Throwback Thursday: Boston Bruins All-Star Edition
As the sole member of the Boston Bruins selected for this years’ NHL All-Star game, Patrice Bergeron had an MVP worthy performance. With one goal and four assists, he helped Team Toews come out on top 17-12. Although he didn’t take home the MVP title – or break any records – he still gave Bruins nation something to be proud of.
Having had some of the greatest NHL players of all time on the team, the Boston Bruins have had their share of NHL All-Star appearances. From current players like Chara to legends, including Booby Orr and Phil Esposito, Bruins players have left their mark. Let’s take a look back at the highlights and records from former Bruins’ All-Stars.
Tim Thomas
One of the team’s former goalies, Tim Thomas was selected to participate in four All-Star Games in 2008, 2009, 2011 and 2012. Based on his unique performance between the pipes, Thomas gained notoriety from not only Bruins’ fans, but also hockey fans across the globe. During all four of his All-Star appearances, he led his team to victory, which provided a new record for most consecutive wins by a goaltender.
Dec 16, 2014; Nashville, TN, USA; Boston Bruins defenseman Zdeno Chara (33) during the first period against the Nashville Predators at Bridgestone Arena. Mandatory Credit: Christopher Hanewinckel-USA TODAY Sports
Zdeno Chara
As the current Boston Bruin’s Captain, Zdeno Chara has become well-known across the NHL. Whether it’s positive recognition by Bruins’ fans or
dislike
fear by other teams and their fans, the 6ft 9in Slovakian is one of the players that you can’t forget. This has helped him land a position in seven NHL All-Star Games. Chara won the Hardest Shot competition five times and currently holds the record at 108.8mph – would hate to be on the receiving end of that shot!
Cam Neely
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Cam Neely is a household name in Bruins Nation. Not only is he the current Bruins’ President, but he is one of the most beloved former players. Although his career was cut short due to a knee injury, he was able to achieve some key accomplishments and recognitions during his time as a Bruin. His strong skills on the ice were not missed by all of the NHL and fans across the nation, which led to his five appearances in NHL All-Star Games.
Bobby Orr
When you think about hockey greats, there is a name that all Bruin’s fans think – Bobby Orr. Despite having his NHL career cut short, Orr established a solid career with many achievements to be proud of. This includes being named to the All-Star team 8 times. From 1968 to 1975 Orr played in the NHL All-Star Game. To top off this great accomplishment, he was selected as the All-Star Game MVP in 1972.
Phil Esposito
Known as one of the best players ever to play in the NHL, Phil Esposito was a key player in Bruins history. After being traded to the Bruins from the Chicago Black Hawks, Esposito came into his game and eventually became one of the top scorers. This led him to being selected for 10 NHL All-Star Games.
Ray Bourque
The Bruins’ longest serving Captain, Ray Bourque, capped off his celebrated career with 19 trips – 2nd to only Gordie Howe – to the NHL All-Star Games, including 1980-1996, 1999 and 2001. One of the most well-known players in Bruin’s history, he made a name for himself across the NHL while playing in these games. He won the Shooting Accuracy Competition eight times, was named MVP in the 1996 game and scored the game winning goal in the 1997 game held in Boston.
Johnny Bucyk
As with Cam Neely, Johnny Bucyk is one of those names that Bruins fans continue to hear today. Since becoming a Bruin in 1957, he has held many position within the organization. Although he retired in 1978 he has continued to remain active with the Bruins Alumni. During his time in the NHL, Bucyk was selected for All-Star Games seven times, six of which were with the Bruins. A man that bleeds black and gold, Bucyk is a true Bruins legacy.
Honorable Mentions: Dit Clapper six-time All-Star, Frank Brimsek nine-time All-Star, Tiny Thompson four-time All-Star and Milt Schmidt four-time All-Star.