During the NHL’s hiatus, we at the Last Word on Hockey are going to look back at each date’s historical significance to the game. We’ll remember the moments that shaped the sport of hockey that happened on this day. Here’s our look at this date in hockey history for June 14th, featuring Brian Leetch.
Today in Hockey History
Brian Leetch Wins Conn Smythe as Rangers End Drought
1994: The New York Rangers defenceman scores along with Adam Graves and Mark Messier as the Blueshirts win the championship. New York wins 3-2 over the Vancouver Canucks in Game 7 for its first title since 1940. Leetch becomes the first American to win the playoff MVP award.
Trevor Linden scores a pair of goals for Vancouver to create tension with the Madison Square Garden faithful. However, Craig MacTavish wins a key faceoff and Mike Richter plays stellar in goal. The Rangers also win their first Cup at home since 1926.
Other Notable Events
1894: Hall of Famer Jack Adams is born in Fort William, Ontario. He plays 10 seasons, but is more known for being a coach and general manager with the Detroit Red Wings.
1945: The Board of Governors rejects a team in Philadelphia that would start in 1946-47. The Philadelphia Quakers last played there in 1930-31.
1977: Detroit takes Dale McCourt with the top pick of the NHL Draft. The New York Islanders select Mike Bossy with the 15th pick.
1988: The Minnesota North Stars fire former United States Olympic coach Herb Brooks. He has a record of 19-48-13 in one season in charge. General manager Lou Nanne is also relieved of his duties.
The Pittsburgh Penguins also let go of Pierre Creamer after just one season behind the bench.
1993: The Florida Panthers are officially given membership into the NHL. Florida’s team will be based in Miami, but move to Sunrise, Florida eventually.
1994: Bobby Clarke is named president, general manager and part-owner of the Philadelphia Flyers. He returns to the team after one year with the Panthers as GM.
1999: The Los Angeles Kings name Andy Murray (not the tennis player) their new coach. Murray replaces Hall of Fame defenceman Larry Robinson, who was fired at the end of the season.
2006: Fernando Pisani becomes the first player to score a shorthanded overtime goal in the Final. He helps the Edmonton Oilers beat the Carolina Hurricanes, 4-3, in Game 5.
Happy Birthday to You
1894: Jack Adams
1901: Hap Day
1929: Johnny Wilson
1933: Parker MacDonald
1963: James Patrick
1969: Eric Desjardins
1973: Sami Kapanen
1978: Steve Begin
1987: Andrew Cogliano
1992: Devante Smith-Pelly
