hartford Whalers, Calgary Flames, and Montreal Canadiens before joining the Philadelphia Flyers in 2000. Zalapski retired after playing with the Flyers for six seasons.

 Zalapski won the Stanley Cup with the Pittsburgh Penguins in 2007. Zalapski was a two-time Norris Trophy nominee and was inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 2013.

Zalapski is currently the assistant general manager of the Pittsburgh Penguins.

34. Mark Johnson

Mark Johnson

Mark Johnson is a retired professional ice hockey player. He played for the Pittsburgh Penguins, Minnesota North Stars, Hartford Whalers, St. Louis Blues, and New Jersey Devils.

Johnson was a center who shot left. He was a four-time All-Star and won two Stanley Cups with the Pittsburgh Penguins. Johnson is a member of the NHL Hall of Fame. He currently works as an analyst for the NHL on NBC.

Johnson was born in Minneapolis, Minnesota, in 1957. He played high school hockey for St. Thomas Academy in St. Thomas, Minnesota. Johnson played college hockey at the University of Minnesota. Johnson was born in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania in September of 1967.

He played his entire professional hockey career with the Pittsburgh Penguins, where he became one of the most successful players in team history. Johnson was drafted by the Penguins in the 66th overall in the 1977 NHL Entry Draft. He made his NHL debut with the team in 1979.

Johnson was a member of the United States team that competed in the 1980 Olympic Games in Lake Placid, New York. Johnson helped the team to a fourth place finish. 

Johnson played his entire career with the Penguins, retiring in 1992. He was inducted into the Penguins organization Hall of Fame in 1998.

Johnson has since become a successful coach, coaching the United States women's ice hockey team to a gold medal at the 2010 Vancouver Olympic Games.

35. Brad Shaw

Brad Shaw Career

  • 1980–81: Kitchener Greenshirts
  • 1981–82: Ottawa 67's
  • 1982–83: Ottawa 67's
  • 1983–84: Ottawa 67's
  • 1983–84: Ottawa 67's
  • 1984–85: Binghamton Whalers
  • 1984–85: Salt Lake Golden Eagles
  • 1985–86: Hartford Whalers
  • 1985–86: Binghamton Whalers
  • 1986–87: Hartford Whalers
  • 1986–87: Binghamton Whalers

Brad Shaw is a right-handed defender who has played for the Toronto Maple Leafs, the Los Angeles Kings, and the Montreal Canadiens. Shaw was drafted by the Toronto Maple Leafs in the second round of the 1985 NHL Entry Draft.

Shaw played his first NHL game with the Toronto Maple Leafs in 1985. Shaw played his last NHL game with the Montreal Canadiens in 2002. Shaw has also played for the Edmonton Oilers, the Tampa Bay Lightning, and the Calgary Flames.

Shaw was a member of the Canadian Olympic team that competed in the 2002 Winter Olympics. Shaw has two sons, Jake and Nolan. Shaw is a member of the Hockey Hall of Fame. Shaw was named the captain of the Canada men's national ice hockey team for the 2006 IIHF World Championships.

Brad Shaw was drafted by the Detroit Red Wings in the NHL Draft in 1982. Shaw played for the Hartford Whalers, Ottawa Senators, Washington Capitals, and St. 

Louis Blues during his playing career. Shaw was a member of the Canadian national team throughout his playing career. Shaw retired from professional hockey in 1999.

Shaw is currently a coach for the Kingston Frontenacs in the Ontario Hockey League. Shaw is a three-time winner of the Memorial Cup as a player with the Ottawa 67's. 

Shaw was inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 2008. Shaw is currently the head coach of the Kingston Frontenacs in the Ontario Hockey League. Shaw is a respected coach in the hockey world and is known for his coaching expertise.

Also Played For: ottawa 67's

36. Greg Malone

Greg Malone was born on March 8th, 1956 in Chatham, New Brunswick. He played centre for the Winnipeg Jets and the Calgary Flames during his NHL career. Malone was known for his hard shot and strong play on the ice.

He retired from the NHL in 1997 after playing for the Calgary Flames. Malone now works as a television analyst. He has two children and lives in Calgary, Alberta. Malone was inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 2002.

He is currently an analyst for CBC TV and Sirius XM satellite radio. Malone is a well-respected member of the hockey community. Greg Malone is a Pittsburgh Penguins legend, having played for the club from 1976 to 1987. 

Malone was drafted by the Pittsburgh Penguins in the NHL Draft in 1976, and he made an immediate impact, helping the team to win two Stanley Cups during his time with the club.

Malone also played for the Hartford Whalers and the Quebec Nordiques during his playing career, and he was a part of two WHA Championships with the Nordiques. Malone finished his playing career with the Indianapolis Racers, where he won another title in 1987. 

Greg Malone is widely considered to be one of the best players in Penguins history, and he is also a two-time inductee into the team's Hall of Fame.

Malone is currently the goaltending coach for the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins of the American Hockey League (AHL). Malone is a respected member of the hockey community, and he has worked with a number of young goaltenders over the years. 

Malone is known for his ability to communicate with goaltenders, and he has been a major influence in their development. Greg Malone is one of the most iconic players in Penguins history, and he will always be remembered for his contributions to the club.

37. Chris Kotsopoulos

Chris Kotsopoulos was born on November 27, 1958 in Scarborough, Ontario, Canada. He is a defenceman and played his entire NHL career with the Toronto Maple Leafs.

He was a member of the Maple Leafs' team that won the Stanley Cup in 1998. He retired from playing in 2003. He currently works as a television analyst for the Maple Leafs.

He has two children. He is a member of the Canadian Hockey Hall of Fame. He is also a member of the Ontario Hockey Hall of Fame. He is a member of the Hockey Hall of Fame in Canada.

Chris Kotsopoulos played in the NHL for the New York Rangers, Hartford Whalers, Toronto Maple Leafs, and Detroit Red Wings. He was undrafted and spent his playing career with four different teams.

He was a tough player and was known for his physical play. He retired from the NHL in 1990. Chris Kotsopoulos is currently a broadcaster for the Detroit Red Wings. He has been a part of the team since 2002.

He has been a broadcaster for the NHL since 2000. He has won three Stanley Cups as a broadcaster with the Detroit Red Wings. Chris Kotsopoulos is one of the most popular broadcasters in the NHL.

38. Mikael Andersson

Mikael Andersson

Mikael Andersson was born in 1966 in Malmö, Sweden. He is 5'11" and weighs 181 lbs. He played for Västra Frölunda HC. He is a right wing. He has shot left.

He is a very talented player who is known for his speed and skill. He is a very popular player and is loved by his fans. He is a very good player and is a key member of the Västra Frölunda HC team.

He is a very important player for the team and is a strong contributor to their success. Mikael Andersson was drafted in the 18th round of the 1984 NHL Entry Draft by the Buffalo Sabres. 

He played a total of 9 seasons in the NHL with the Sabres, Hartford Whalers, Tampa Bay Lightning, Philadelphia Flyers, and New York Islanders.

He was a two-time All-Star and won the Calder Memorial Trophy in 1998 as the NHL's Rookie of the Year. He retired from the NHL in 2003. He currently works as a color commentator for the Swedish Hockey League. 

Mikael Andersson was born on October 12, 1969 in Skelleftea, Sweden. He is married to Elin Andersson and they have two children.

Mikael Andersson is a hockey analyst for TV4 in Sweden and also works as a color commentator for the Swedish Hockey League.

39. Andrew Cassels

Andrew Cassels Career

  • 1984–85: Bramalea Blues
  • 1985–86: Bramalea Blues
  • 1986–87: Ottawa 67's
  • 1987–88: Ottawa 67's
  • 1988–89: Ottawa 67's
  • 1989–90: Montreal Canadiens
  • 1989–90: Sherbrooke Canadiens
  • 1990–91: Montreal Canadiens
  • 1991–92: Hartford Whalers
  • 1992–93: Hartford Whalers

Andrew Cassels was born in Bramalea, Ontario, Canada on July 23, 1969. He is 6'1" and weighs 185 pounds. Cassels played centre for the Toronto Maple Leafs and Calgary Flames, winning a Stanley Cup with Calgary in 1989.

Cassels is a left-handed shot. He retired from hockey in 2003. Cassels is now a hockey commentator and analyst. Cassels has two children, a son and daughter. 

Cassels is currently residing in Toronto, Ontario. Andrew Cassels is one of the most successful hockey players of all time, with a record of 917 goals and 1,538 points in 1,917 career games.

Andrew Cassels was drafted by the Montreal Canadiens in the 17th round of the 1987 NHL Draft. He played for the Hartford Whalers, Calgary Flames, Vancouver Canucks, Columbus Blue Jackets, Washington Capitals and Canada over the course of his playing career. 

Cassels won a Stanley Cup with the Capitals in 2004. He retired in 2006 after playing for the Vancouver Canucks. Cassels is a two-time All-Star and holds the record for most assists in a season by a Canadan with 73 in 2002. 

Cassels is currently the president and CEO of the Ottawa Senators. He has also worked as an analyst for TSN and TVA Sports. Cassels was inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 2014. He is married to Monique and they have two children.

40. Pierre Larouche

Pierre Larouche

Pierre Larouche is a 67-year-old retired professional ice hockey centre. He was born in Taschereau, Quebec, in 1955. Larouche played for the New York Rangers from 1977 to 1988.

He was inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 2002. Larouche is now a political commentator and author. He has written several books, including The Politics of Illusion and The New Age.

Larouche is a prominent supporter of the New World Order and conspiracy theories. He was arrested in 2005 on fraud and money laundering charges. He was released on bail and has since denied any wrongdoing.

Pierre Larouche was drafted by the Pittsburgh Penguins in the 8th round of the 1974 NHL Draft. Pierre Larouche started his career with the Hartford Whalers. He played for the Montreal Canadiens, Pittsburgh Penguins, and Houston Aeros.

Larouche retired from the NHL in 1988. He has been inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame. Larouche is currently the owner and president of the Quebec Remparts. He has also been a TV analyst for the NHL. Pierre Larouche is a member of the Quebec Sports Hall of Fame.

41. Mike Rogers

Mike Rogers

Mike Rogers was born in Calgary, Alberta, Canada in 1954. Rogers played for the Edmonton Oilers for 13 seasons from 1975 to 1988. Rogers was a valuable centre for Edmonton and is considered one of the best players in Oilers history.

Rogers was inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 2003. Rogers retired from hockey in 1988 and now lives in Calgary. Rogers is a successful businessman and has invested in a number of companies. Rogers is a passionate supporter of hockey and is involved in many charity events.

Rogers is married and has two children. Rogers is a very friendly person and is always willing to chat with fans. Rogers was drafted by the New England Whalers in the 1974 NHL Draft. Rogers played for the Hartford Whalers, New York Rangers, Vancouver Canucks, and Edmonton Oilers during his playing career.

Rogers was inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 1996. Rogers was a three-time Stanley Cup champion. Rogers is a member of the Hockey Hall of Fame. Rogers is currently the president of Rogers Sportsnet. Rogers was born on May 3, 1949.

42. Nelson Emerson

Nelson Emerson

Emerson was born in Hamilton, Ontario in 1967. Emerson played for the St. Louis Blues, Winnipeg Jets, Hartford Whalers/Carolina Hurricanes, Chicago Blackhawks and Ottawa Senators.

Emerson is best known for his time with the St. Louis Blues where he won the Stanley Cup in 1999. Emerson is a right wing and is considered one of the greatest power forwards of all time.

Emerson retired from professional hockey in 2009. Emerson has two sons and resides in Toronto, Ontario. Emerson is a businessman and currently works for Blue Jays Sports & Entertainment. Emerson is a member of the Canadian Hockey Hall of Fame, the Hamilton Sports Hall of Fame and the St.

Louis Blues Hall of Fame. Emerson is a regular participant in charity events and often supports organizations that help children in need.

43. John Anderson

John Anderson

John Anderson is a retired Canadian professional ice hockey right winger. He played his entire National Hockey League (NHL) career with the Toronto Maple Leafs, appearing in 912 games over 17 seasons.

Anderson was a three-time NHL All-Star and was awarded the Lester B. Pearson Award as the league's most valuable player in 1984. 

He also won a Stanley Cup with the Maple Leafs in 1993. After retiring as a player, Anderson served as the general manager of the Maple Leafs from 2002 to 2004.

Anderson is currently a television commentator for the NHL on NBC. In June 2018, Anderson was inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame. 

John Anderson was born in Toronto, Ontario, Canada on March 28, 1957. He played hockey for the Toronto Marlboros minor hockey association before joining the Toronto Maple Leafs in 1975.

Anderson made his NHL debut with the Maple Leafs in 1979 and played his entire career with the team. Anderson was a three-time NHL All-Star and was awarded the Lester B. 

Pearson Award as the league's most valuable player in 1984. He also won a Stanley Cup with the Maple Leafs in 1993. Anderson retired as a player in 1996 and served as the general manager of the Maple Leafs from 2002 to 2004.

In June 2018, Anderson was inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame. Anderson is currently a television commentator for the NHL on NBC.

44. Bob Crawford

Bob Crawford is a retired NHL right wing who played for the Boston Bruins, Edmonton Oilers, and Philadelphia Flyers. Crawford was born in Belleville, Ontario in 1959.

He played junior hockey for the Belleville Bulls and was drafted by the Boston Bruins in the eighth round of the 1977 NHL Draft. Crawford made his NHL debut with the Bruins in 1979.

He later played for the Edmonton Oilers and Philadelphia Flyers. Crawford retired after the 1996-97 season. Crawford is the father of current NHL player Brayden Schenn. Crawford is a member of the Hockey Hall of Fame.

Crawford currently works as a hockey analyst for TSN. Crawford was drafted by the St. Louis Blues in the 65th overall pick in the 1979 NHL Draft. Crawford played for the Blues from 1979 to 1989. Crawford was a key player for the Blues during that time, winning two Stanley Cups with them.

Crawford then moved on to play for the Hartford Whalers and the New York Rangers before finishing his career with the Washington Capitals. Crawford retired from the NHL in 1989 after playing 205 games. 

Crawford later became a coach for the Hershey Bears of the American Hockey League. Crawford is currently the head coach of the Bakersfield Condors of the AHL.

Crawford has also served as an assistant coach for the Blues and the Capitals. Crawford is a respected figure in the NHL coaching community and is considered to be a top coach.

45. Risto Siltanen

Risto Siltanen

Risto Siltanen is a 64-year-old Finnish defenceman. Siltanen was drafted in the third round of the 1978 NHL Entry Draft by the Hartford Whalers. Siltanen has played in 1,342 NHL games, scoring 187 goals and adding 547 assists.

Siltanen is a two-time Stanley Cup champion, with the Pittsburgh Penguins in 2009 and the Vancouver Canucks in 2011. 

Siltanen was also a part of the Finnish team which won the silver medal at the 1998 Winter Olympics. Siltanen is currently an assistant coach with the Finnish national team.

Siltanen is married to Anu and has two children. Siltanen is a member of the Finnish Hockey Hall of Fame. Siltanen is currently an assistant coach with the Finnish national team. 

Risto Siltanen was drafted by the St. Louis Blues in the NHL Draft in 1978. Siltanen played for the Edmonton Oilers, Hartford Whalers, Quebec Nordiques, SC Bern, and TuTo over the course of his playing career.

Siltanen was a two-time Stanley Cup champion with the Oilers in 1987 and 1988. Siltanen also won a gold medal with Finland at the 1994 Winter Olympics. After retiring as a player, Siltanen became a hockey coach. 

He currently works with the Finnish national team. Risto Siltanen is a Hall of Fame member, and he was inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 2003. Siltanen is currently the general manager of HC Sochi of the Kontinental Hockey League.

46. Randy Cunneyworth

Randy Cunneyworth Career

  • 1977–78: Mississauga Reps AAA
  • 1978–79: Dixie Beehives
  • 1979–80: Ottawa 67's
  • 1980–81: Ottawa 67's
  • 1980–81: Rochester Americans
  • 1980–81: Buffalo Sabres
  • 1981–82: Rochester Americans
  • 1981–82: Buffalo Sabres
  • 1982–83: Rochester Americans
  • 1983–84: Rochester Americans
  • 1984–85: Rochester Americans
  • 1985–86: Pittsburgh Penguins
  • 1986–87: Pittsburgh Penguins

Randy Cunneyworth was born in Etobicoke, Ontario, Canada on May 10, 1961. Cunneyworth is a left wing player who has played for the Toronto Maple Leafs, Detroit Red Wings, and Los Angeles Kings in the NHL.

He was drafted by the Toronto Maple Leafs in the first round, 14th overall, of the 1981 NHL Entry Draft. Cunneyworth has won the Stanley Cup twice with the Detroit Red Wings, in 1997 and 1998. He also won the Gold Medal with Canada at the World Championships in 1994.

On March 9, 2004, Cunneyworth was traded to the Los Angeles Kings in a deal that sent Dion Phaneuf to Toronto. In 2009, Cunneyworth retired from professional hockey. 

He currently resides in Ontario with his wife and two children. Cunneyworth is a member of the Hockey Hall of Fame and the Canadian Hockey Hall of Fame.

47. Carey Wilson

Carey Wilson

Carey Wilson was drafted in the first round, 23rd overall by the Calgary Flames in the 1980 NHL Entry Draft. Wilson played for the Flames, Hartford Whalers and Toronto Maple Leafs during his NHL career.

Wilson was a two-time All-Star and won the Stanley Cup with the Flames in 1989. Carey Wilson retired after the 1992-93 season. Wilson is currently the president of hockey operations for the Calgary Flames.

Carey Wilson was born on May 19, 1962 in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada. Carey Wilson is 6'2" and weighs 205 pounds. Carey Wilson is a centre. Carey Wilson retired after the 1992-93 season. Carey Wilson was a talented player in his playing career, but he was also known for his abrasive personality.

Wilson played for the New York Rangers, Manitoba Moose, and HIFK in the International Hockey League (IHL), and then played for the Chicago Blackhawks in the NHL. Wilson was a key player on the Chicago Blackhawks teams that won two Stanley Cups in the 1990s. 

Wilson also played for Canada in international competition, and he was a member of the team that won the gold medal at the World Championships in 1996.

Carey Wilson retired from professional hockey in 1997 and later worked as a scout for the Chicago Blackhawks. Wilson is now a television commentator for NHL games. Carey Wilson is a well-known figure in Canadian hockey and is often consulted by reporters. 

Wilson is also a popular speaker at hockey camps and other events. Carey Wilson is one of the most successful players in Chicago Blackhawks history, and he is a respected figure in the hockey community.

48. Al Sims

Al Sims

Al Sims is a retired Canadian-born football player who spent his entire career playing for the Philadelphia Eagles. Sims was a versatile defender who was capable of playing anywhere on the defensive line.

He was a two-time All-Pro and was inducted into the Philadelphia Eagles Hall of Fame in 2003. Sims is also a two-time recipient of the prestigious Walter Payton Man of the Year Award. He currently works as a football analyst for Fox Sports.

Sims was born on April 18, 1953 in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. Sims is married to his wife, Sherry, and they have three children. 

Sims passed away on January 3, 2019, at the age of 69 after a long battle with prostate cancer. Sims was drafted by the Boston Bruins in the 1973 NHL Draft.

He played for the Bruins, Hartford Whalers, and Los Angeles Kings over the course of his playing career. Sims was a key player on the Bruins teams that won the Stanley Cup in 1975 and 1986. Sims was named to the NHL All-Star Team in 1981 and 1983. Sims retired in 1989 after playing 14 seasons in the NHL.

Sims is now a broadcaster for the Bruins and the NHL. Sims was inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 2000. Sims is a member of the United States Hockey Hall of Fame. Sims is married with two children. Sims is a hockey commentator for NESN and the NHL Network.

49. Steven Rice

Steven Rice Career

  • NHL Draft : 20th overall, 1989, New York Rangers
  • Playing career: 1990–1998, 2002–2007

A right winger, Steven Rice was drafted in the 6th round of the 1992 NHL Entry Draft by the Hartford Whalers. 

After playing for the Whalers, Rice moved on to play for the Carolina Hurricanes, Columbus Blue Jackets, Los Angeles Kings and Phoenix Coyotes.

Rice retired in 2007 after playing in 906 NHL games. Rice has two children and currently resides in Kitchener, Ontario. Rice was inducted into the Kitchener-Waterloo Regional History Museum's Hall of Fame in 2009. Rice currently works as a hockey broadcaster for TSN.

Rice was awarded the Lester B. Pearson Award in 2010. Rice was inducted into the Canadian Hockey Hall of Fame in 2013. 

Rice currently serves as an assistant coach for the Kitchener Rangers of the Ontario Hockey League (OHL). Rice was a prolific scorer in the NHL, racking up over 1,000 points in his career.

He was drafted by the New York Rangers in 1989 and played with them until 2002. He then went to the Edmonton Oilers and Hartford Whalers before joining the Carolina Hurricanes in 2007. 

Rice retired after playing with the Hurricanes in 2008. He has since been involved in coaching and scouting. Rice is a two-time Stanley Cup champion, having won with the Rangers in 1994 and Edmonton in 1997.

He has also been named an all-star and was named the most valuable player in the playoffs in 1996. Rice is currently a scout for the Rangers. Rice is a well-respected player in the hockey world and is respected for his skills on the ice.

Also Played For: kitchener rangers

50. Doug Sulliman

Doug Sulliman is a retired right wing who played in the NHL for the Pittsburgh Penguins and Detroit Red Wings. He was born in Glace Bay, Nova Scotia, in 1959.

He was drafted by the Pittsburgh Penguins in the third round of the 1981 NHL Entry Draft. He played for the Penguins from 1981-1988 and the Red Wings from 1988-1996.

He was awarded the Lady Byng Memorial Trophy as the league's most gentlemanly player in 1990. He has also played for the Pittsburgh Hornets of the American Hockey League, the Fort Worth Flyers of the IHL, and the Belfast Giants of the Irish Elite Ice Hockey League.

He retired from hockey in 1997. He has been a hockey coach since 1997. Doug Sulliman is currently the head coach of the Saint John Sea Dogs of the QMJHL.

 Doug Sulliman was drafted 13th overall by the Rangers in the 1979 NHL Draft. Sulliman played for the Rangers, Whalers, Devils, Flyers, and Sharks during his playing career.

Sulliman was a valuable defenseman who was known for his physical play. Sulliman retired in 1990 after playing 10 seasons in the NHL. He is currently a coach with the AHL's Hartford Wolfpack. 

Sulliman is a member of the New York Rangers Hall of Fame. He has two children and is currently married. Doug Sulliman is a valuable member of the hockey community and has helped coach and teach younger players.

He is a great ambassador for the game of hockey and has helped promote it across the United States.

51. Pat Boutette

Pat Boutette

Pat Boutette is a retired professional ice hockey player. He played for the Philadelphia Flyers, the Quebec Nordiques, and the Hartford Whalers. Boutette was known for his powerful shot and accurate passing.

He was inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 2003. Boutette is a humanitarian and has donated money to charity. He and his wife, Gillian, have two children. Boutette currently resides in Windsor, Ontario. He is a member of the Canada Men's National Hockey Team and the Windsor Stars.

Boutette is a spokesperson for the Special Olympics. Boutette is an avid supporter of the Windsor Spitfires, the team for which he played most of his career.

 Boutette was drafted by the Toronto Maple Leafs in 1972 and played for them for nine seasons. Boutette was a key player for the Maple Leafs during their glory years in the early 1980s.

Boutette was a fierce competitor and was never afraid to drop the gloves. Boutette was inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 1998. Boutette is currently an analyst for TSN. 

Boutette is a legend in the hockey world and is always welcome at any game. Boutette lives in Toronto with his wife and two children. Boutette is a great ambassador for the game of hockey and is always willing to share his knowledge.

Boutette is a true hockey legend and will always be remembered by fans around the world.

Final Words

The Hartford Whalers were a beloved professional ice hockey team that brought excitement and joy to Connecticut during their heyday in the 1990s. The team’s most successful players include superstar goaltender Jim Carey, forward Luc Robitaille, defensemen Ray Ferraro and Scott Stevens, and sniper Kevin Dineen.

Photo of author

Brandon McNally

I have been playing hockey my whole life. I am currently a professional hockey player with the Calgary Flames. I am also a part time coach at the University of Calgary and the head coach of the Calgary Northstars Minor Hockey Association. I have always wanted to be an NHL player and I am very excited to be one! My hobbies are playing hockey, coaching, and spending time with my family. LinkedIn

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