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Hockey


TOUGHEST HOCKEY PLAYERS IN NHL HISTORY

By Alex Jones, updated on January 3, 2022
Philadelphia Flyers left wing Craig Berube, right, follows through with a right
hand to Detroit Red Wings left wing Bob Probert's face during a brawl in a 1987
game.Charles Krupa/AP Photo

The cliche is the hockey player’s jack-o'-lantern smile, the specter of missing
teeth that no other pro sport embodies as much as the NHL.

Chief among those that dish out the pain are the enforcers, the men drafted to
make their living protecting the superstar scorers. It’s a balancing act of
brute force and finesse, of thundering checks and precision slap shots.

These are the toughest to play in the NHL, a collection of skaters and shooters
who could take a hit and the men who delivered the biggest blows.





60. GEORGE PARROS


Montreal Canadiens right wing George Parros, left, drops a hammer on Anaheim
Ducks right wing Tim Jackman during a fight in 2014.Ringo H.W. Chiu/AP Photo

Seasons in NHL: 9 (2005-14)

Teams: Los Angeles Kings, Colorado Avalanche, Anaheim Ducks, Florida Panthers,
Montreal Canadiens

Career games played: 474

Career fights: 169

Plus/minus: -11

Stanley Cups: 1

*All stats are from NHL.com, Hockey Fights and Drop Your Gloves.








TOUGHEST HOCKEY PLAYERS IN NHL HISTORY

Drop the gloves, and get ready to rumble with the game's baddest dudes.


TOUGHEST HOCKEY PLAYERS IN NHL HISTORY

Philadelphia Flyers left wing Craig Berube, right, follows through with a right
hand to Detroit Red Wings left wing Bob Probert's face during a brawl in a 1987
game.

The cliche is the hockey player’s jack-o'-lantern smile, the specter of missing
teeth that no other pro sport embodies as much as the NHL.

Chief among those that dish out the pain are the enforcers, the men drafted to
make their living protecting the superstar scorers. It’s a balancing act of
brute force and finesse, of thundering checks and precision slap shots.

These are the toughest to play in the NHL, a collection of skaters and shooters
who could take a hit and the men who delivered the biggest blows.


60. GEORGE PARROS

Montreal Canadiens right wing George Parros, left, drops a hammer on Anaheim
Ducks right wing Tim Jackman during a fight in 2014.

Seasons in NHL: 9 (2005-14)

Teams: Los Angeles Kings, Colorado Avalanche, Anaheim Ducks, Florida Panthers,
Montreal Canadiens

Career games played: 474

Career fights: 169

Plus/minus: -11

Stanley Cups: 1

*All stats are from NHL.com, Hockey Fights and Drop Your Gloves.


BOTTOM LINE: GEORGE PARROS

Anaheim Ducks right wing George Parros fights with San Jose Sharks left wing
Ryane Clowe in 2010.

George Parros may have been the smartest man to ever play as an enforcer in the
NHL. At 6-foot-5 and 232 pounds, the mustachioed Princeton grad was a physical
presence whenever he laced up his skates. Parros even took boxing lessons to
improve his fighting technique.

He recorded his first goal — and his first Gordie Howe hat trick with a goal,
assist and major fighting penalty — just three weeks into his rookie campaign
with the Los Angeles Kings.

After hanging up his skates, Parros became head of the NHL's department of
player safety.


IN THEIR OWN WORDS: GEORGE PARROS

George Parros played in 474 career games.

"If you had to describe George Parros in four words, they’d be mustache, fists
and good guy." —USA Today


59. BASIL MCRAE

St. Louis Blues left wing Basil McRae, right, mixes it up with Dallas Stars
defenseman Richard Matvichuk in 1996.

Seasons in NHL: 16 (1981-97)

Teams: Quebec Nordiques, Toronto Maple Leafs, Detroit Red Wings, Minnesota North
Stars, Tampa Bay Lightning, St. Louis Blues, Chicago Blackhawks

Career games played: 576

Career fights: 209

Plus/minus: -104

Stanley Cups: 0


BOTTOM LINE: BASIL MCRAE

Minnesota North Star Basil McRae battles Pittsburgh Penguins defenseman Paul
Coffey in 1989.

Basil McRae turned his physical presence and strong forechecking skills into a
long hockey career — and a movie career as well, with a cameo appearance in "The
Mighty Ducks."

The brawling left wing registered four straight seasons with more than 300
penalty minutes, and finished with 2,457 minutes in the box.


IN THEIR OWN WORDS: BASIL MCRAE

Basil McRae, left, had over 200 career fights.

"McRae was also a great leader. A charismatic guy in the dressing room, he was a
coach's delight. He knew how to make rookies and newcomers feel right at home.
He kept the guys loose with his jokes and antics. His enthusiastic love of the
game rubbed off on his teammates, and his team was the all better for it."
—NorthStarsLegends.Blogspot.com


58. JERRY KORAB

Buffalo Sabres defenseman Jerry Korab heads for the ice after getting tangled up
with Philadelphia Flyers center Bobby Clarke in 1974.

Seasons in NHL: 15 (1970-85)

Teams: Chicago Blackhawks, Vancouver Canucks, Buffalo Sabres, Los Angeles Kings

Career games played: 975

Career fights: 70

Plus/minus: 62

Stanley Cups: 0


BOTTOM LINE: JERRY KORAB

Los Angeles Kings Jerry Korab and Montreal Canadien Chris Nilan get tangled up
with officials after they got into a scrap on the ice din 1981.

At 6-foot-3 and 220 pounds, Jerry Korab was one of the more physically imposing
defensemen of the 1970s.

"King Kong" started his career with the Chicago Blackhawks before skating to two
All-Star games with the Buffalo Sabres and helping the franchise to its first
Stanley Cup Final appearance in 1975.

While the massive Korab, known for his sartorial style, could pack a punch, he
now owns a packaging service in Illinois.


IN THEIR OWN WORDS: JERRY KORAB

Jerry Korab is a hockey legend.

"Buffalo fans endeared themselves to a monstrous defenseman named Jerry Korab —
better known as King Kong Korab, or just Kong. Korab was nicknamed King Kong
because of his intimidating size and his appearance. At 6-foot-3 and 220 pounds,
he was as big as the giant gorilla. Plus, he sported a messy mop of hair and big
bushy mustache." —SabresLegends.Blogspot.com


57. GARY ROBERTS

Toronto Maple Leafs left wing Gary Roberts, top, slams Carolina Hurricanes left
wing Erik Cole in a 2002 playoff game.

Seasons in NHL: 21 (1987-2009)

Teams: Calgary Flames, Carolina Hurricanes, Toronto Maple Leafs, Florida
Panthers, Pittsburgh Penguins, Tampa Bay Lightning

Career games played: 1,224

Career fights: 90

Plus/minus: 229

Stanley Cups: 1


BOTTOM LINE: GARY ROBERTS

Florida Panther Gary Roberts, right, is hit into Toronto Maple Leafs goalie
Andrew Raycroft during a game in 2006.

After playing with nerve damage in his injured neck, Gary Roberts won the Bill
Masterton Memorial Trophy for dedication and perseverance in 1996, and retired
at age 30. Then, he proved how much he deserved the award.

Roberts underwent physiotherapy treatment and dedicated himself to fitness, and
came out of retirement in 1997 to play another 11 seasons. How tough was he? He
once skated off the ice under his own power after breaking his leg during a
game.

He now runs a fitness center in Ontario.


IN THEIR OWN WORDS: GARY ROBERTS

Gary Roberts has a lot of fans.

"Roberts chooses to be meticulous and controlling for two reasons: 1. He is
passionate about training and nutrition. 2. His career almost came to an end
when he was 30, because he didn't train and eat properly in order to play the
way he needed to play to survive in the NHL. He does not want the same thing to
happen to someone else." -NHL.com


56. DAVE MANSON

Chicago Blackhawks defenseman Dave Manson, left, checks New Jersey Devils left
wing Sergei Brylin to the ice in 2000.

Seasons in NHL: 16 (1986-2002)

Teams: Chicago Blackhawks, Edmonton Oilers, Winnipeg Jets, Phoenix Coyotes,
Montreal Canadiens, Dallas Stars, Toronto Maple Leafs

Career games played: 1,103

Career fights: 80

Plus/minus: -8

Stanley Cups: 0


BOTTOM LINE: DAVE MANSON

Chicago Blackhawks Dave Manson, left, and friends.

Dave Manson, a powerful defenseman, played with seven teams across 16 NHL
seasons.

The 6-foot-2, 200-pounder mixed it up with the likes of Bob Probert and Tie
Domi, and his 2,792 career penalty minutes left him just short of the top 10
career list.

The fighting left its mark: Manson speaks with a low, raspy voice after
suffering permanent damage to his larynx when he was punched in the throat
during a game in 1991.


IN THEIR OWN WORDS: DAVE MANSON

Dave Manson could enforce and play.

"Long gone are the days when an enforcer would be there to fight, then sit on
the bench, only playing two minutes a night. You have to be able to keep up and
make plays. You have to be able to play as an enforcer. You need four lines that
can play hockey." —Dave Manson


55. MATTHEW BARNABY

Pittsburgh Penguins right wing Matthew Barnaby, right, fights Carolina
Hurricanes center Byron Ritchie in 1999.

Seasons in NHL: 14 (1992-2007)

Teams: Buffalo Sabres, Pittsburgh Penguins, Tampa Bay Lightning, New York
Rangers, Colorado Avalanche, Chicago Blackhawks, Dallas Stars

Career games played: 834

Career fights: 211

Plus/minus: 5

Stanley Cups: 0


BOTTOM LINE: MATTHEW BARNABY

Fist meet face.

One night, you're having dinner together. The next night, you're fighting it out
on the ice. Such was life for the heavy-fisted Matthew Barnaby, who fought his
former teammate, tough guy Rob Ray, in 2000.

Skating from the right wing, Barnaby was a frequent fighter who never was afraid
to mix it up, recording 2,562 penalty minutes over 834 regular-season games.
Once, while lying on the ice after an apparent injury against the Philadelphia,
he was goaded back into action by Flyers goalie Garth Snow, who poked him with
his stick. Barnaby leaped to his skates and pummeled Snow.

Barnaby battled it out for seven teams during 14 NHL seasons.


IN THEIR OWN WORDS: MATTHEW BARNABY

Matthew Barnaby played on seven teams in his NHL career.

"It’s tough, but a lot of it is mental. A lot of it is the way you approach a
fight, and your stamina has to be very good. That’s why I work out hard in the
offseason. The longer the fight goes, the more chance I have of winning it. A
bigger guy’s gonna get tired out." —Matthew Barnaby


54. BRAD MAY

Phoenix Coyotes left wing Brad May, left, slams Buffalo Sabres left wing Eric
Boulton to the ice in 2001.

Seasons in NHL: 18 (1991-2010)

Teams: Buffalo Sabres, Vancouver Canucks, Phoenix Coyotes, Colorado Avalanche,
Anaheim Ducks, Toronto Maple Leafs, Detroit Red Wings

Career games played: 1,041

Career fights: 163

Plus/minus: -21

Stanley Cups: 1


BOTTOM LINE: BRAD MAY

Detroit Red Wing Brad May, top, and St. Louis Blue Brad Winchester fight in
2010.

Brad May's heroic 1993 playoff goal was immortalized in one of the great goal
calls — "Mayday! Mayday! Mayday!" — as he netted an overtime winner, and the
Buffalo Sabres swept the Boston Bruins in the first round in 1993.

But May was known more for his fighting than scoring, and spent 2,248 minutes in
the penalty box during his 18-season career. He was suspended for three games
during the 2007 playoffs after knocking out Minnesota Wild defenseman Kim
Johnsson.


IN THEIR OWN WORDS: BRAD MAY

Brad May played in over 1,000 career games.

"I actually never retired. However my phone stopped ringing and my hockey career
ended. To make it official, Thank you to my teammates, fans, friends, family,
and organizations that I played for. And, The @NHL I am a lucky man." —Brad May
on Twitter


53. BORJE SALMING

Swedish hockey legend Borje Salming is painted on the mask of Toronto Maple
Leafs goaltender Mikael Tellqvist in 2003.

Seasons in NHL: 17 (1973-90)

Teams: Toronto Maple Leafs, Detroit Red Wings

Career games played: 1,148

Career fights: 5

Plus/minus: 170

Stanley Cups: 0


BOTTOM LINE: BORJE SALMING

Toronto Maple Leaf Borje Salming, No. 21, jabs Los Angeles King Syl Apps with
the handle of his stick in 1978.

Borje Salming was a sweet-skating Swedish defenseman and Hall of Famer most
known for the 16 seasons he spent becoming the Toronto Maple Leafs' career
assists leader.

The six-time All-Star once needed more than two hundred stitches after his face
was sliced open by an opponent's skate.


IN THEIR OWN WORDS: BORJE SALMING

Borje Salming, far left, made his NHL debut in 1973.

"Every tough guy on every team was determined to find out just how much
punishment the NHL's first European star could take without cracking." —NHL.com


52. JAROMIR JAGR

Pittsburgh Penguins right wing Jaromir Jagr gets off a shot off against the
Philadelphia Flyers in 1995.

Seasons in NHL: 24 (1990-2018)

Teams: Pittsburgh Penguins, Washington Capitals, New York Rangers, Philadelphia
Flyers, Dallas Stars, Boston Bruins, New Jersey Devils, Florida Panthers,
Calgary Flames

Career games played: 1,733

Career fights: 0

Plus/minus: 322

Stanley Cups: 2


BOTTOM LINE: JAROMIR JAGR

Philadelphia Flyers right wing Jaromir Jagr, right, fights for the puck with San
Jose Sharks defenseman Marc-Edouard Vlasic.

One of the greatest hockey players in history, the indefatigable Jaromir Jagr is
second in NHL career regular-season points and third all-time in goals. While
not a fighter, the 13-time All-Star is the portrait of endurance.

He has scored more game winners and more overtime goals than any other player,
and is a member of the Triple Gold Club, winning the world championships and
Olympic gold with the Czech Republic and the Stanley Cup twice with the
Pittsburgh Penguins.

He holds several team records with the Penguins and the New York Rangers, and
set the mark for longest gap between Stanley Cup Final appearances at 21 years.


IN THEIR OWN WORDS: JAROMIR JAGR

Jaromir Jagr played 24 seasons in the NHL.

"When 44-year-old Jaromir Jagr notched his 1,888th point ... to move into second
place all-time behind Mark Messier (but still far behind Wayne Gretzky's 2,857)
it would be hard to imagine that this Mt. Rushmore of hockey legends will be
threatened in their lifetimes or perhaps ever." —Harvey Fialkov, Orlando
Sun-Sentinel


51. RED HORNER

Red Horner with the Toronto Maple Leafs in 1938.

Seasons in NHL: 12 (1928-40)

Teams: Toronto Maple Leafs

Career games played: 490

Career fights: Not available

Plus/minus: Not available

Stanley Cups: 1


BOTTOM LINE: RED HORNER

Red Horner was one of the NHL's early enforcers.

No other man has led the NHL in penalty minutes as often as enforcer George
"Red" Horner, who accomplished the feat seven times.

When he retired in 1940, the Toronto Maple Leafs captain and future Hall of
Famer was the league's all-time leader with 1,288 penalty minutes in 490
regular-season games. The mark stood until "Terrible" Ted Lindsay surpassed him
17 years later.


IN THEIR OWN WORDS: RED HORNER

Don't let Red Horner's smile fool you.

"No one, not even the toughest guys in the NHL, took liberties with the Leafs.
Do one of us dirt and you had to deal with Red. That was absolutely no fun at
all. He was as tough as any man who ever played the game, an excellent
body-checker who fought only when necessary." —King Clancy, The Toronto Star


50. BOB BAUN

Toronto Maple Leafs defenseman Bob Baun in the dressing room after scoring the
game winner against the Detroit Red Wings in overtime of Game 6 in the 1964
Stanley Cup Final.

Seasons in NHL: 17 (1956-73)

Teams: Toronto Maple Leafs, Oakland Seals, Detroit Red Wings

Career games played: 964

Career fights: 42

Plus/minus: 139 (no stats for first three seasons)

Stanley Cups: 4


BOTTOM LINE: BOB BAUN

Bob Baun, right, was nicknamed "Boomer."

Known for his stellar defense, Bob Baun never put in more than eight goals in a
season.

But over 11 seasons with the Toronto Maple Leafs, the big hitter they called
"Boomer" helped win four Stanley Cups, most dramatically netting the
game-winning overtime goal against the Detroit Red Wings in Game 6 of the 1964
finals — after fracturing his ankle earlier in the game.


IN THEIR OWN WORDS: BOB BAUN

Bob Baun won four Stanley Cups.

"[Bob] Baun, who most everyone knows now, played in last spring’s Stanley Cup
Final’s sixth and seventh games after suffering a cracked ankle.  The injury was
sustained when he blocked a shot in the third period of Game 6.  He was removed
from the ice on a stretcher and looked done for the rest of the series.
 However, the game went into overtime, and Baun miraculously appeared on the
Toronto bench.  He got onto the ice just in time to stop a Detroit clearing
attempt. He fired a bouncing, skipping shot which eluded his future teammate
Terry Sawchuk in the Detroit goal to give Toronto the win and force a seventh
and deciding game back in Toronto. The Leafs, of course, won that seventh game
going away, 4-0." —TheHockeyWriters.com on the Leafs winning the 1964 Stanley
Cup against the Detroit Red Wings.


49. GINO ODJICK

Philadelphia Flyers left wing Gino Odjick, back, fights with Minnesota Wild
defenseman Andy Sutton in 2000.

Seasons in NHL: 12 (1990-2002)

Teams: Vancouver Canucks, New York Islanders, Philadelphia Flyers, Montreal
Canadiens

Career games played: 605

Career fights: 155

Plus/minus: -21

Stanley Cups: 0


BOTTOM LINE: GINO ODJICK

Another night, another fight for Gino Odjick.

Gino Odjick was a left wing and enforcer. He spent 2,567 minutes in the penalty
box over a 12-season NHL career and was best known as a bodyguard for Vancouver
Canucks star Pavel Bure.

Though Odjick's career ended by concussion, the "Algonquin Assassin" has proven
to be a fighter off the ice as well. In 2014, Odjick was diagnosed with AL
amyloidosis, an often-terminal rare blood disease. But Odjick has beaten back
the disease after undergoing experimental treatment.


IN THEIR OWN WORDS: GINO ODJICK

Gino Odjick played 12 seasons in the NHL.

"The man simply known as Gino around Vancouver is easily the most popular tough
guy in Canucks history and he was their second most popular player during the
'90s, behind only Pavel Bure. Not only was Gino a great fighter, but he was
fiercely loyal to his teammates and actually developed a unique friendship with
Bure during their playing days." —Bleacher Report


48. KEN DANEYKO

New Jersey Devils defenseman Ken Daneyko, right, fights with Boston Bruins right
wing Steve Leach in 1996.

Seasons in NHL: 20 (1983-2003)

Teams: New Jersey Devils

Career games played: 1,283

Career fights: 123

Plus/minus: 78

Stanley Cups: 3


BOTTOM LINE: KEN DANEYKO

Wrestling time.

The New Jersey Devils chose Ken Daneyko in the first round in 1982, before they
even had named the team. "Mr. Devil" was a classic hard-hitting defenseman who
lost his front teeth to a hockey puck.

He spent his 20-year career in Jersey, scoring just 36 goals but amassing 2,519
penalty minutes and winning three Stanley Cups. In fact, Daneyko played in an
NHL-record 255 straight regular-season games without scoring a goal.


IN THEIR OWN WORDS: KEN DANEYKO

Ken Daneyko was an influencer.

"Ken Daneyko leaves an impact on just about everyone he meets. He's jovial,
loves life, loves to meet Devils fans and deeply cares about the team that
nicknamed him Mr. Devil. I know he leaves impressions on everyone who crosses
paths with him." —Amanda Stein, NHL.com


47. GLENN HALL

Detroit Red Wings goalie Glenn Hall waits as the puck heads his way against the
Montreal Canadiens in 1956.

Seasons in NHL: 18 (1952-71)

Teams: Detroit Red Wings, Chicago Blackhawks, St. Louis Blues

Career games played: 906

Career fights: Not available

Plus/minus: Not available

Stanley Cups: 2


BOTTOM LINE: GLENN HALL

St. Louis Blues goalie Glenn Hall did not wear a mask.

Over eight seasons, goalie Glenn Hall played an NHL-record 502 consecutive full
games in the net — all without a mask.

"Mr. Goalie" was an 11-time All-Star from the mid-1950s through the 1960s with
the Detroit Red Wings, Chicago Blackhawks and St. Louis Blues. He won three
Vezina Trophies and two Stanley Cup titles, and was elected to the Hall of Fame
in 1975.


IN THEIR OWN WORDS: GLENN HALL

Glenn Hall played on some legendary Chicago Blackhawks teams.

"Hall of Famer Glenn Hall — a legendary goalie between the pipes for the
Blackhawks from 1957-1967 — sits at his farm in Stony Plain, Alberta, remaining
sharp and humble at age 89 after earning the NHL’s greatest accolades and
achievements as a player by giving everything to and risking everything for the
game of hockey." —NBCSports.com


46. DAVE SEMENKO

Edmonton Oilers left wing Dave Semenko, left, on the bench during the 1983
Stanley Cup Final against the New York Islanders.

Seasons in NHL: 9 (1977-88)

Teams: Edmonton Oilers, Hartford Whalers, Toronto Maple Leafs

Career games played: 575

Career fights: 73

Plus/minus: 5

Stanley Cups: 2


BOTTOM LINE: DAVE SEMENKO

You should see the other guy.

Dave Semenko cemented his reputation as one of the NHL's toughest players when
the Edmonton Oilers won back-to-back Stanley Cups in 1984 and 1985, providing
protection on the left wing to the great Wayne Gretzky.

"The Great One" even gifted Semenko the car he won for being the 1983 All-Star
Game MVP. That same year, the Oilers' enforcer also entered the ring, fighting
Muhammad Ali to a three-round exhibition draw.


IN THEIR OWN WORDS: DAVE SEMENKO

Dave Semenko once fought Muhammad Ali in an exhibition boxing bout.

"One of the first Oilers I met in 1978, I didn't know at the time the impact
(Dave Semenko) would have in my life and my career. He was the toughest player I
knew and yet the biggest Teddy Bear you would ever know." —Wayne Gretzky


45. CLARK GILLIES

New York Islanders left wing Clark Gillies, left, fights Chicago Blackhawks
defenseman Behn Wilson in 1984.

Seasons in NHL: 14 (1974-88)

Teams: New York Islanders, Buffalo Sabres

Career games played: 958

Career fights: 66

Plus/minus: 245

Stanley Cups: 4


BOTTOM LINE: CLARK GILLIES

Clark Gillies, right, was 6-foot-3 and 215 pounds.

The New York Islanders drafted Clark Gillies fourth overall in 1974, and he made
an immediate impression in his rookie season, getting the best of Philadelphia
Flyers legendary enforcer Dave Schultz.

Dubbed "Jethro" after the beefy "Beverly Hillbillies" character, Gillies quickly
entrenched himself in the Islanders "Trio Grande" front line with Bryan Trottier
and Mike Bossy. Gillies never topped 100 penalty minutes in a season, despite
often serving as an enforcer, and helped lead the Islanders to four straight
Stanley Cups in the early 1980s.

He was inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 2002.


IN THEIR OWN WORDS: CLARK GILLIES

Clark Gillies provided pop and punch for the Islanders.

"[Clark] Gillies was only involved in 71 fights during his NHL career, but was
much regarded as the most feared fighter of his era. His reputation was
established after his destruction of Dave Schultz on live TV during the 1975
playoffs." -HockeyFights.Fandom.com


44. GEORGES LARAQUE

Phoenix Coyotes right wing Georges Laraque, left, battles with Nashville
Predators left wing Darcy Hordichuk in 2007.

Seasons in NHL: 12 (1997-2010)

Teams: Edmonton Oilers, Phoenix Coyotes, Pittsburgh Penguins, Montreal Canadiens

Career games played: 695

Career fights: 142

Plus/minus: 1

Stanley Cups: 0


BOTTOM LINE: GEORGES LARAQUE

Philadelphia Flyers forward Mike Knuble, left, and Pittsburgh Penguins forward
Georges Laraque battle for position in 2008.

At 6-foot-3 and 273 pounds, Georges Laraque cut an imposing figure on the ice.
Primarily an enforcer, "Big Georges" won a fight in his first NHL game with the
Edmonton Oilers.

The gregarious Laraque also was known for his celebratory "Laraque Leap" against
the glass after an Oilers goal.

He followed up his playing career in the announcer's booth and as a politician
with the Green Party of Canada.


IN THEIR OWN WORDS: GEORGES LARAQUE

Georges Laraque had 142 career fights.

"After leaving professional hockey in 2010, Georges [Laraque] sought
psychological treatment, which enabled him to come to terms with his former role
as a fighter, and helped him mend his relationship with his father, Edy."
—Vice.com


43. TERRY O'REILLY

Boston Bruins right wing Terry O'Reilly climbs over the Madison Square Garden
glass railing and grabs a fan at the end of a 1979 game against the New York
Rangers.

Seasons in NHL: 14 (1971-85)

Teams: Boston Bruins

Career games played: 891

Career fights: 176

Plus/minus: 222

Stanley Cups: 0


BOTTOM LINE: TERRY O'REILLY

It's just a flesh wound.

Terry O'Reilly was a reckless enforcer with a decent scoring touch who spent his
entire 14-year career with the Boston Bruins. The former first-round draft
choice put up 204 career goals to go with 2,095 penalty minutes before retiring
as the Bruins captain.

"Bloody O'Reilly" never backed down from a fight, once even scaling the glass to
go after a fan who hit teammate Stan Jonathan with a program after a game at
Madison Square Garden.

O'Reilly's brash style also earned him a movie mention as Happy Gilmore's
favorite hockey player.


IN THEIR OWN WORDS: TERRY O'REILLY

Terry O'Reilly was a fan favorite in Boston.

"[Terry] O'Reilly, 66, is one of the most popular players ever to play for the
Bruins; he was a wrecking ball on skates who ferociously defended teammates and
made life miserable for opposing goaltenders. O'Reilly, who had his No. 24
retired in 2002, was and remains a huge favorite with the Bruins' blue-collar
fan base." -NHL.com


42. CHRIS NILAN

Montreal Canadiens right wing Chris Nilan, center, shoves Washington Capitals
defenseman Larry Murphy in 1986.

Seasons in NHL: 13 (1979-92)

Teams: Montreal Canadiens, New York Rangers, Boston Bruins

Career games played: 688

Career fights: 250

Plus/minus: -1

Stanley Cups: 1


BOTTOM LINE: CHRIS NILAN

Montreal Canadiens Chris Nilan, right, rips the shirt off Boston Bruin Gord
Kluzak in 1988.

With a nickname like "Knuckles," Chris Nilan had to be a fighter. By average,
Nilan was the most-penalized player in NHL history at 4.42 minutes per game. 

He also holds the dubious record for most penalty minutes in a single game: a
mind-blowing 42 penalty minutes on 10 violations. Then a Boston Bruins forward,
Nilan was sent to the box for two major penalties, one misconduct, one game
misconduct and six minor penalties during a March 1991 game against the Hartford
Whalers.

After retirement, Nilan had a far greater fight than his ones on the ice. He
battled heroin and alcohol addiction, and his life is documented in a 2011
documentary "The Last Gladiators."


IN THEIR OWN WORDS: CHRIS NILAN

Chris Nilan had a fight in 36 percent of his games.

"In 1981 [Chris] Nilan married Karen Stanley, the daughter of Theresa Stanley, a
former girlfriend of crime kingpin Whitey Bulger. Nilan's marriage to Karen
Stanley ended in divorce in 2006." —TedTalksHockey.com


41. JOEY KOCUR

New York Rangers right wing Joey Kocur, top, fights with Montreal Candiens
defenseman Lyle Odelein in 1993.

Seasons in NHL: 15 (1984-99)

Teams: Detroit Red Wings, New York Rangers, Vancouver Canucks

Career games played: 820

Career fights: 209

Plus/minus: -99

Stanley Cups: 3


BOTTOM LINE: JOEY KOCUR

New York Ranger Joey Kocur loved to fight.

Joey Kocur was the right-wing half of the Detroit Red Wings' legendary brawling
"Bruise Brothers," frequently landing a devastating right hand that cracked
helmets and bones alike.

Kocur won three Stanley Cups over a career that spanned 15 seasons, once with
the New York Rangers and twice with the Red Wings.

In 820 career regular-season games, he racked up more than 2,500 penalty
minutes.


IN THEIR OWN WORDS: JOEY KOCUR

Joey Kocur won three Stanley Cups.

"Drafted by the Wings with the 88th overall pick in 1983, the Saskatchewan farm
boy formed the 'Bruise Brothers' with Bob Probert, perhaps the roughest,
toughest duo in NHL history." —Detroit Free Press


40. RAY BOURQUE

Ray Bourque playing with the Boston Bruins in a game against the Philadelphia
Flyers in 2000.

Seasons in NHL: 22 (1979-2001)

Teams: Boston Bruins, Colorado Avalanche

Career games played: 1,612

Career fights: 20

Plus/minus: 528

Stanley Cups: 1


BOTTOM LINE: RAY BOURQUE

Don't poke the Bear.

Ray Bourque showed that perseverance pays off. A 19-time All-Star and five-time
Norris Trophy winner, Bourque holds NHL records for goals and assists by a
defenseman.

The longtime Bruins captain played a record 1,612 regular season and 214 playoff
games before going out on top, winning his only Stanley Cup in his last game,
with the Colorado Avalanche in 2001.

Bourque took the Cup back to long-suffering Boston for a celebration at City
Hall before announcing his retirement.


IN THEIR OWN WORDS: RAY BOURQUE

Ray Bourque was inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 2004.

"After accepting the Stanley Cup from NHL commissioner Gary Bettman, Joe Sakic,
instead of taking the customary victory lap, handed the Cup to the 40-year-old
[Ray] Bourque for the symbolic first twirl. An exultant Bourque, the reference
point for two generations of NHL defensemen, hoisted the Cup and kissed it
before breaking down in tears." —NHL.com


39. RICK TOCCHET

Philadelphia Flyer Rick Tocchet, left, takes a fist from Quebec Nordique Greg
Smyth during a 1988 game in Philadelphia.

Seasons in NHL: 18 (1984-2002)

Teams: Philadelphia Flyers, Pittsburgh Penguins, Los Angeles Kings, Boston
Bruins, Washington Capitals, Phoenix Coyotes

Career games played: 1,144

Career fights: 269

Plus/minus: 84

Stanley Cups: 1


BOTTOM LINE: RICK TOCCHET

The gloves go flying as Rick Tocchet, right, and Jay Miller start to fight
during a game in 1988.

Right winger Rick Tocchet spent 18 seasons skating with six teams in the NHL,
starting his career as a fighter but developing decent scoring chops and earning
spots on four All-Star teams.

He leads the league with 18 known Gordie Howe hat tricks — for scoring a goal,
recording an assist and having a fight in a single game — and recorded 2,972
career penalty minutes.

He is also is former head coach with the Tampa Bay Lightning and Arizona
Coyotes.


IN THEIR OWN WORDS: RICK TOCCHET

Rick Tocchet played in 1,144 career NHL games.

"I just remember as a kid, being 19 years old, and (Flyers public relations
director) Joe Kadlec taking me to the Spectrum for the first time, as a draft
pick. I remember looking out at either side of the Walt Whitman Bridge at how
big Philly was and it was like, ‘Where am I?” And that area, the people there,
became like family to me. I grew up there." —Rick Tocchet


38. CRAIG BERUBE

Craig Berube, playing for the Calgary Flames, readies to throw a punch at New
York Rangers enforcer Tie Domi in a 1992 game at Madison Square Garden.

Seasons in NHL: 17 (1987-2003)

Teams: Philadelphia Flyers, Toronto Maple Leafs, Calgary Flames, Washington
Capitals, New York Islanders

Career games played: 1,054

Career fights: 412

Plus/minus: -81

Stanley Cups: 0


BOTTOM LINE: CRAIG BERUBE

Craig Berube, right, serves Bob Probert what's on the menu that evening.

It takes a tough guy to be a coach in the NHL, and longtime enforcer Craig
Berube put that toughness on display in 17 seasons as a player.

He spent 16 minutes in the penalty box during his first career game with the
Flyers, and finished with 3,149 minutes in the sin bin.

"Chief" — who is of First Nations ancestry — went on to coach the Flyers for two
seasons and now coaches the St. Louis Blues.


IN THEIR OWN WORDS: CRAIG BERUBE

Craig Berube went into coaching after his playing days.

"I don’t really know if I ever liked (fighting) that much. I mean, I just did a
lot of it. Even growing up, I did a lot of it as a kid. I grew up with 15-20
cousins around me every day and what’s going to happen? You’re going to get in
fights, and that’s the way it was. I grew up in that mindset, and as a player, I
needed to do that to play in the NHL. Otherwise, I wouldn’t have played in the
NHL." —Craig Berube


37. BOBBY HULL

Chicago Hull left wing Bobby Hull holds the puck which he drove into New York
Rangers' net to score his 50th goal in the 1961-62 season.

Seasons in NHL: 17 (1957-1972, 1979-1980)

Teams: Chicago Blackhawks, Winnipeg Jets, Hartford Whalers

Career games played: 1,063

Career fights: 23

Plus/minus: 249

Stanley Cups: 1


BOTTOM LINE: BOBBY HULL

Bobby Hull made his NHL debut with the Chicago Blackhawks in 1957 at the age of
18.

A two-time MVP and the NHL’s seven-time leading goal scorer, left wing Bobby
Hull, dubbed "The Golden Jet," was one of hockey’s fastest skaters.

The 12-time All-Star was the first man to score more than 50 goals in a season.

Despite spending seven seasons in the WHA, Hull and his son, Brett, are the only
father-son duo to score more than 600 NHL career goals each.


IN THEIR OWN WORDS: BOBBY HULL

Bobby Hull had a lot of fun playing the game.

"When [Bobby] Hull gathered the puck and went on a rink-length rush at Chicago
Stadium, or any building in the NHL, fans rose from their seats and held their
breath, as did opposing goaltenders." —NHL.com


36. JOHNNY BOWER

Toronto Maple Leafs goaltender Johnny Bower in the 1960s.

Seasons in NHL: 15 (1953-70)

Teams: New York Rangers, Toronto Maple Leafs

Career games played: 552

Career fights: Not available

Plus/minus: Not available

Stanley Cups: 4


BOTTOM LINE: JOHNNY BOWER

Johnny Bower displayed his latest scar, inflicted during a practice session with
the Cleveland Barons in 1958.

Johnny Bower lied about his age and enlisted with the Canadian Army at 15 to
fight in World War II. He was discharged after four years due to arthritis in
his hands — but went on to a stellar career as a goalie.

Nicknamed "The China Wall," Bower is credited with developing the poke check.
After nine seasons in the AHL, Bower broke in with the Rangers in the early
1950s.

The two-time Vezina Trophy winner helped the Maple Leafs win four Stanley Cups
and retired in 1969 at 45, then the oldest full-time player in the game.


IN THEIR OWN WORDS: JOHNNY BOWER

The man, the myth, the legend.

"[Johnny] Bower was one of hockey’s most talented and durable goalies. Facing
flying pucks without donning a mask until his final full season, he lost almost
all his teeth and needed at least 200 stitches in his face. He came out of his
net to dive at opposing players on breakaways, exposing his face to their
sharpened skates as he wielded his stick to poke-check the puck away." —The New
York Times


35. JAROME IGINLA

Calgary Flames right wing Jarome Iginla, right, fights with Dallas Stars left
wing Jamie Benn in 2010.

Seasons in NHL: 21 (1996-2017)

Teams: Calgary Flames, Pittsburgh Penguins, Boston Bruins, Colorado Avalanche,
Los Angeles Kings

Career games played: 1,554

Career fights: 116

Plus/minus: 30

Stanley Cups: 0


BOTTOM LINE: JAROME IGINLA

Here we go.

From the right wing, Jarome Iginla twice led the NHL in goals and earned MVP
honors in 2002. The six-time All Star also is a two-time Olympic gold-medal
winner.

"Iggy" recorded 625 goals, 675 assists and a number of Gordie Howe hat tricks.

He once broke his hand while slugging it out with Dallas Stars right wing Bill
Guerin.


IN THEIR OWN WORDS: JAROME IGINLA

Jarome Iginla was a first-round pick in 1995.

"How long was his career? Nineteen years? Twenty? That’s the amazing thing.
Because of the style that he played, he still managed to stay durable. Eric
Lindros was the biggest specimen with the best body and he lasted 13 years. I
played 15 years and I said, 'OK, that’s enough.' But 20 years? He’s got to put
his body to science." —Wendel Clark on Jarome Iginla's mix of skill and strength


34. RON HEXTALL

Philadelphia Flyers goalie Ron Hextall blocks a shot on goal against the New
York Rangers in a 1995 playoff game.

Seasons in NHL: 13 (1986-99)

Teams: Philadelphia Flyers, Quebec Nordiques, New York Islanders

Career games played: 608

Career fights: 17

Plus/minus: Not available

Stanley Cups won: 0


BOTTOM LINE: RON HEXTALL

Ron Hextall didn't mind contact.

Ron Hextall was an aggressive goalie who frequently came out of the crease to
play the puck. The extra exposure, of course, led to extra contact.

Hextall — the first netkeeper to score in the NHL — holds the dubious career
mark for penalty minutes by a goaltender with 584.

He was the only goalie to top 100 penalty minutes in a season, and did it three
times.


IN THEIR OWN WORDS: RON HEXTALL

Ron Hextall won 296 games in his NHL career.

"His collection at a summer home on Lake Wallenpaupack features more than a
dozen different designs. From the old-school, full-face masks of his midget
hockey days to the famous 'The Puck Stops Here' helmet he wore in Philadelphia
to the snarling bear face he sported on the Quebec Nordiques, the headgear spans
decades and stretches across eras." —Mike DeFabo, The Pittsburgh Post-Gazette


33. JOHN FERGUSON

Montreal Canadiens left wing John Ferguson in 1963.

Seasons in NHL: 8 (1963-71)

Teams: Montreal Canadiens

Career games played: 500

Career fights: 94

Plus/minus: 83

Stanley Cups: 5


BOTTOM LINE: JOHN FERGUSON

Are you ready for some old-time hockey?

John Ferguson got into a fight — and won it — just 12 seconds into his first NHL
game. The Canadiens enforcer skated on the left wing, amassing 145 goals and
1,214 penalty minutes in his career.

"Fergy" also was a two-time All-Star and scored the Stanley Cup-winning goal in
1969.

He briefly served as New York Rangers head coach and general manager, and was
the first head coach of the Winnipeg Jets.


IN THEIR OWN WORDS: JOHN FERGUSON

John Ferguson played his whole career with the Montreal Canadiens.

"There was no more passionate competitor, as a player, as a coach or as an
executive, than John Ferguson. He was tough, he wanted the best for his teams,
his teammates and his players, and his country, and would stop at nothing to try
to help them win." —NHL commissioner Gary Bettman


32. CHRIS CHELIOS

Chicago Blackhawks defenseman Chris Chelios, right, moves the puck against the
New Jersey Devils in 1991.

Seasons in NHL: 26 (1983-2010)

Teams: Montreal Canadiens, Chicago Blackhawks, Detroit Red Wings, Atlanta
Thrashers

Career games played: 1,651

Career fights: 103

Plus/minus: 351

Stanley Cups: 3


BOTTOM LINE: CHRIS CHELIOS

Chris Chelios, right, imposed a lot of beatings in his 26 seasons.

There is no doubting the toughness and durability of Chris Chelios, a seven-time
All-Star defenseman who won the Norris Trophy three times. He recorded 2,891
penalty minutes over 26 NHL seasons.

Chelios first won a Stanley Cup with the Canadiens in 1986. He hoisted the Cup
with the Red Wings in 2002 and — more than 20 years after his first win — again
in 2008.

When he retired at 48 after his final NHL season, with the Atlanta Thrashers in
2010, he was the second-oldest active player of all time.


IN THEIR OWN WORDS: CHRIS CHELIOS

Chris Chelios raised the Cup three times.

"The public perception of [Chris] Chelios was that he was one of the league's
most despised villains. The truth was Chelios was always among the NHL's most
respected players. Seemingly everyone who played with him told tales of his
leadership and aura." —NHL.com


31. BARCLAY PLAGER

Barclay Plager (5), center, works with teammates Don Awrey, left, and goalie
Bernie Parent to clear the puck during the 1974 NHL All-Star Game in Chicago.

Seasons in NHL: 10 (1967-1977)

Teams: St. Louis Blues

Career games played: 614

Career fights: 75

Plus/minus: 61

Stanley Cups: 0


BOTTOM LINE: BARCLAY PLAGER

Enough? I'll say when it's enough.

Barclay Plager anchored the St. Louis Blues' gritty defense in the late 1960s
and early '70s, making the Stanley Cup Final three times and earning All-Star
honors four times.

Plager, always willing to put his body on the line, suffered 15 broken noses
while accruing 1,115 penalty minutes over just 614 NHL games.


IN THEIR OWN WORDS: BARCLAY PLAGER

Barclay led by example.

"One of the most interesting moments in the Plager household came when young
Billy was still with the North Stars. A game between the Blues and the Stars was
being telecast throughout the United States and Canada, giving the nationwide
audience its first chance to see all three Plagers in action at the same time."
—GreatestHockeyLegends.com


30. STU GRIMSON

Anaheim Mighty Ducks enforcer Stu Grimson, left, fights with Florida Panthers
left wing Peter Worrell in 2000.

Seasons in NHL: 14 (1988-2002)

Teams: Calgary Flames, Chicago Blackhawks, Anaheim Mighty Ducks, Detroit Red
Wings, Hartford Whalers, Carolina Hurricanes, Los Angeles Kings, Nashville
Predators

Career games played: 729

Career fights: 393

Plus/minus: -41

Stanley Cups: 0


BOTTOM LINE: STU GRIMSON

Stu Grimson would fight anyone, anytime.

A 6-foot-6, 240-pound brawler, Stu Grimson was a fearsome enforcer with one of
hockey’s best nicknames: "The Grim Reaper."

The left wing scored 17 career goals while putting up 2,113 penalty minutes and
more than 300 fights.

Though his job was to mix it up on the ice, Grimson led the NHL’s Christian
Fellowship, and after concussions forced him to retire from hockey, he earned a
law degree and turned his fighting to the courtroom.


IN THEIR OWN WORDS: STU GRIMSON

Take that.

"His head feeling heavy, it turned out Dave Brown broke [Stu] Grimson’s orbital
bone in two places. Surgery that included the insertion of a 15-centimeter
stainless-steel pin followed. The pin actually protruded from Grimson for five
weeks as the bone healed before it was pulled out." —The Globe and Mail


29. PAT VERBEEK

New York Rangers right wing Pat Verbeek, left, slams into Pittsburgh Penguins
goalie Ken Wregget while driving toward the goal in a 1996 playoff game in
Pittsburgh.

Seasons in NHL: 20 (1982-2002)

Teams: New Jersey Devils, Hartford Whalers, New York Rangers, Dallas Stars,
Detroit Red Wings

Career games played: 1,424

Career fights: 78

Plus/minus: -46

Stanley Cups: 1


BOTTOM LINE: PAT VERBEEK

Pat Verbeek, right, was known as "The Little Ball of Hate."

At 5-foot-9, Pat Verbeek earned his nickname, "The Little Ball of Hate," with a
1,000-point career — scoring more than 500 goals and recording 2,905 penalty
minutes from the right wing.

His career almost was derailed when his left thumb was severed in a 1985 family
farming accident, but the digit was reattached and he didn’t miss any time.


IN THEIR OWN WORDS: PAT VERBEEK

Pat Verbeek played bigger than his 5-foot-9 frame.

"[Pat] Verbeek was less an agitator than he was just an overall pain, he wielded
his stick and elbows with ferocity each and every time he stepped onto the ice.
The 5-foot-9, 190-pounder made for his vertically challenged body with so much
mental toughness that his teammates and coach couldn't help but become
addicted." —NHL.com


28. LARRY ROBINSON

Larry Robinson is at the center of a bench-clearing brawl with the Philadelphia
Flyers in 1974, going to head-to-head with Dave Schultz.

Seasons in NHL: 20 (1972-1992)

Teams: Montreal Canadiens, Los Angeles Kings

Career games played: 1,384

Career fights: 37

Plus/minus: 730

Stanley Cups: 6


BOTTOM LINE: LARRY ROBINSON

And that's for good measure.

The dominant, 6-foot-4 defenseman was as tough as they come. He captured two
Norris Trophies, made six All-Star teams and holds an NHL-record plus-minus
rating of +730.

Known as "Big Bird," Larry Robinson won six Stanley Cups with the Canadiens and
is one of two NHL players that made the playoffs 20 consecutive seasons.

When Robinson won a Stanley Cup coaching the 1999-2000 New Jersey Devils, he
called it his "greatest day in hockey."


IN THEIR OWN WORDS: LARRY ROBINSON

The Canadiens retired Larry Robinson's No. 19 jersey in 2007.

"Surrounded by the likes of Serge Savard, Ken Dryden, Guy Lafleur, Guy Lapointe,
Jacques Lemaire, Bob Gainey and Steve Shutt, [Larry] Robinson was as powerful a
presence as there was in the League, a man whose hallmark was smart, rugged,
unyielding defense, and who was a potent offensive force, too." —NHL.com


27. BOBBY CLARKE

Philadelphia Flyers captain Bobby Clarke, left, holds the Stanley Cup with NHL
president Clarence Campbell in 1974.

Seasons in NHL: 15 (1969-84)

Teams: Philadelphia Flyers

Career games played: 1,144

Career fights: 41

Plus/minus: 506

Stanley Cups: 2


BOTTOM LINE: BOBBY CLARKE

Bobby Clarke, right, was a leader on the "Broad Street Bullies."

Bobby Clarke set the tone as center and captain of the brash Broad Street
Bullies in the 1970s, leading the Flyers to two Stanley Cup titles. One of the
great sports photos of all time shows a toothless Clarke holding the Cup in
1974.

But he wasn't just tough. The Flyers' all-time leader in games played, assists
and points won three MVPs and was an eight-time All-Star.

No stranger to pain, Clarke notched his 1,000th point against the Bruins in 1981
with fresh stitches in his face and blood on his sweater.

 


IN THEIR OWN WORDS: BOBBY CLARKE

Bobby Clarke was a leader of the "Broad Street Bullies."

"Picture a smallish pro hockey player — he's 5-foot-10 — with a big, wet mop of
curly hair atop his choirboy face. A huge smile lights up that face, a smile
made even larger by the wide gap where his top front teeth once were. His eyes
mischievously twinkle; he might even give you a wink. A trickle of blood streams
down the side of his face and splashes onto his distinctive orange and black
jersey decorated with a stylized 'P' and the number 16. On the left chest of
that jersey sits an oversized letter 'C.'" —NHL.com


26. TIM HORTON

New York Rangers defenseman Tim Horton in 1970 against the Boston Bruins at
Madison Square Garden.

Seasons in NHL: 24 (1949-1974)

Teams: Toronto Maple Leafs, New York Rangers, Pittsburgh Penguins, Buffalo
Sabres

Career games played: 1,446

Career fights: 23

Plus/minus: Not available

Stanley Cups: 4


BOTTOM LINE: TIM HORTON

Tim Horton, top, flips Dave Schultz on the ice during a fight.

Defenseman Tim Horton was known for employing a brutal bear hug during a fight.
He wore glasses off the ice, but the strongman found contact lenses
uncomfortable and didn’t use them during games.

The seven-time All-Star and Hall of Famer died at 44 while still an active
player with the Buffalo Sabres in what was likely a DUI crash.

Horton, who helped win four Stanley Cups with the Maple Leafs in the 1960s, may
be best known for co-founding the donut store chain that bears his name.


IN THEIR OWN WORDS: TIM HORTON

Tim Horton won four Stanley Cups.

"Tim Horton was called 'Superman' by goaltender Johnny Bower, who believed the
defenseman and longtime teammate with the Toronto Maple Leafs could lift a
filled 40-gallon oil drum. Another teammate, center Dave Keon, recalled that
Horton could throw around railroad ties 'like they were toothpicks.' Fellow
Toronto defenseman Bob Baun saw him barricade an intersection in Quebec as a
prank by lifting barrels of cement. Gordie Howe of the Detroit Red Wings, hardly
a weakling himself, called Horton 'the strongest player in hockey.'" —NHL.com


25. DALE HUNTER

Washington Capitals center Dale Hunter, right, looks to score on New York
Rangers goalie Mike Richter at the Capital Centre in 1990.

Seasons in NHL: 19 (1980-99)

Teams: Quebec Nordiques, Washington Capitals, Colorado Avalanche

Career games played: 1,407

Career fights: 270

Plus/minus: 101

Stanley Cups: 0


BOTTOM LINE: DALE HUNTER

Dale Hunter, left, fights for the puck with Jeff Beukeboom during a playoff game
in 1994.

Dale Hunter wreaked havoc as a powerful center and accrued 3,565 penalty
minutes.

"The Nuisance" — who notoriously separated the shoulder of Islanders star Pierre
Turgeon during a 1993 playoff game — was given the penalty box from the
demolished Capital Centre when the Caps retired his number.

He is the only player to score more than 1,000 points and record more than 3,000
penalty minutes in NHL history.


IN THEIR OWN WORDS: DALE HUNTER

Dale Hunter played 19 seasons in the NHL.

"For Hunter, hockey was a war on ice – not merely a game. He had the will to
win, and it was contagious among his teammates. If you happened to be wearing a
different colored jersey or sat on the opposite bench, make no mistake – you
were going to pay a price." —TheHockeyWriters.com


24. TED LINDSAY

Detroit Red Wings forward Ted Lindsay, left, battles with Montreal Canadiens
defenseman Bud Macpherson in a 1951 playoff game.

Seasons in NHL: 17 (1944-60, 1964-65)

Teams: Detroit Red Wings, Chicago Blackhawks

Career games played: 1,068

Career fights: 38

Plus/minus: Not available

Stanley Cups: 4


BOTTOM LINE: TED LINDSAY

They didn't call him "Terrible Ted" Lindsay for nothing.

"Terrible Ted" Lindsay was a ferocious forward. In his 17-year career, he posted
379 goals, 472 assists and a then-record 1,808 penalty minutes, winning four
Stanley Cups with the Red Wings and playing in 11 NHL All-Star Games.

He was stripped of his captain’s role and traded to Chicago for helping organize
the National Hockey League Players’ Association, but returned to Detroit for a
final season four years after he had retired.

In 2016, as he turned 90, Lindsay said he wouldn’t change a thing about his
hockey career, "unless I could be a little meaner."


IN THEIR OWN WORDS: TED LINDSAY

Ted Lindsay was a Detroit Red Wings legend.

"[Ted] Lindsay was known as a viciously tough hockey player on the ice, but a
wonderfully gracious person off the ice. He gained his nickname 'Terrible Ted'
because, in his day, he was a physical force. In fact, Lindsay was one of
hockey’s great enforcers and villains – if you weren’t a Red Wings fan."
—TheHockeyWriters.com


23. TERRY SAWCHUK

Terry Sawchuk bats a puck away in 1958.

Seasons in NHL: 21 (1949-70)

Teams: Detroit Red Wings, Toronto Maple Leafs, Boston Bruins, Los Angeles Kings,
New York Rangers

Career games played: 971

Career fights: 4

Plus/minus: Not available

Stanley Cups: 4


BOTTOM LINE: TERRY SAWCHUK

Terry Sawchuk was one of the greatest goalies of all time.

The dominant goalie of the 1950s, Terry Sawchuk was an 11-time All Star, largely
with the Detroit Red Wings.

He was the first goalie to record 100 shutouts and won three Stanley Cups with
the Red Wings and another with the Maple Leafs.

Sawchuk knew about playing through pain, working his way through a collapsed
lung, a broken instep, three elbow surgeries, ruptured discs and an
appendectomy. He also needed roughly 400 stitches in his face, including three
in his eye, over the course of his career.


IN THEIR OWN WORDS: TERRY SAWCHUK

Terry Sawchuk died at age 40 of a pulmonary embolism in 1970.

"The character of Terry Sawchuk is really complex. And he was complex at a time
when complexity in people was not really (understood). It was a time when people
were either good or bad, and I don’t think people were really like that. It was
incredible to have one of Canada’s massive heroes who had such turmoil and
sadness in his life and holes he just couldn’t fill." —Adriana Magas, the
director of "Goalie," a biopic movie about troubled Hall of Famer Terry Sawchuk


22. EDDIE SHORE

Boston Bruins defenseman Eddie Shore in 1929.

Seasons in NHL: 14 (1926-40)

Teams: Boston Bruins, New York Americans

Career games played: 550

Career fights: Not available

Plus/minus: Not available

Stanley Cups: 2


BOTTOM LINE: EDDIE SHORE

Eddie Shore, center, played 14 seasons in the NHL.

Many people consider the seven-time All Star and four-time NHL MVP to be the
first great defenseman. Between 1926 and 1940, Eddie Shore spent more than 13 of
his 14 NHL seasons with the Boston Bruins, who twice won the Stanley Cup with
him ( 1929, 1939) and retired the Hall of Famer’s No. 2.

How tough was Shore? He almost lost an ear in a fight during practice — and
watched a doctor sew it back on with a mirror. No anesthetic was administered.

On a more delicate note, Shore helped form the Ice Capades in 1940.


IN THEIR OWN WORDS: EDDIE SHORE

Eddie Shore won the Hart Trophy as the NHL's most valuable player four times,
the most of any defenseman.

"Eddie Shore was a Western Canadian cowboy who came to the game late and grew up
breaking wild stallions and hauling grain over 40 miles of dusty ranchland
before becoming the pugnacious poster person for an entire sport." —NHL.com


21. ZDENO CHARA

Boston Bruins defenseman Zdeno Chara during a 2018 game against the Toronto
Maple Leafs in Boston.

Seasons in NHL: 23 (1997-present)

Teams: New York Islanders, Ottawa Senators, Boston Bruins, Washington Capitals

Career games played: 1,608

Career fights: 86

Plus/minus: 293

Stanley Cups: 1


BOTTOM LINE: ZDENO CHARA

Zdeno Chara, right, is the tallest player in NHL history.

The tallest player ever to lace up his skates in the NHL, Zdeno Chara, at
6-foot-9, is known as an elite defenseman. His height means he has to play with
sticks two inches longer than regulations would allow, but it all translates
into a powerful slap shot.

In fact, the Bruins’ captain holds the NHL All-Star Game hardest shot record of
108.8 mph, which he set in 2012.

The Slovak Olympic hero also won the James Norris Memorial Trophy (for best
defenseman) in 2009.


IN THEIR OWN WORDS: ZDENO CHARA

Zdeno Chara started his NHL career with the New York Islanders.

"You’d just think NHL players would have picked up on it by now, because 24
years into his career, opponents are still testing their luck by fighting Zdeno
Chara. Just ask Yakov Trenin of the Nashville Predators. During a game against
the New York Islanders ... forward Trenin checked Sebastian Aho hard into the
boards, which for obvious reasons didn’t sit well with Chara. The duo dropped
the mitts and went at it in the first period, but Trenin came out of the fight
with his face a bloody mess." —Alexandra Francisco on NESN.com


20. MARK MESSIER

New York Rangers center Mark Messier, left, checks Tampa Bay Lightning
defenseman Bill Houlder into the boards during a 1995 game at Madison Square
Garden in New York.

Seasons in NHL: 25 (1979-2004)

Teams: Edmonton Oilers, New York Rangers, Vancouver Canucks

Career games played: 1,756

Career fights: 62

Plus/minus: 211

Stanley Cups: 6


BOTTOM LINE: MARK MESSIER

Mark Messier, right, delivered that three piece and soda.

The lefty center was a third-round draft pick who developed into one of the
greatest hockey players in history, a 15-time NHL All-Star and the only player
to captain two Stanley Cup winners.

He twice won the Hart Trophy as MVP, and "The Moose" became "The Messiah" in New
York after the Rangers ended their 54-year Stanley Cup drought in 1994.


IN THEIR OWN WORDS: MARK MESSIER

Mark Messier won six Stanley Cups.

"Throughout his career, for early-bird fans, [Mark] Messier's mere body language
during the pregame warmup was telling. His ramrod-straight posture, strong,
purposeful strides and forbidding visage, highlighted by laser-beam eyes, all
made for an intimidating presence." —NHL.com


19. BOBBY ORR

Boston Bruins defenseman Bobby Orr flies past Chicago Blackhawks goalie Tony
Esposito after flipping the puck into the net during a 1970 Stanley Cup playoff
game in Chicago.

Seasons in NHL: 12 (1966-79)

Teams: Boston Bruins, Chicago Blackhawks

Career games played: 657

Career fights: 53

Plus/minus: 582

Stanley Cups: 2


BOTTOM LINE: BOBBY ORR

Bobby Orr, left, was tough as they come. He has the scars to prove it.

The most common crossword puzzle answer in hockey, Orr won eight straight Norris
Trophies (best defenseman) and three straight Hart Trophies (league MVP). In
1970, he became the only defenseman to win the Art Ross Trophy (league’s leading
scorer) with 120 points, a feat he repeated in 1975.

Orr battled through numerous left knee injuries and more than a dozen surgeries
to take the ice, but as former teammate Darryl Sittler said, "Bobby Orr was
better on one leg than anybody else was on two." The star’s notable knee scars
were featured in a 2008 MasterCard commercial.


IN THEIR OWN WORDS: BOBBY ORR

"How good would [Bobby] Orr have been in the day of arthroscopic surgery, in a
time of modern medicine and advanced methods of rehabilitation, and if he hadn't
been forced to prematurely retire at age 30 when even walking on a flight of
stairs left him in excruciating pain?" —NHL.com


18. SCOTT STEVENS

New Jersey Devils captain Scott Stevens holds up the 1995 Stanley Cup at the
Meadowlands Arena in East Rutherford, N.J., after his team swept the Detroit Red
Wings to win the championship.

Seasons in NHL: 22 (1982-2004)

Teams: Washington Capitals, St. Louis Blues, New Jersey Devils

Career games played: 1,635

Career fights: 153

Plus/minus: 395

Stanley Cups: 3


BOTTOM LINE: SCOTT STEVENS

Scott Stevens, right, was a hard hitter.

The big-hitting 6-foot-2, 220-pound Scott Stevens embodied the defense-first
style the New Jersey Devils used to win three Stanley Cups in a nine-year span.
The Devils' longtime captain was known as "Captain Crunch" for his bone-shaking
body checks. "I don’t care who it is," Stevens said, "No one gets a free ride
out there."

Post-concussion syndrome coupled with the 2004-05 NHL lockout led to his
retirement after 1,635 games, then a record for games played by a defenseman. He
was the first Devils player to have his jersey retired.


IN THEIR OWN WORDS: SCOTT STEVENS

Scott Stevens had 153 fights in his NHL career.

"Scott Stevens can be considered one of the last of a breed of NHLer that
wreaked havoc on other players. During a time when checks were seemingly more
vicious than in today’s game, Stevens threw his share of hits that rattled
opposing players; some were injured, some were just angry, but there was never a
doubt that Stevens played a hard, physical game." —TheHockeyWriters.com


17. ROB BLAKE

San Jose Sharks defenseman Rob Blake, bottom, and goalie Evgeni Nabokov during a
2010 game in San Jose.

Seasons in NHL: 20 (1989-2010)

Teams: Los Angeles Kings, Colorado Avalanche, San Jose Sharks

Career games played: 1,270

Career fights: 33

Plus/minus: -4

Stanley Cups: 1


BOTTOM LINE: ROB BLAKE

Los Angeles King Rob Blake, left, battles for control of the puck with Toronto
Maple Leaf Jamie Macoun battle in a playoff game in 1993.

Defenseman Rob Blake grew up playing hockey on the family farm pond in Simcoe,
Ontario, Canada. And the former Kings and Avalanche captain delivered
bone-rattling open-ice checks and "butt checks" with the best of them.

He is one of 28 members of the "Triple Gold Club," having won Olympic gold, a
world championship and a Stanley Cup.


IN THEIR OWN WORDS: ROB BLAKE

Rob Blake won one Stanley Cup.

"Walk through the historic [Rob] Blake farmhouse, and there's little to no sign
this is where a future Hall of Fame hockey player was raised. The home was built
in the 1800s on a plot of land in Simcoe, a town near north of Lake Erie and
southwest of Hamilton in Southern Ontario. The dents in the front door where Rob
Blake and his brothers launched tennis balls to hone their slap shots in the
front hallway have been covered, a layer of history buried by coats of paint."
—Craig Custance, ESPN.com


16. GORDIE HOWE

Detroit Red Wings forward Gordie Howe is surrounded by teammates after scoring
his 544th goal to tie the NHL all-time record on Oct. 27, 1963, in Detroit.
Howe’s goal against the Montreal Canadiens equaled the record held by former
Canadiens star Maurice Richard.

Seasons in NHL: 26 (1946-71, 1979-80)

Teams: Detroit Red Wings, Hartford Whalers

Career games played: 1,767

Career fights: 30

Plus/minus: Records incomplete (160 from 1960-71, 1979-80)

Stanley Cups: 4


BOTTOM LINE: GORDIE HOWE

You couldn't keep Gordie Howe down for long.

"Mr. Hockey" wasn't just good.  The 23-time NHL All-Star and six-time MVP who
led the league in scoring six times also was tough. Gordie Howe was so tough
that they named a variation of a hat trick after him. The "Gordie Howe Hat
Trick" is earned by recording a goal, an assist and a fight in the same game.

After 25 years with the Red Wings and a brief stint playing with his sons for
the Houston Aeros of the World Hockey Association, Howe came back for a final
season with the Hartford Whalers and retired in 1980 at 52, making this tough,
durable superstar the only player to lace up NHL skates in five different
decades.


IN THEIR OWN WORDS: GORDIE HOWE

Gordie Howe could do it all on the ice.

"Known as 'Mr. Hockey,' [Gordie] Howe was considered one of the toughest players
in the NHL during his career. Although he wasn’t much of a fighter—although he
could dish out a hard hit when he needed to—Howe made his presence known on the
ice with a combination of physical strength, scoring ability, true grit, and
supreme durability." —Men's Journal


15. CHRIS PRONGER

Philadelphia Flyers defenseman Chris Pronger plays against the Chicago
Blackhawks in Game 5 of the 2010 Stanley Cup Final in Chicago.

Seasons in NHL: 18 (1993-2012)

Teams: Hartford Whalers, St. Louis Blues, Edmonton Oilers, Anaheim Ducks,
Philadelphia Flyers

Career games played: 1,167

Career fights: 31

Plus/minus: 183

Stanley Cups: 1


BOTTOM LINE: CHRIS PRONGER

Chris Pronger, left, gives Zach Parise the business.

A captain for three different teams, the 6-foot-6 defenseman had his best season
in 2000 when he won the Norris and Hart trophies. Chris Pronger also was a
two-time Olympic gold medalist for Canada and became a member of the Triple Gold
Club in 2007 when the Ducks won their first Stanley Cup.

He stopped playing early in his 18th season, suffering post-concussion syndrome
from years of big hitting and a painful eye injury when he was hit by the blade
of Mikhail Grabovski’s stick in 2011. Pronger was elected to the Hall of Fame in
2015, before he actually retired due to contract/salary-cap complications.


IN THEIR OWN WORDS: CHRIS PRONGER

Chris Pronger was the second overall pick in the 1993 NHL draft.

"He could quarterback a power play. He could make a first pass out of the zone
as efficiently as any defenseman who ever played. He was a powerful skater who
could easily join the rush and seemingly had enough stamina to play all night
long." —NHL.com


14. JEFF BEUKEBOOM

New York Rangers defenseman Jeff Beukeboom, right, uses his stick to stop
Washington Capitals center Dale Hunter during a 1994 game at Madison Square
Garden.

Seasons in NHL: 13 (1986-99)

Teams: Edmonton Oilers, New York Rangers

Career games played: 804

Career fights: 134

Plus/minus: 115

Stanley Cups: 4


BOTTOM LINE: JEFF BEUKEBOOM

New York Ranger Jeff Beukeboom knocks New Jersey Devil Pat Conacher to the ice
during a playoff game in 1992.

A hard-hitting true defenseman who was always willing to fight and whose
powerful checks cleared the crease, Jeff Beukeboom was a key component of four
Stanley Cup champions.

But concussions took their toll — including one suffered after a wicked sucker
punch to the back of the head from Matt Johnson of the Los Angeles Kings in 1998
— and Beukeboom retired after 13 seasons in the NHL.


IN THEIR OWN WORDS: JEFF BEUKEBOOM

Jeff Beukeboom played in 804 career games.

"His name itself produced shivers up and down the spine of many opponents and
for good reason. 'BOOK, BOOK,' as The Garden Faithful would shout from the
rafters, was big, strong and Gibralter-like on the 1994 Stanley Cup-winning
Rangers." —MSGnetworks.com


13. DEREK BOOGAARD

New York Rangers left wing Derek Boogaard, right, fights Philadelphia Flyers
Jody Shelley during a 2010 game in Philadelphia.

Seasons in NHL: 6 (2005-11)

Teams: Minnesota Wild, New York Rangers

Career games played: 277

Career fights: 70

Plus/minus: -12

Stanley Cups: 0


BOTTOM LINE: DEREK BOOGAARD

Derek Boogaard, right, fights Jody Shelley.

At 6-foot-7 and a listed playing weight of 265 pounds, Derek Boogaard was one of
the NHL’s biggest, fiercest fighters.

He once broke Todd Fedoruk’s cheekbone so severely that Fedoruk needed a metal
plate and reconstructive surgery, though the two later became teammates and
friends.

Injuries led the "Boogeyman" to painkillers and a tragic drug overdose that
caused his death while recovering from a concussion in 2011.


IN THEIR OWN WORDS: DEREK BOOGAARD

Derek Boogaard, right, had heavy hands.

"[Derek] Boogaard had chronic traumatic encephalopathy, commonly known as CTE, a
close relative of Alzheimer’s disease. It is believed to be caused by repeated
blows to the head. It can be diagnosed only posthumously, but scientists say it
shows itself in symptoms like memory loss, impulsiveness, mood swings, even
addiction." —John Branch in The New York Times


12. CAM NEELY

Los Angeles King Marty McSorley, right, and Boston Bruin Cam Neely rough it up
during a 1991 game at the Boston Garden.

Seasons in NHL: 13 (1983-96)

Teams: Vancouver Canucks, Boston Bruins

Career games played: 726

Career fights: 100

Plus/minus: 83

Stanley Cups: 0


BOTTOM LINE: CAM NEELY

Cam Neely and Rick Tocchet exchange pleasantries.

"Bam-Bam Cam" was wicked with his fists, his devastating checks and an
incredibly accurate shot. The explosive right wing topped 50 goals in three
different seasons, and he won the Bill Masterton Trophy (for perseverance and
dedication to hockey) in 1994.

How tough was Neely? During a game against the Devils in 1994, the tip of his
pinky was severed through his glove early in the second period. He went in for
stitches and returned before the end of the period.


IN THEIR OWN WORDS: CAM NEELY

Cam Neely had 694 career points.

"I don’t know if when you say 'toughness' — I don’t think you’re necessarily
talking about fighting, just overall intimidation is something you talk about
2011, you had that not only on the back end, but you had that in the forward
group, too. That’s an area that we’ve discussed, if something becomes available
that we think could not only help you play but also could bring that element, I
don’t think we would be opposed to it, for sure." —Cam Neely, on NESN.com,
talking about the toughness of the 2021-22 Boston Bruins


11. BOB PROBERT

Chicago Blackhawks left wing Bob Probert, left, and Boston Bruins left wing
Andrei Nazarov mix it up along the boards during a 2001 fight in Chicago.

Seasons in NHL: 16 (1985-2002)

Teams: Detroit Red Wings, Chicago Blackhawks

Career games played: 935

Career fights: 304

Plus/minus: -31

Stanley Cups: 0


BOTTOM LINE: BOB PROBERT

Ready or not, Ken Belanger. Here comes the Bob Probert special.

Bob Probert was a tough-guy left wing known as one of Detroit’s "Bruise
Brothers" in the late 1980s and early '90s, notably for multiple tilts with
Wendel Clark, enforcer Tie Domi and Stu Grimson.

In 1999, Probert ended a fight with the Avalanche’s Scott Parker in just 11
seconds, throwing four quick, powerful right hands before Parker could even get
off a punch.

When Probert retired, he had recorded more than 3,300 penalty minutes, good for
fourth on the NHL’s all-time list.


IN THEIR OWN WORDS: BOB PROBERT

A little blood never hurt Bob Probert.

"Digging into this steely player’s past sheds helps to understand what fueled
his on-the-ice aggression. [Bob] Probert’s father, a policeman, was a heavy
drinker and a physically abusive presence. You could say he was an old school,
'hands on' cop. Not only did he not make life easy for Bob growing up, but his
behavior transformed his son into a fearless fighter, both in and out of the
rink." —Decider.com


10. BRENDAN SHANAHAN

New York Rangers left wing Brendan Shanahan, left, checks New York Islanders
defenseman Tom Poti during a 2007 game at Madison Square Garden.

Seasons in NHL: 21 (1987-2009)

Teams: New Jersey Devils, St. Louis Blues, Hartford Whalers, Detroit Red Wings,
New York Rangers

Career games played: 1,524

Career fights: 128

Plus/minus: 151

Stanley Cups: 3


BOTTOM LINE: BRENDAN SHANAHAN

Just a good old-fashioned hockey fight with New Jersey Devil Brendan Shanahan,
right, and Philadelphia Flyer Rick Tocchet.

The second overall pick in the 1987 NHL draft, Brendan Shanahan netted more than
650 goals and amassed more than 2,000 penalty minutes.

The left wing recorded an astounding 17 Gordie Howe hat tricks, and is a member
of the Triple Gold Club.

And while he was always willing to drop the gloves, a 2007 accident led to his
worst injury. Shanahan, headed for the bench, collided with Mike Knuble, was
knocked unconscious for 10 minutes and left the ice on a stretcher.


IN THEIR OWN WORDS: BRENDAN SHANAHAN

Brendan Shanahan was inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 2013.

"If you needed a big goal, he could deliver that, either through skill or the
strength that allowed him to battle in the dirty areas around the net. If
someone was taking liberties with his teammates and required straightening out,
[Mike] Shanahan could handle that as well." —NHL.com


9. TONY TWIST

Tony Twist, right, fights Francois Leroux.

Seasons in NHL: 10 (1989-99)

Teams: St. Louis Blues, Quebec Nordiques

Career games played: 445

Career fights: 137

Plus/minus: -23

Stanley Cups: 0


BOTTOM LINE: TONY TWIST

This is gonna hurt you more than it hurts me.

Tony Twist’s reputation alone created lots of space on the ice for Brett Hull
and Geoff Courtnall. The enforcer’s signature fight move was to grab with his
left and hammer away with his helmet-shattering right hand.

"I want to end the fight as soon as possible," he said.

He broke Rob Ray’s orbital with a series of big, hard rights in 1995.

A motorcycle accident ended Twist's hockey career early, but he profited again
from his pugilistic prowess when he settled a lawsuit with Spawn comic book
creator Todd McFarlane for $5 million after McFarlane named a mob enforcer
character Antonio (Tony Twist) Twistelli.


IN THEIR OWN WORDS: TONY TWIST

Tony Twist had a special skill.

"Although the nicest thing one can say about [Tony] Twist's stickhandling is
that he does not break the puck, it would be inaccurate to describe him as
unskilled. It takes a special talent to stand on skates and beat someone
senseless, and no one does it better than the St. Louis Blues left wing."
—Sports Illustrated


8. DAVE SCHULTZ

A linesman restrains Philadelphia Flyers enforcer Dave Schultz in 1975 as he
tries to continue a fight that had been halted.

Seasons in NHL: 10 (1971-80)

Teams: Philadelphia Flyers, Los Angeles Kings, Pittsburgh Penguins, Buffalo
Sabres

Career games played: 535

Career fights: 197

Plus/minus: 41

Stanley Cups: 2


BOTTOM LINE: DAVE SCHULTZ

It ain't a rumble without Dave Schultz.

"The Hammer" was the big enforcer for Philadelphia’s Stanley Cup champion "Broad
Street Bullies" in the early 1970s.

The left wing with the signature mustache holds the NHL single-season record for
penalty minutes, with 472 during the 1974-75 season. (His mustache also was
voted “Best Mustache in the History of Philadelphia Sports in 2013.)

After Schultz started wrapping his hands like a boxer to protect them during
on-ice bouts, the NHL banned the practice with what became known as the "Schultz
Rule."


IN THEIR OWN WORDS: DAVE SCHULTZ

Dave Schultz brought the pain.

"During a presentation called 'Put Bullying On Ice,' [Dave] Schultz told the
students that bullying others is not acceptable in any facet of life, especially
in the classroom. He also revealed that the baddest of the Broad Street Bullies
actually despises bullies, and was bullied himself as a young man growing up in
the small Canadian town of Waldheim, Saskatchewan." —Keith Groller, The Morning
Call


7. DAVE "TIGER" WILLIAMS

Referees separate Philadelphia Flyers defenseman Andre DuPont, left, and Toronto
Maple Leafs left wing Dave Williams during a 1977 playoff game in Philadelphia.

Seasons in NHL: 14 (1974-88)

Teams: Toronto Maple Leafs, Vancouver Canucks, Detroit Red Wings, Los Angeles
Kings, Hartford Whalers

Career games played: 962

Career fights: 327

Plus/minus: -41

Stanley Cups: 0


BOTTOM LINE: DAVE "TIGER" WILLIAMS

Dave Williams fights with Dave Kelly.

The NHL’s career leader with 3,966 penalty minutes was a fighter who could
score, netting 241 goals. And he often celebrated by mounting his stick and
riding it down the ice.

Nicknamed "Tiger" as a 5-year-old hockey player in Saskatchewan, Williams is a
staple of classic hockey brawl highlights, especially his long bout with Flyers
enforcer Dave Schultz after Schultz took offense to Tiger slashing Flyers star
Bobby Clarke.

After hockey, Williams co-wrote a cookbook called "Done Like Dinner: Tiger in
the Kitchen."


IN THEIR OWN WORDS: DAVE "TIGER" WILLIAMS

Dave Williams was nicknamed Tiger for good reason.

"He just looks like someone you wouldn’t want to mess around with under any
circumstances. You mess with the Tiger, you get the claws. I’m not sure if
anyone ever said that about Dave 'Tiger' Williams but it’s a pretty accurate
statement about the fiery temper and brute force of Tiger Williams. Unlike
[Rick] Rypien, Tiger wasn’t the most fundamentally sound fighter. While Rypien
used boxing techniques to win his fights, Tiger was just tougher than anybody on
the ice." —The Canuck Way


6. MARTY MCSORLEY

Los Angeles King Marty McSorley, left, squares off with Chicago Blackhawk Stu
Grimson during a 1993 fight.

Seasons in NHL: 17 (1983-2000)

Teams: Pittsburgh Penguins, Edmonton Oilers, Los Angeles Kings, New York
Rangers, San Jose Sharks, Boston Bruins

Career games played: 961

Career fights: 278

Plus/minus: -14

Stanley Cups: 2


BOTTOM LINE: MARTY MCSORLEY

Marty McSorley, right, and Cam Neely rough it up in 1991.

"Wayne Gretzky’s Bodyguard" with the Oilers and the Kings, Marty McSorely had an
assist when Gretzky broke Gordie Howe’s all-time scoring record.

But the noted enforcer’s career ended as a Boston Bruin in February 2000 with
about 4 seconds left in a game against the Vancouver Canucks, when he slammed
Donald Brashear in the head with his stick, leaving Brashear unconscious on the
ice with a severe concussion.

McSorely was found guilty of assault in a British Columbia court and sentenced
to 18 months probation.


IN THEIR OWN WORDS: MARTY MCSORLEY

Marty McSorley started his NHL career with the Pittsburgh Penguins.

"This moment was so disgraceful that it ended Marty McSorley's career. His hit
on Donald Brashear even led to criminal charges. When all was said and done,
McSorley was sentenced to 18 months probation for assault with a weapon. He was
also suspended for one year by the NHL, which led to the end of McSorley's
career." —Bleacher Report, The Most Disgraceful Moments in NHL History


5. DONALD BRASHEAR

Washington Capitals left wing Donald Brashear, left, throws a punch at New York
Rangers right wing Colton Orr in a 2009 game at Madison Square Garden in New
York.

Seasons in NHL: 17 (1993-2010)

Teams: Montreal Canadiens, Vancouver Canucks, Philadelphia Flyers, Washington
Capitals, New York Rangers

Career games played: 1,025

Career fights: 277

Plus/minus: -93

Stanley Cups: 0


BOTTOM LINE: DONALD BRASHEAR

You look hungry. How about a knuckle sandwich?

Donald Brashear overcame a rough start in life to become one of the NHL’s most
feared enforcers. Born in Indiana before moving to Quebec with his mother and
stepfather, he suffered horrific child abuse in both his first two homes.

It was in a Canadian foster home that he started playing hockey, at age 8. His
prowess with his fists showed during the 2004-05 lockout, where he went 2-1 as a
pro boxer.

After retiring from hockey, he made one appearance in MMA fighting, registering
a 21-second TKO of Mathieu Bergeron in 2011.


IN THEIR OWN WORDS: DONALD BRASHEAR

Donald Brashear played in 1,025 career NHL games.

"The sun rose on another cocaine-fuelled night and Donald Brashear could feel
the high falling. He just needed to get inside to take another hit. He jostled
the keys in the lock of his apartment, twisting and turning as hard as he could,
but the door wouldn’t move. The landlord had warned him that he’d take action.
He wanted Brashear gone — and now he’d changed the locks." —Dan Robson, in The
Athletic, on Donald Brashear's battle with drug addiction 


4. ROB RAY

Buffalo Sabre Rob Ray, right, and Atlanta Thrasher Matt Johnson fight in a 1999
game at Philips Arena in Atlanta.

Seasons in NHL: 15 (1989-2004)

Teams: Buffalo Sabres, Ottawa Senators

Career games played: 900

Career fights: 294

Plus/minus: -38

Stanley Cups: 0


BOTTOM LINE: ROB RAY

Buffalo Sabres right wing Rob Ray, No. 32, introduces Nashville Predators
defenseman Marc Moro to his fists.

Rob Ray was a right wing and a brawler who liked to shed his jersey and pads to
make it tougher for an opponent to hold him. That tactic led to the NHL’s "Rob
Ray Rule," which levied a game misconduct penalty against any player that lost
his sweater in a fight.

Ray, who finished his career with more than 3,200 penalty minutes, scored a goal
in both his first and last shifts on the ice.


IN THEIR OWN WORDS: ROB RAY

Rob Ray loved to mix it up.

"Rob Ray was known as one of the NHL’s toughest players of the 1990s. During his
thirteen seasons with the Buffalo Sabres, he twice lead the league in time spent
in the penalty box. Ray was known for his jersey-off fighting style, which
eventually led to the 'Rob Ray Rule' banning that practice. In "Rayzor’s Edge,"
Ray shares many humorous and insightful stories from his Sabres career."
—BarnesandNoble.com


3. WENDEL CLARK

Toronto Maple Leaf Wendel Clark, second from right, raises his stick over his
head as he is called for slashing in a 1994 game against the Chicago Blackhawks.

Seasons in NHL: 15 (1985-2000)

Teams: Toronto Maple Leafs, Quebec Nordiques, New York Islanders, Tampa Bay
Lightning, Detroit Red Wings, Chicago Blackhawks

Career games played: 793

Career fights: 155

Plus/minus: -130

Stanley Cups: 0


BOTTOM LINE: WENDEL CLARK

Toronto Maple Leaf Wendel Clark to Chicago Blackhawk Gary Suter: You better
check yourself.

The first overall pick in the 1985 NHL draft, Wendel Clark was a passionate
player and the fighting heart of the Maple Leafs for years.

The Toronto captain played left wing and defenseman and frequently brought blood
to the ice.

In the 1993 conference finals, he squared off for a career-highlight fight with
Marty McSorley after McSorley decked Leafs star Doug Gilmour.


IN THEIR OWN WORDS: WENDEL CLARK

Wendel Clark scored 330 career goals.

"It was more difficult because of the old reporters that were there at the time.
I did five days of questions. For five days, I had no answer for why I wasn’t
fighting or trying to change the game. As an individual, and as a team, we had
to take a lot of crow from the media. They were expecting something because of
the lineup we had built. We had a tough lineup, and we weren’t doing anything to
change the style. Detroit was known as the finesse guys. They had the skill. But
we stuck to Burnsy’s [head coach Pat Burns] game plan, and come Game 7 we won.
So, in the big picture, Burnsy was right." —Wendel Clark on winning a 1993
first-round playoff series against the Detroit Red Wings


2. MAURICE RICHARD

Montreal Canadiens forward Maurice "Rocket" Richard gets ready to fire a goal
past Chicago Blackhawks goalie Al Rollins during the 1954 NHL season opener.

Seasons in NHL: 18 (1942-60)

Teams: Montreal Canadiens

Career games played: 978

Career fights: 29

Plus/minus: Not available

Stanley Cups: 8


BOTTOM LINE: MAURICE RICHARD

Maurice "Rocket" Richard was no choirboy.

"Rocket" was the first player to score 50 goals in a season and retired in 1960
as the all-time leader with 544 goals.

His fight with the Boston Bruins’ Hal Laycoe (Laycoe high-sticked Richard in the
face before Richard broke a stick over Laycoe’s back) led to a season-ending
suspension in 1955.

Richard was a hero for suffering French-Canadians, and angry fans rioted at the
Montreal Forum in the first game after his suspension, spilling into the
streets. The "Richard Riot" caused tens of thousands of dollars in damages and
led to 100 arrests.


IN THEIR OWN WORDS: MAURICE RICHARD

Maurice Richard won eight Stanley Cups.

"He was the most intense athlete the game has seen. He was everything that
personified greatness. [Maurice] Richard's eye-snapping career numbers don't
begin to describe what he meant to hockey in general and the Canadiens in
particular. Winning at any cost was what he was all about. He was prepared to
pay the price for every goal he scored, and no price was too high." —NHL.com


1. TIE DOMI

New York Rangers enforcer Tie Domi, right, prepares to fight New York Islanders
left wing Ken Baumgartner in 1991.

Seasons in NHL: 16 (1989-2006)

Teams: Toronto Maple Leafs, New York Rangers, Winnipeg Jets

Career games played: 1,020

Career fights: 339

Plus/minus: -54

Stanley Cups: 0


BOTTOM LINE: TIE DOMI

Tie Domi vs. Bob Probert. Madison Square Garden. Dec. 2, 1992. Instant classic.

Tie Domi got into a fight on his first NHL shift, setting the stage for a career
that would see him become the best-known brawler in the game. “That was my job
... to protect my teammates,” he said.

His most famous blows included a sucker-punch knockout of Rangers defenseman Ulf
Samuelsson in 1995 after Samuelsson repeatedly called him a "dummy," and a
vicious knockout elbow to the head of Devils defenseman Scott Niedermayer during
the 2001 Eastern Conference semis.

Domi even got into a fight while in the penalty box (where he spent 3,515
minutes of his hockey career) when he sprayed a heckling Flyers fan with his
water bottle and a second fan tried to scale the glass. The glass gave way, and
the fan fell into the box with Domi, who promptly punched him several times.


IN THEIR OWN WORDS: TIE DOMI

You would not like Tie Domi when he's mad.

"On a recent podcast hosted by former enforcer Cam Janssen and reporter Andy
Strickland, Tie Domi dished on his playing days including his epic battles
against [Bob] Probert. However, when Scott Stevens came up, he unloaded and
called him a phony tough guy. He specifically highlighted how he would target
guys for hits but never answered the bell for it. Domi even highlighted the
infamous 1992 brawl in the playoffs where Stevens hugged Domi and would not let
go to fight." —ForeverBlueshirts.com