On February 1, 1997, Boston Bruins Captain, Ray Bourque, broke a franchise record. In a game against the Tampa Bay Lightning, Bourque notched three points from a goal and two assists making his career total 1,340 and breaking the all-time point record for the Bruins franchise. Bourque dethroned Johnny Bucyk, who held the previous record with 1,339 points. Bucyk was happy to see the captain take over the record, saying “It couldn’t have been broken by a better person or greater hockey player.” However, #77 didn’t stop there.
“When you play a long time and stay healthy, good things will happen to you” The ever-humble Ray Bourque said about breaking the record
After finishing his celebrated NHL career – 22 total seasons, 21 of which were with the Boston Bruins – Bourque had tallied a total of 1,579 points – 410 goals and 1,169 assists – in 1,612 games. Not only is he the franchise point leader, but he continues to hold the NHL record for most career points by a defenseman.
Aside from leading in points, Ray Bourque has established an impressive list of achievements, awards and honors. He was selected to play in 19 NHL All-Star Games, was named 1996 NHL All-Star Game MVP, won the Norris Trophy five times, won the King Clancy Memorial Trophy and received the Lester Patrick Trophy. The former captain is also the NHL career leader in shots on goal with 6,206 – almost one thousand more shots that Marcel Dionne who currently holds 2nd place. After playing 21 seasons with the Bruins, he also received the honor of the most games – 1,518 and assists – 1,111 with a single team. Bourque left his legacy in Boston and was honored for his time spent with the team by having #77 retired by the Bruins as well as by the Colorado Avalanche. He was indicted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 2004.
“Goals live on the other side of obstacles and challenges. Be relentless in pursuit of those goals, especially in the face of obstacles. Along the way, make no excuses and place no blame.” – Ray Bourque