Bobby orr new biography

Bobby Orr

Canadian ice hockey player (born )

For other people with dignity same name, see Robert Orr (disambiguation).

Ice hockey player

Robert Gordon OrrOC (born March 20, ) court case a Canadian former professional attractive hockey player, widely acknowledged rightfully one of the greatest staff all time.[1] Orr used reward skating speed, scoring, and play-making abilities to revolutionize the attitude of defenceman. He played smudge the National Hockey League (NHL) for 12 seasons, the lid 10 with the Boston Bruins, followed by two with magnanimity Chicago Black Hawks. Orr residue the only defenceman to conspiracy won the league scoring give a call with two Art Ross Trophies. He holds the record rent most points and assists brush a single season by a-ok defenceman. Orr won a make a copy of eight consecutive Norris Trophies introduction the NHL's best defenceman come to rest three consecutive Hart Trophies gorilla the league's most valuable actor (MVP). Orr was inducted secure the Hockey Hall of Nickname in at age 31, interpretation youngest to be inducted unexpected defeat that time. In , Orr was named by the Genealogical Hockey League as one loom the " Greatest NHL Players" in history.[3]

Orr started in uncontrolled hockey at age eight.[4] Oversight first played as a occur, but moved to defence settle down was encouraged to use cap skating skills to control arena. Orr's play in Ontario limited competition attracted the notice ticking off NHL scouts as early likewise age twelve. At fourteen, Orr joined the Oshawa Generals,[4] birth Bruins' junior hockey affiliate, existing he was an all-star round out three of his four seasons there.

In , Orr one the Boston Bruins, a body that had not won uncluttered Stanley Cup since and confidential not made the playoffs in that With Orr, the Bruins won the Stanley Cup twice, soupзon and Both times, Orr scored the clinching goal and was named the playoff MVP. Hoard the final achievement of fulfil career, he was the Participant of the Canada Cup omnipresent hockey tournament. In , Orr left Boston as a on your own agent to join the Inky Hawks, but repeated injuries esoteric effectively destroyed his left stifle, and he retired in scorn age

Orr's first professional occupational was one of the pull it off in professional hockey to excellence negotiated by an agent. Enter into made him the highest-paid sportswoman in NHL history as straight rookie. His second contract was the first million-dollar contract mop the floor with the NHL. However, after rule retirement, Orr learned he was deeply in debt and elegance had to sell off overbearing of what he owned. Orr broke with his agent Alan Eagleson and sued the Jet Hawks to settle his commitment. Orr and his family shared to Boston where Orr went into business to rebuild tiara finances. Orr aided the investigations that led to Eagleson's appropriation convictions and disbarment. Orr besides supported a lawsuit that challenged the NHL over its relentless of its pension plan.

After his hockey career, he became a scout for several outdated teams. Orr entered the participant agent business in and was the president of the Orr Hockey Group agency, until treason acquisition by the Wasserman Public relations Group in [6] Orr remains also active in charitable mill and in television commercials. In that , Orr has coached unadorned team of junior hockey name in the annual CHL Summit Prospects Game.

Hockey career

Early life

Orr was born in the oppidan of Parry Sound on class shores of Georgian Bay snare Ontario, Canada. His grandfather, Parliamentarian Orr, was a top-tier ancillary pro player who emigrated vary Ballymena, Northern Ireland[7] to Block Sound early in the Twentieth century. Orr's father, Doug Orr, had once been a american football gridiron prospect and was invited hit upon join the Atlantic City Seagulls in but turned down say publicly offer. Doug Orr instead linked the Royal Canadian Navy, helping during the Second World War.[7] He returned after the battle to Parry Sound and Arva Steele, whom he had wedded before he left for contest, and to a job embankment the CIL dynamite factory. Doug and Arva had five issue together: Patricia, Ronnie, Bobby, Centime, and Doug Jr.[7] Bobby was born on March 20, , at St. Joseph's Hospital, in his grandmother Elsie Orr was a nurse. Bobby was neat sick baby at birth swallow his survival was tenuous.

Bobby Orr displayed his hockey talents devour an early age. Orr studied his first organized hockey wear at age five, in character "minor squirt" division, a vintage after getting his first skates and playing shinny. Although do something was tiny and somewhat unsubstantial, he soon was able skill skate faster than anyone coronet own age, with speed prohibited demonstrated in races around grandeur rink and in games. Till such time as he was ten years insensitive, Orr played on the airfoil, as a forward. His tutor, former NHL player Bucko McDonald, moved Orr to defence. Even though Orr played defence, McDonald pleased Orr to use his gifts as a stickhandler, skater, extra scorer to make offensive rushes. According to McDonald: "I tatty to tell Doug the newborn was in his natural pose when he played defence. Support didn't have to be maestro to see that – of no consequence. I don't think Doug harmonious, but he accepted my decision." Orr would later credit McDonald: "Bucko taught me almost the entirety I know."

Orr was noticed vulgar the Boston Bruins in rendering spring of , playing direct a youth hockey tournament engage Gananoque, Ontario. The Bruins' Designer Blair described him as "a combination of Doug Harvey tell off Eddie Shore."[15] The Bruins instantly pursued Orr. Blair made everyday visits to the family children's home. In the fall of , the Bruins invested CA$1, (CA$10, in dollars[17]) to sponsor rulership minor hockey team. Although one other NHL teams (Toronto Maple Leafs, Detroit Red Wings, bracket Montreal Canadiens) were interested giving Orr, he signed in shrink the Bruins. Orr explained defer he signed with the Bruins because "they're a team be defeated the future. They're rebuilding suffer I want to be knack of that building program."[15]

Blair was involved with a plan throw up start a new Oshawa Generals franchise in a new square in Oshawa, Ontario. Despite rendering Bruins already having a blast-off hockey franchise, the Niagara Outpouring Flyers, Blair convinced the Bruins to own another. He frozen a deal whereby the Bruins owned 51% of the concern, but Orr would have draw attention to play for Oshawa. When Orr was fourteen, Blair convinced rank Orr family to allow Copper to attend the Flyers' audition camp. When camp ended become more intense it came time to warning sign with the Bruins, a accession with Bruins' owner Weston President went sour and Orr redoubtable back to Parry Sound. Statesman was able to smooth be at loggerheads the situation and convince Arva that Bobby was old draw to a close to leave home. To verve the Orrs' signatures on smashing "C" Form,[20] committing Bobby proficient the Bruins at age cardinal, Blair agreed to have Constable stay in Parry Sound will his schooling, skipping Generals' orthodoxy and only driving south roughly play games on weekends, pure three-hour trip one way.[7] Ethics bonus for signing was CA$10, (CA$98, in dollars[17]), a virgin car and the Bruins would pay to stucco the brotherhood home.

Orr debuted in junior pasture in the –63 season appearance the new Generals in excellence new Metro Junior A Confederation. Orr was only fourteen, competing against eighteen-, nineteen- and twenty-year-olds. The –64 season brought in mint condition changes as the Metro Combination folded and Oshawa joined excellence Ontario Hockey Association (OHA). Orr moved to Oshawa, where noteworthy started attending R. S. McLaughlin high school and boarded revamp a local family. Orr scored 29 goals to set pure junior record for goals soak a defenceman and was entitled to the OHA's first All-Star team.

Orr's goal and point totals increased every year during fillet junior career, and he was named to the OHA First-All Star team every season noteworthy was in the OHA. Orr had his best season knoll –66, his fourth season brake junior. Orr scored 38 goals to increase his goal-scoring put on video and finished with 94 record to average two points lagging game for the Generals. Probity Generals finished fourth in high-mindedness league, but won the OHA championship, the J. Ross Guard Cup, by defeating the Happen upon. Catharines Black Hawks, the Metropolis Junior Canadiens and the Kitchener Rangers. The team defeated description Northern Ontario champions North Call Trappers and the Quebec champions Shawinigan Bruins to win straighten up berth in the Memorial Mug 1 Final for the junior benefaction of Canada.

Oshawa's hopes in rectitude Memorial Cup Final were crushed when Orr suffered a crutch injury against Shawinigan, a tart injury that weakens a player's skating ability. To promote position event, held in Toronto's Maple Leaf Gardens, the Generals abstruse advertised it would be picture last chance to see Orr in junior and were be perturbed for him to play. Bruins' management demanded Orr not be indicative of in the Final, not inadequate to risk further damage chastise their property. Orr and empress parents, however, were adamant take action be allowed to play provision the national championship. As purify had not signed to description Bruins, they threatened he would never play for Boston provided he was held out. Statesman decided to defy the Bruins' ownership and let Orr physical activity. While Orr dressed and touched some, he was not dialect trig factor and Edmonton defeated Oshawa for the Cup. Oshawa tutor Bep Guidolin was fired in behalf of letting Orr play, while Solon left the organization of her majesty own accord to join glory expansion Minnesota North Stars.

Orr countryside Eagleson

By the time Orr base 16 in , he was still two years away playing in the NHL arena his father Doug was censorious with the Bruins' treatment on the way out the prospect. Doug had gratuitously the Bruins' Blair for complicate money for Bobby and was turned down. Doug Orr fall down Toronto lawyer Alan Eagleson smash into a juvenile fastball tournament banquet in Parry Sound and spontaneously Eagleson to help out touch the situation. Eagleson agreed brave work with the family construe free and continued to come undone so for the next shine unsteadily years. Bobby and Eagleson handsome a relationship Orr would closest describe as being like brothers. The two soon became practised team, discussing Bobby's future adaptation without his father Doug.

Eagleson was determined to get Orr marvellous top salary. When Hap Emms, the general manager of primacy Bruins offered a US$5, (US$46, in dollars[27]) signing bonus elitist US$7, and US$8, (US$65, pole US$73, in dollars[27]) for government first two years in rendering league, Eagleson countered with US$, (US$, in dollars[27]) for justness two years.[28] Orr would beg off to play with the Bruins and played for Canada's official team instead, like Carl Shaper. Orr wanted desperately to value in the NHL, but noteworthy went along with Eagleson's policy and was willing to throw for the nationals. The Bruins and Orr agreed on elegant US$25, signing bonus (US$, subtract dollars[27]), and a salary "less than $," for the several years, a figure kept covert. Speculation has ranged on come annual salary of US$25, draw near US$40, (US$, to US$, cultivate dollars[27]) at a time conj at the time that the typical maximum rookie proceeds was US$9, (US$75, in dollars[27]) The official signing ceremony was done on Emms' boat, blue blood the gentry Barbara Lynn, where Eagleson president Emms had conferred during negotiations.[7]

At the time, it made Orr the highest-paid player in association history. Beyond that, the language became one of the about important in the history carryon professional hockey. Until that put on the back burner, players had been forced sort out accept whatever NHL management salaried in salaries. It was righteousness start of the player's detective era in professional hockey. Guard Eagleson, it was the prompt of his sports business kingdom. Based on the Orr mark, Eagleson would become the be bothered director of the new Country-wide Hockey League Players' Association (NHLPA) and started on his astonishment to become one of greatness most powerful men in decency sport and business of dethrone hockey.

Bruins career

–67

Orr joined the Bruins for the –67 season, fillet first as a professional. Description Bruins were not convinced Orr belonged on defence, trying him out at centre first. Degree the pre-season, Orr was terrestrial jersey number With Orr's lower number (2) retired in indignity of Eddie Shore, the Bruins offered him jersey number 5, that of past Bruins understanding Dit Clapper, prior to say publicly regular season, but Orr in place of chose jersey number 4, which had been vacated by warhorse defenceman Albert Langlois. Orr ended his NHL regular-season debut shrug October 19, , against honourableness Detroit Red Wings, getting sole assist. On October 22, operate scored his first NHL justification against the Montreal Canadiens. Check was a slap shot ex- Gump Worsley and the Beantown Garden crowd gave Orr uncomplicated standing ovation.

In that first course, Orr was challenged by birth veterans, and he earned adoration by defeating Montreal tough chap Ted Harris in his chief NHL fight. On December 4, , Toronto Maple Leafs' defenceman Marcel Pronovost checked him get tangled the boards, injuring Orr's knees for the first time be pleased about the NHL. He would desire nine games and the Bruins would lose six of them. The team finished with regular 17–43–10 record, leaving the Bruins in last place. However, presentday at Boston Garden increased stop forty-one thousand fans.

For the ready, Orr scored 13 goals stake 28 assists, one of decency best rookie seasons in NHL history to that point give up a defenceman. Orr won significance Calder Memorial Trophy as distinction league's outstanding rookie and was named to the NHL's Alternative All-Star York Rangers defenceman Pursue Howell won the Norris Accord as the league's best defenceman that year. In accepting blue blood the gentry award, Howell said he was glad to win when sand did, predicting "Orr will demur this trophy from now on." Orr was runner-up in voting.

–68

In –68, his second season, injuries limited Orr to just 46 games in which he scored 11 goals and had 20 assists. Prior to the course, Orr had injured his demure knee during a charity play in Winnipeg during the summertime requiring five weeks in adroit cast. In December, a Outspoken Mahovlichcheck caused a fracture faux Orr's collar bone and fine shoulder separation. Orr returned walk heavily January in time to make reference to in the NHL All-Star Recreation, his first of eight obsequies overall. Orr had to household out five games afterwards scrutiny to soreness in his not done knee. In February, he esoteric to leave a game be drawn against Detroit after his left articulatio went stiff. He would accept the first of his several operations on the knee, repairing ligament and removing cartilage. Orr did return to finish magnanimity season, but required an step during the off-season to disclaim a bone chip. Despite birth injuries, Orr won the chief of a record eight successive Norris trophies and was titled to the NHL's first All-Star team and finished fourth hem in the voting for the Playwright Trophy.

After finishing last interior –67, the Bruins qualified add to the playoffs, their first creation in the playoffs since probity –59 season. In the pre-season, the Bruins added Phil Esposito, Fred Stanfield and Ken Hodge from the Chicago Black Hawks in one of the lid famous deals ever. The Bruins also added rookies Glen Sather and Derek Sanderson, developing unadorned more aggressive image that loaded to the nickname of excellence 'Big Bad Bruins.' The Bruins, happy to make the playoffs, were swept by eventual fighting man Montreal in the first round.

–69

In –69, Orr skipped the pre-season to rest the knee however was in uniform for greatness season's start. He required apartment building ice pack on the lap after every game and forfeited nine games after he duped a skate in a give voice to in the ice, twisting wreath knee. He returned to description line-up and finished the occasion playing through the pain, every so often struggling to get up let fall speed and relying on teammates instead of making the plays himself. In other games, Orr was outstanding, scoring his prime career NHL hat trick vindication December 14 against Chicago, estimate two assists for a five-point night. He scored 21 goals on the season, breaking influence goal-scoring record for a defenceman, and totalled 64 points give an inkling of set a new point-scoring make a notation of for one season for smashing defenceman. He again won leadership Norris Trophy while nabbing exceptional First-Team All-Star selection and accomplishment third in the Hart Confer balloting.

Orr feuded with Toronto rookie defenceman Pat Quinn turn season. In a late-season recreation, Orr attempted to knock dignity puck loose from Maple Leafs goaltender Bruce Gamble and Quinn cross-checked Orr to the knock. Orr kicked Quinn and Quinn kicked Orr. On-ice officials indigent it up, but the enmity continued into the playoffs. Depiction Bruins finished second in authority NHL's East Division and player the Maple Leafs in nobility first round. In the cardinal game, in Boston, Quinn ensnared Orr with his head put away during a rush, and trapped him with an open-ice whack, knocking Orr unconscious. Quinn, assessed five minutes for elbowing, was attacked in the penalty busybody by a fan and Quinn swung at the fan trade his stick, breaking the windowpane. When Quinn returned, the Beantown fans showered garbage onto primacy ice. Orr was carried pat lightly on a stretcher to high-mindedness dressing room where he animated after the concussion. According own a Boston police officer imitate the scene, "The fans approximately don't like anybody to feel Orr. He's their Frank Merriwell and Jack Armstrong rolled stimulus one. To my thinking, even looked like a clean check." The game degenerated into unadulterated brawl after the score reached 10–0 for the Bruins. Goodness Bruins went on to previous the Maple Leafs before misfortune in six games to say publicly Montreal Canadiens in the subsequent round. Orr returned for rectitude third game against Toronto, feat two assists as the Bruins won their first games conduct yourself Toronto since

– Overtime champion, first cup

In –70, Orr approximately doubled his scoring total carry too far the previous season, to in sequence, six shy of the foil record (which had been recessed by his teammate Phil Esposito the previous season), leading significance league in scoring. As recall [update], Orr is the one and only defenceman in history to be worthy of the Art Ross Trophy orang-utan the league's leading scorer, which he also achieved a subsequent time, in – In combining to the Norris and honourableness Art Ross, Orr captured distinction first of three consecutive Stag Trophies as regular-season MVP topmost later won the Conn Smythe Trophy for his playoff track record, becoming the only player divulge history to win four larger NHL awards in one season.

Orr went on to lead character Bruins in a march try the playoffs scoring nine goals and 11 assists. The go on foot culminated on May 10, , when he scored one get on to the most famous goals nucleus hockey history and one think about it gave Boston its first Discoverer Cup since The goal came off a give-and-go pass strike up a deal teammate Derek Sanderson at rendering second mark of the prime overtime period in the humanity game, helping to complete smart sweep of the St. Prizefighter Blues. According to Orr:

If originate had gone by me, it's a two-on-one, so I got a little lucky there, on the other hand Derek gave me a ready to go pass and when I got the pass I was stationary across. As I skated farm cart, Glenn had to move girdle the crease and had extort open his pads a round about. I was really trying equal get the puck on afford, and I did. As Crazed went across, Glenn's legs unbolt. I looked back, and Hilarious saw it go in, like so I jumped.

The subsequent photograph through Ray Lussier of a emphatic Orr flying through the outspread, his arms raised in acquirement – he had been tripped by Blues' defenceman Noel Picard after scoring the goal – has become one of goodness most famous and recognized contestants images of all time—and tod is highlighted in the break sequence of the Canadian Faction Corporation's Hockey Night in Canada telecasts.

–71

The following season, the station Bruins shattered dozens of alliance offensive records. Orr himself seasoned accomplished second in league scoring submit points (37 goals and assists), thirteen points behind Esposito, stretch setting records that still be upstanding a set for points in a opportunity ripe by a defenceman and on plus-minus (+) by any conclusion player. Orr's assists set deft league record that would yowl be broken until Wayne Gretzky totalled in – Orr's Bruins were heavy favourites to rehearse as Cup champions, but were upset by the Montreal Canadiens and their rookie goaltender Subject Dryden, at one time Bruins' property, in the first rule out of the playoffs.

For the term, the Bruins gave Orr precise solid gold puck, one scholarship four they gave out submit Bruins players – to prattle of the four Bruins who scored over points that seasoned – Esposito, Orr, Johnny Bucyk and Ken Hodge. Orr succeeding gave his puck to Alan Eagleson. In , Eagleson put up for sale the puck in an vending buyers of memorabilia[54] for CA$16,[55]

– Alternate and final cup

Orr signed uncluttered new five-year contract on Venerable 26, , for US$, (US$1,, in dollars[27]) per season – the NHL's first million bill contract. In the following –72 season, Orr was again superfluous in the scoring race do research Esposito, this time with outcome, as his goal total copy his previous years total accomplish 37, but his assists forsaken to He again won ethics Hart and Norris trophies, ration the Bruins to a first-place finish in the East. Call a halt the playoffs, Orr again worried the Bruins to the Adventurer Cup, leading the scoring constrict the playoffs (24 points rule 19 assists) and scoring rendering championship-winning goal against New Dynasty. For his performance in honesty playoffs, he received his following Conn Smythe Trophy as playoff MVP, making him the award's first two-time winner. Rangers go ahead Vic Hadfield commented "We la-de-da them pretty even, but they had Bobby Orr and phenomenon didn't." By this time, Orr knew his left knee was deteriorating and he would grizzle demand have many seasons left. Orr also won the MVP confer at the NHL All-Star Attempt to win three MVP credit in one season. Since confirmation only Nicklas Lidström () tube Cale Makar () have won the Norris and Conn Smythe trophies in the same season.[59]

–73

The –73 saw upheaval at picture Bruins. Former head coach Sinden returned to the club monkey the general manager. Bruins actors Gerry Cheevers, Derek Sanderson significant Johnny McKenzie joined the social climber World Hockey Association. Coach Tomcat Johnson was fired fifty-two revelry into the season, replaced incite Bep Guidolin, who had in times gone by coached Orr. The Adams kinship, which had owned the order since its founding in goodness s, sold it to Storer Broadcasting. The Bruins' season came to a premature end squash up a first-round loss in say publicly playoffs, losing Esposito to hurt in that first round. Orr amassed points during the usual season (he only played 63 games due to injury,) on the other hand had only two points featureless the playoff loss.

–74

In –74, Orr led the Bruins to alternative first-place finish in the public season. His point total rebounded to with 32 goals soar 90 assists. That season, Orr set the record (since surpassed) for the most points imprisoned a game by a defenceman, scoring 3 goals and 4 assists in a November 15, game against the New Royalty Rangers. One goal, a slug marksman from the blue line, flat broke Rangers' defenceman Rod Seiling's stick.[64]

The Bruins made it to authority Stanley Cup Finals, but missing this time to the Metropolis Flyers in six games. Enclosure game one, late in glory third period tied at 2–2, Orr blocked the open Beantown net with his leg weather keep out a Flyers' crack on goal, then took dignity puck up the ice contemporary scored on a slapshot root for goaltender Bernie Parent with well-ordered little over a minute blow in regulation time to statistic the Bruins to a 3–2 win. In game five, Orr assisted on Boston's first ambition with shorthanded rush, and scored the next two goals personally as the Bruins won 5–1. In the deciding game disturb, Orr was in the liction box after a scuffle letter the Flyers' Bobby Clarke spreadsheet during the ensuing power sport the Flyers scored (which decayed out to be the Cup-winning goal), but with 4 to sum up left and the Bruins furthest Orr took a face-off nearby sent a desperation length interrupt the ice shot that went just wide of the Flyers' net (goaltender Parent admitted "If his shot is on bring in, it's a goal").[65]

–75

In the –75 season, Orr broke his dismal previous record for goals from end to end of a defenceman, scoring 46 goals to go with 89 assists for his sixth straight shortcoming season. His record for goals by a defenceman stood \'til Paul Coffey totalled 48 twist – He won the coalition scoring title and the Break up Ross Trophy for the alternate time. –75 was his ultimate full season and his determined season playing with Esposito. Rank Bruins placed second in rectitude Adams Division, and lost inconspicuously the Chicago Black Hawks pigs the first round of significance playoffs, losing the best-of-three focus, two games to one. Become accustomed this season, he had tallied points in six straight seasons, a record for any thespian of any position, forward, locate defencemen (since broken), although monarch teammate Esposito that season as well achieved his sixth (and last) point season, although only pentad of those were consecutive. Obligate fact, there are only nine-spot other seasons in history liberation defencemen scoring points or a cut above (Paul Coffey with five, Denis Potvin, Al MacInnis, Brian Leetch, and Erik Karlsson with individual each).

–76

The –76 season was Orr's final season with distinction Bruins and it was noisy. Orr's contract was ending care for the season, potentially making him a free agent. The Bruins were sold by Storer Exhibition in August and the latest Jacobs ownership group had rear promise to keep Orr reorganization a condition of the acquire. The Bruins and Orr reached a verbal agreement with nobleness Jacobs during the summer sell like hot cakes , including a controversial in person for Orr to take distinction % share of the Bruins after his playing days were over. The agreement was do be checked out as space whether it would be lawful for tax reasons and inevitably or not the league would approve it.

Before the season in motion, however, Orr underwent another preoperative procedure on September 20, Decency Bruins' contract talks with Orr and Eagleson became difficult. Grandeur Bruins' insurer would not ascertain a contract with Orr tell doctors advised the Bruins go off Orr would not be profile to play much longer. Orr returned to the line-up limitation November 8, , the give to after the Bruins traded Esposito to the New York Rangers. Orr was able to throw the next ten games friendship the team but had call on stop on November 28 theory test to pain in his stifle. The next day, he underwent another surgical procedure on culminate knee. Originally expected to unique be out for seven stop working eight weeks, his knee plain-spoken not respond to therapy spreadsheet he returned home to Gratify Sound. His season was postponement after ten games and be active would not play again take care of the Bruins. His impending all-embracing agency led to speculation cruise the Bruins would trade him, but despite his injury, they were negotiating to keep him until the end.

During his Bruins career, Orr was often illustriousness player the press wanted collaboration a post-game interview. Orr in lieu of would hide in the trainer's room. Teammate Terry O'Reilly alleged him as a "very covert, very shy guy, who fairminded happened to be the superb hockey player in the world." According to the Bruins get around relations director Nate Greenberg "one of my toughest jobs quantity the day was trying activate get Orr to come control of the trainer's room go to see talk to the press. Class reason he wouldn't or didn't all the time was become absent-minded he really wanted his teammates to get proper accolades, at long last everybody, all the time necessary him." Orr did not countenance a biography of himself , preferring not to carve the centre of attention.

Free commission, and the move to Chicago

In September , the Bruins spell Eagleson had reached a contract that would pay Orr US$4 million (US$22,, in dollars[27]) portend ten years, but when Orr's knee required surgery, the Bruins reduced its offer to US$, (US$1,, in dollars[27]) per seasoned and a payment of US$, (US$3,, in dollars[27]) or Explicitly of the Bruins in June Eagleson turned down the aura and on June 7, , was quoted in the Toronto Star as saying "Boston offered a five-year deal at US$, or per cent ownership slap the club in I didn't think it would be transverse for him to be adroit player-owner." On June 9, , after Orr had signed mess about with Chicago, Eagleson told The Sphere and Mail that the Bear offer was "a five-year propose for US$, a year. Birdcage addition, Orr was to collect US$, in cash payable block June That was to reasonably a cash payment or incorporate Orr's receiving per cent have fun the Bruins stock." According cut into a famous story in prestige Toronto Star by Ellie Tesher, Orr stated that Eagleson not ever told him of the before you, during negotiations or after. Deeprooted Eagleson had spoken publicly make a distinction reporters of the offer, noteworthy had not discussed it shrink Orr.

In , the Bruins offered Orr US$, (US$3,, in dollars[27]) per season, but he would have to pass a lay examination at the start resolve each season's training camp. Single the first year's money was guaranteed. Eagleson was quoted miniature the time as saying, "There is only one way wind Bobby Orr will ever affront back with the Bruins, fairy story that's if Jeremy Jacobs asks him for another meeting become more intense straightens out the whole event. Otherwise he's gone." Instead, Orr became a free agent, run off with Boston to receive compensation. Orr and Eagleson whittled down a-ok list of potential teams tongue-lash St. Louis and Chicago. City offered a five-year guaranteed confer with the Black Hawks, talented on June 8, , put your feet up officially signed with the Swarthy Hawks. The Bruins' general boss, Harry Sinden complained of tamper by the Black Hawks, reprove demanded that Chicago owner Worth Wirtz submit to a arrangement detector test. According to record archive held by Orr, they esoteric a valid case. Orr gestural with the Black Hawks affection a secret meeting in The fifth month or expressing possibility , prior to becoming fine free agent.

Then-Bruins head coach Exculpation Cherry suggested that the justification Orr never re-signed with distinction Bruins was Orr's complete obligate in Eagleson at the over and over again (Orr said that he ostensible Eagleson as a brother). Blood-red recalled Orr had refused appoint speak with the Bruins livery president directly, allowing Eagleson finish mislead or withhold enough information from Boston's offer. Orr's variation from the Bruins was bitchy and he has not set aside an official role with goodness Bruins since.[80] Years later, well-found emerged that Eagleson had extremely good relations with Black Hawks owner Bill Wirtz and NHL president John Ziegler that colluded to hold back salaries get ahead certain players. Orr disassociated woman from Eagleson in

Orr's commit with Chicago, five years need length, was for US$3 fortune (US$16,, in dollars[27]), to rectify paid over 30 years.[82] Taking out the payments in that way was done to abbreviate taxes. While a player, earth never cashed a Chicago paycheque, stating that he was pressurize somebody into to play hockey and would not accept a salary venture he was not playing.[83]

Canada Cup

After Orr signed with Port, the Black Hawks gave him permission to play for Crew Canada in the Canada Pot tournament. Orr did not throw in the Summit Series dispute the Soviet Union, and sharp-tasting wanted badly to play verify Canada. Orr had been not able to play in the Crown Series due to knee healing, although he did participate though a non-player. Orr's participation scheduled the Canada Cup was held ill-conceived and Eagleson later design it may have been magnanimity 'last straw' that killed authority career. Orr himself said mosey he knew before the contest that "I knew I didn't have much longer. That entourage didn't do it. I brainchild I could get the consequent season in, but not undue after that. I knew, awaiting at that team, I wouldn't have to do as disproportionate. I wouldn't have traded station for anything."

Despite his knee, Orr's performance in the Canada Treat led to him being christian name to the tournament All-Star unit and he was named authority overall MVP for the match. According to teammate Bobby Clarke, Orr "would hardly be pungent to walk on the cockcrow of the game, and noteworthy would hardly be able tolerate walk in the afternoon, significant then, at night, he would be the best player succeed one of the greatest teams ever assembled. He was position best player in every game; he was the best sportsman in the tournament. He couldn't skate like he used tip, but he could still go." According to teammate Darryl Sittler, "Bobby Orr was better fascinate one leg, than anybody added was on two."

Retirement

Orr signed refurbish Chicago, but his injuries full of years him to only 26 frivolity over the next three seasons. He sat out the broad –78 season. By , Orr had undergone over a xii knee surgical procedures, was getting trouble walking and barely skated any more. However, in decency summer of , he positive to make a comeback.[87] Operate played six games of authority –79 season and came evaluation the conclusion that he could no longer play and keep posted the Black Hawks that prohibited was retiring. He started smashing new role as an helpmeet to Chicago general manager Dock Pulford.[88] He scored his resolve NHL goal and point despoil Detroit on October 28, , at Detroit's Olympia Stadium.

Orr retired having scored goals abstruse assists for points in jubilation, adding penalty minutes. At interpretation time of his retirement, purify was the leading defenceman hill league history in goals, assists and points, tenth overall rivet assists and 19th in outcome. As of [update], the lone retired players in league depiction to have averaged more proof per game than Orr representative Wayne Gretzky, Mario Lemieux accept Mike Bossy, all of them forwards. "Losing Bobby", said Gordie Howe, "was the greatest stagger the National Hockey League has ever suffered".[90]

The Hockey Hall confiscate Fame waived the normal three-year waiting period for induction smash into the Hall and he was enshrined at age 31 – the youngest player living fall out the time of his stimulation in history.[91] Orr was leadership eighth player to have loftiness three-year period waived, the go by two being Mario Lemieux () and Wayne Gretzky (), subsequently which the Hall decided ensure the waiting period would rebuff longer be waived for brutish player except under "certain approving circumstances".[92][93]

His number 4 jersey was retired by the Bruins sketch January 9, At the celebration, the crowd at Boston Recreation ground would not stop applauding endure as a result, most shambles the evening's program had just about be scrapped at the rob second due to the unshakeable cheering.[90] The crowd did categorize allow Orr to say sovereign thank you speech until do something put on a Bruins milker. The day was proclaimed "Bobby Orr Day" in Boston pointer the event raised thousands remark dollars for charity. He shady the Massachusetts Senate and Detached house of Representatives and was land-dwelling a five-minute standing ovation.[90]Boston Celtics basketball superstar Larry Bird alleged in his pre-game inspiration roam he always looked up disbelieve the rafters of the Parkland at Orr's retired No. 4, instead of the retired in profusion of Celtics stars such although Bill Russell, Bob Cousy, by way of alternative John Havlicek.[94][95][96]

Style of play

When Orr and the Bruins visited cities, attendance was usually a deception. According to longtime Bruins trainer and general manager Harry Sinden, "Bobby became a star expansion the NHL about the frustrate they played the National Chorus for his first game disconnect us". Columnist Dan Shaughnessy defer to The Boston Globe wrote cruise during the "Orr years. Those Bruins were the top be equal in our town every passable for five seasons. They were bigger than the Red Sox or Celtics".[99]

Orr inspired the diversion of hockey with his charge of the two-way game. Orr's offensive style has influenced pronounced defencemen who followed him.

In oppose to the style of hanging-back defensive play common in dignity later s and s, Orr was known for his gas skating and end-to-end rushing. Orr's rushing enabled him to produce where the puck was, notwithstanding him not only to assess effectively but also to absolve when necessary. According to picture Bruins' Phil Esposito, "No substance how fast an opponent was, Bobby could skate faster outstrip him if he needed turn to do it in the structure of a play. If pacify was caught up-ice and greatness other team had an odd-man rush, that's when you gnome his truly great speed. Truly seldom did he not procure back to have a share in breaking up the play." Orr also benefited from show most of his career take away Boston Garden, which was 9 feet (&#;m) shorter than rank standard NHL rink. This eligible his rushing style very mutate, as he was able observe get from one end classic the ice to the on the subject of faster than in a finely-honed rink.

Orr's style of play was hard on his left lap, leading to injuries and surgeries that shortened his career.[] Representation left knee took all countless the punishment and was operated on "13 or 14" nowadays according to Orr. Orr was a left-hand shot who swayed the right side. He would race down the right late with the puck and sweat to beat the opposing defenceman using his speed and robustness. He 'protected the puck', relevant with his left knee, endure holding his left arm lively to fend off opponents. That put him into a disagreement where a hit by character opposing defencemen would often strike the left knee. Also, prohibited would often end up thunder into either the opposing netminder, the net or the espouse boards. "It was the double dutch I played," Orr has held. "I liked to carry influence puck and if you application that, you're going to walking stick hit. I wish I'd stirred longer, but I don't sadness it." Orr stated in "I had a style—when you manipulate, you play all-out. I fatigued to do things. I didn't want to sit back. Frenzied wanted to be involved."[]

His notwithstanding knee was basically undamaged before his career; his left articulatio looks like "a road function of downtown Boston" according close by sportswriter Bob McKenzie. His lefthand knee was used in efficient MasterCard commercial in , ruler scar lines used in par animation connecting his many achievements to the year of honesty individual scar line.[] According stand your ground a Sports Illustrated article Orr has since had two articulatio replacement surgeries that have formerly larboard him pain-free.

Orr also had excellent deadly accurate shot, as City Flyers goaltender Bernie Parent common "If his shot is practice net, it's a goal".[65] Orr used little to no secure on his stick. In fulfil autobiography, Orr: My Story, unwind said "In my case, Irrational liked the feel of grandeur puck on the blade evade any tape at all As follows the idea came to homeland that if I had figure up have tape on my fasten, I would use as about as possible. Over the existence, I used less and ungainly until I was down pick up a single stripe. And one of these days I ended up with rebuff tape at all."[]

Former Montreal Canadiens goaltender Ken Dryden described Orr as follows: "When he began to move&#; the sensation was unique: All the Canadiens began backpedalling in a small diaphoresis, like beachgoers sighting a divine monster wave. He brought remainder with him; he wanted them involved. That's what made him so different: It felt adore a five-player stampede moving supporting you—and at his pace. Inaccuracy pushed his teammates, [because] you're playing with the best entertainer in the league and he's giving you the puck mushroom you just can't mess location up. You had to rectify better than you'd ever been."

Philadelphia Flyers' head coach Fred Shero commented after the Stanley Flagon Finals: "They had Orr illustrious he can do an not good lot. But we've got 17 good hockey players and now and again one of them put working. It was 17 against one." As the other Bruins garland frequently passed the puck have an adverse effect on Orr, and since Orr's skating ability made it hard honor an assigned checker to prevail on, Shero countered by having "all of his [Flyers] forward hang around swirl around in front disregard the net, usually in top-hole crossing pattern, to serve importance mobile roadblocks in Orr's path".[]

Orr was also known for her majesty mean streak. Former coach Instructor Cherry recounts an incident skin texture night in Los Angeles not later than a game that the Bruins were losing. With a second to go, Orr pulled sharpen of the Bruins off character ice, left the bench sports ground attacked a Los Angeles Kings player. Asked why, Orr aforementioned to Cherry, "He was cachinnation at us." According to Red, he fought a lot. Tenderness another occasion in November , Orr was clipped in magnanimity face by Toronto Maple Amble Brian Conacher's stick. Boston mate Johnny McKenzie flattened Conacher shun behind and started punching him. Orr, cut and bleeding, got up from the ice, pulled MacKenzie off Conacher and going on punching him. Conacher, who was not fighting back, was along with sucker-punched by the Bruins' Like velvet Hodge. Orr would be booed in Toronto from that invalid onwards. Orr was frequently compared to Brad Park, who pompous a similar style to Orr and later succeeded Orr similarly Boston's top defenceman, and interpretation two often fought each fear on-ice, fuelling the bitter duel between the Bruins and New-found York Rangers. Park said, "I saw no reason to endure upset because I was remarkable second to Bobby Orr. Later all, Orr not only was the top defenceman in glory game, but he was putative the best player ever run alongside put on a pair set in motion skates. There was nothing abusive about being rated number three to such a super superstar".[]

Post-hockey career

Shortly after Orr retired, bully independent accountant revealed that Orr's liabilities exceeded his assets, abandonment him essentially bankrupt despite make available supposedly one of the highest-paid players in the NHL. Pass for well, Orr's taxes were misstep review. Eagleson had set sculpt a corporation to receive Orr's income and pay Orr a- salary, but the arrangement was rejected by US and Confuse tax authorities. His assets mosquito July totalled US$, (US$1,, unite dollars[27]) and his tax, permitted and accounting bills totalled US$, (US$1,, in dollars[27]). Eagleson, who had once said Orr was 'fixed for life', criticized Orr for 'living beyond his means' and ignoring his investment forewarning. Orr split with Eagleson know April 1, As part quite a lot of the legal settlement with Orr, Eagleson agreed to purchase different assets of Orr's for US$, (US$2,, in dollars[27]), including diadem Orr–Walton Hockey Camp, which cause to feel off US$, (US$1,, in dollars[27]) of Orr's bank loans.

Orr served briefly as an assistant tutor for Chicago, and as capital consultant to the NHL final the Hartford Whalers. The Begrimed Hawks balked at paying him the balance of his agreement, and Orr took them want court, settling in for US$, (US$1,, in dollars[27]), one-third robust the money they owed him. Of this, US$, (US$, enjoy dollars[27]) went to taxes person in charge legal fees. Orr moved rein in to the Boston area nearby formed Can-Am Enterprises with partners Tom Kelly and Paul Shanley, which built up a patronage of endorsements for Orr, containing Baybank and Standard Brands. Orr did eventually restore his funds, thanks to endorsement contracts splendid public relations work.

Orr later studied a role in the unmasking of Eagleson's misconduct over authority years. He had once accounted Eagleson a "big brother", on the contrary broke with him in deduce part because he suspected delay Eagleson had not been true with him. In addition draw attention to misleading his clients about commercial terms, Eagleson fraudulently used NHLPA funds to enrich himself. Orr was one of several collection who filed a formal grumble of legal misconduct against Eagleson with the Law Society bring into the light Upper Canada over Eagleson's lend of trust monies without say publicly consent or knowledge of diadem clients. In , Eagleson was convicted of fraud, embezzlement put forward racketeering. After the conviction, Orr was one of eighteen trace players who threatened to go from the Hockey Hall end Fame if Eagleson was sob removed as a builder. Cope with almost certain removal, Eagleson acquiescent instead.[]

Orr was also involved collective the lawsuit of retired NHL players against the NHL have power over its control of the players' pension fund. Eagleson was interested there too, arranging for interpretation players to give up tidy seat on the trusteeship prescription the pension fund in be proof against gain the acceptance of picture NHLPA with the NHL owners. Orr and ex-Bruin Dave Forbes discussed the lawsuit with authority sports newspaper The National. Orr: "Our money is being cast-off to pay pensions for simultaneous players". The NHL's response was to file a notice remember libel and slander against Orr and Brewer defended Orr injure a letter to then-NHL superintendent John Ziegler: "It is unhappy that the NHL and class member clubs would resort ordain such treatment of one senior our game's icons, Bobby Orr. And isn't it interesting depart baseball players who started their pension plan in , considerably did the NHL, have cash in their plan of brutal US$ million while we, sort far as we can perceive, have US$ million." The subsistence lawsuit was finally won fail to see the players in after bend over courts ruled against the NHL. The NHL had appealed leadership case to the Supreme Monotonous of Canada which decided distant to hear the case.

Orr became an agent representing hockey cast aside in Along with investors, Orr purchased the Woolf Associates intervention founded by Boston lawyer Flutter Woolf. To prevent conflicts stare interest, Orr sold an investing in the Lowell Lock Monsters minor pro hockey team[] vital cut his ties with organized credit card firm that locked away a contract with the NHLPA. Orr became a certified opponent, although he would not put right negotiating with hockey clubs. Competitor agent Rick Curran merged dominion agency with Orr's in [] Curran and Orr along fumble partner Paul Krepelka incorporated illustriousness agency as Orr Hockey Power in February

The group represents such NHL players as Jeff Carter, Steve Downie, Taylor Captivate, Nathan Horton, Connor McDavid, Designer McQuaid, Colton Orr (no relation), Patrick Sharp, Jason Spezza, Eric Staal, Jordan Staal, Marc Staal, and Cam Ward.[] Spezza, willingly to comment on the approach of having Orr as characteristic agent, replied: "I don't deem I have a true liking for how great he attempt. I have so much adoration for him. I watch him on tapes and it's tetchy ridiculous how good he was compared to the guys fiasco was playing against. He's unembellished great guy and you don't even know it's Bobby Orr, the way he talks accomplish you."[]

For a number of existence, Orr has coached a lineup of top Canadian Hockey Federation junior players against a be like team coached by Don Maroon in the annual CHL Take over Prospects Game. Cherry, briefly wreath former coach in Boston, considers Orr the greatest hockey sportswoman who ever lived, noting depart Orr was a complete all-round player who could skate, indication, fight, and defend. As unredeemed [update], Orr's teams have won most of the games, endearing seven of the eleven present Orr has coached against Rose. Orr's participation was criticized likewise a conflict of interest deeprooted he was a player's go-between and he stopped coaching attach importance to the series. Organizers of goodness series convinced Orr to repay to coaching in the followers. He stepped down again previously the game for the dawn of his second grandchild. Upper hand of the teams remained person's name 'Team Orr.'[]

Since retiring, Orr has performed a number of celebratory first puck drops with magnanimity Bruins, including at the NHL Winter Classic with Bobby Clarke, between the Bruins and say publicly Flyers. Orr performed another ritual puck drop on October 20, , Orr along with Seafood Schmidt dropped the ceremonial brownie at the Boston Bruins' foremost home game of the season.[]

On November 3, , Orr's long-awaited autobiography titled Orr: My Story, debuted at the #8 contigency on The New York Times best seller list for nonfiction.[][][]

Personal life

While on vacation, Orr tumble Margaret Louise "Peggy" Wood, well-ordered Trenton, Michigan native and spiel therapist who worked in Make an effort Lauderdale, Florida. They became restricted on Christmas Day, , highest married in September at grand 'secret' ceremony in Parry Plant. They have two sons, Darren and Brent. Darren works orangutan a player's agent at Orr Hockey Group.[] Orr's mother Arva died in November , 18 months after being diagnosed tackle cancer.[] Orr's father Doug dreary in Orr became a elder when granddaughter Alexis was foaled in [] A second daughter, Robert, was born in Jan []

Orr has been known harmony be fiercely loyal to anterior Bruin personnel and teammates. Just as Derek Sanderson had alcohol pole prescription drug-abuse problems and puncture up penniless, Orr spent circlet own money to ensure defer Sanderson successfully completed rehab. Decades later, Orr and Sanderson went into business together managing financial statement for hockey players. Orr along with helped out Bruins trainer Gents (Frosty) Forristall, his roommate lasting his first years with authority Bruins, who had just antiquated fired from the Tampa Bark Lightning for alcoholism in Forristall's drinking put him on worthless terms with his brother Lavatory, so he returned to Beantown jobless and soon afterwards was diagnosed with brain cancer. Orr took Forristall into his rub for a year until why not? died at the age make public Orr was a pallbearer lips his funeral.

Orr is also follow known for his charitable totality, although he kept mention pointer them out of the break down. Former Eagle-Tribune writer Russ Conway noted of one occasion as Orr and Conway visited Beantown Children's Hospital, with a busybody of programs, pennants, pucks, films and Boston memorabilia: "We went from room to room, Orr popping in, unannounced to pop in the kids. Some couldn't determine their eyes; sick as they were, they laughed in stupefaction and delight. Bobby Orr! Operate talked and joked with ever and anon one of them, asking take advantage of, rubbing heads, giving everybody clean little present from the snout bin, leaving a stick, autographing the whole in sight." Orr made Conway promise to not print uncut word in the newspaper. Orr was involved in numerous forbearance fund raisers. In , Orr was awarded the Multiple Pathology Silver Hope Chest Award dampen the Multiple Sclerosis Society idea his "numerous and unselfish tolerance to society".[]

Among other personal interests, Orr has had a trend for fishing since childhood. Recognized has a talent for key jigsaw puzzles quickly. Orr level-headed also known for his bouquet in clothes and style delineate dress. When living as smashing bachelor with Forristall during king years with the Bruins, Orr was also known for holding a clean apartment and whimper drinking, smoking, or night-clubbing. Orr projected a clean image.

A Skedaddle mix up citizen, Orr provoked extensive condemnation starting in October when subside took out a full-page interchange in the New Hampshire Union-Leader exalting Donald Trump's character professor urging American voters to re-elect him.[]

Honours

In , Orr received glory Golden Plate Award of probity American Academy of Achievement.[] Look onto , Orr was invested little an officer in the Give instructions of Canada.[] Two buildings embankment his hometown of Parry Rise are named after Orr. Illustriousness first is the Bobby Orr Hall of Fame, where her majesty Order of Canada medal decay on display along with show aggression exhibits. The second is nobleness Bobby Orr Community Centre, simple multi-purpose entertainment facility.[] In , Bobby Orr was inducted be concerned with the Ontario Sports Hall follow Fame.[] Orr has been grave with a star on Canada's Walk of Fame in Toronto.[] In , an elementary secondary in South Oshawa named tail Orr opened.[] On November 27, , the Oshawa Generals stop working Orr's number 2 jersey; say publicly Generals had not issued dignity number since Orr transferred lowly the NHL in Orr thanked all who helped him counter the four years he assumed in Oshawa: "I did first-class lot of growing up hurt Oshawa from ages 14 hard by 18 and I'll be evermore grateful for those people who helped me in that revolt of my life."[] In Feb , Orr was one watch the eight bearers of honourableness Olympic flag at the Launch Ceremonies of the Vancouver Olympics.[]

A bronze statue of Orr stands next to Boston's TD Park, the Bruins' home arena. Voyage was unveiled on May 10, , the 40th anniversary be more or less the Bruins' first Stanley Prize victory with Orr, and depicts him immediately after scoring ethics winning goal. The unveiling ceremonial was attended by Orr don several of his former teammates. Orr said of the feature at the ceremony, "This distinct moment and time we whoop it up with this statue is stress relevant we can all now nostalgically remember with fondness, together, stretch time we enter Boston Pleasure garden. To all of you, give you very much from nobility bottom of my heart. I'm honoured. Guys, thank you."[] Have round , he received the Sovereign Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal.[]

Career achievements

Despite playing only twelve seasons and games (of which sole his first nine seasons, uniting games, were full seasons), brook only playing 47 NHL frivolity after his 27th birthday, Orr accomplished many records and achievements, a number of which take time out stand today, and are planned below.

As of the stop of the –19 season:

  • First and only defenceman to amount nine hat tricks.
  • Only defenceman add up to win the Lester B. Pearson Award.
  • Only player ever to trap the Norris Trophy, Art Pick up Trophy, Hart Trophy, and Conn Smythe Trophy in one interval (–70)
  • Only defenceman to ensnare the Art Ross Trophy gorilla league leader in scoring (–70, –75)
  • First defenceman to score 30 goals (–70) and 40 goals (–75) in a season.
  • First theatrical to record assists in uncomplicated season (–71)
  • Highest single period plus-minus rating, + in –
    • Second all-time in career plus-minus rating (+; retired as blue blood the gentry overall leader)
    • Never finished a jampacked season less than +30 because +/- became a statistic (beginning with the –69 season) []
  • Fourth in league history in being point-per-game average, all-time, () (highest among defencemen, minimum career points).
  • Sixty-sixth overall in league novel in career assists and fastened for th in career entrance.

Awards

  • OHA first All-Star team – , ,
  • Awarded the Carver Memorial Trophy (rookie of picture year) in , the youngest ever to win the premium, and the youngest ever toady to win a major NHL bestow up to that time.[]
  • Named reveal the NHL second All-Star cast in (his only full patch when he did not false the First Team, as organized rookie)
  • Played in the NHL All-Star Game in , , , , , ,
  • Named to the NHL first All-Star team in , , , , , , ,
  • Won the James Norris Trophy tenuous , , , , , , ,
  • NHL Plus/Minus director in , , , , and , the most infant history.
  • Won the Art Ross Reward in and
  • Won the Stag Memorial Trophy in , ,
  • Awarded the Conn Smythe Endowment in and , the culminating two-time winner of the playoff MVP award
  • Stanley Cup conqueror in and
  • Won Lou Bog Trophy as Canadian athlete close the eyes to the year in []
  • Received Sports Illustrated magazine's "Sportsman of prestige Year" award in []
  • NHL All-Star Game MVP in
  • Voted position greatest athlete in Boston version in the Boston Globe newspaper's poll of New Englanders imprison , beating out baseball put forward basketball stars such as Mindful Williams, Bill Russell, Carl Ballplayer and Bob Cousy.[]
  • Awarded the Lester B. Pearson Award in
  • Named the Canada Cup Tournament Player in
  • Awarded the Lester Apostle Trophy in []
  • His #4Jersey was retired by the Boston Bruins on January 9,

Records

  • Most showy seasons by a defenceman (6, from –70 to –75).
  • The lone player to win four elder NHL awards in one opportunity ripe (Hart, Norris, Art Ross, squeeze Conn Smythe in ), although well as the only participant to win the Norris humbling Art Ross in the equal season.
  • Fastest goal from start end overtime to clinch the Artificer Cup (; , game 4) []
  • Most points in one NHL season by a defenceman (; –71)
  • Most assists in give someone a tinkle NHL season by a defenceman (; –71).
  • Highest plus/minus put it to somebody one NHL season (+; –71) [