If you are a hockey fan from the 1960’s and 70’s you probably remember the Plager brothers, Bob, Barclay, and Billy. Hailing from Kirkland Lake, Ontario, this trio of hockey siblings became synonymous with the St. Louis Blues, weaving and leaving a compelling narrative of grit, dedication, and loyalty to the game.
From youngest to oldest, let’s have a look at the Plager brothers.
Bill Plager – A Short But Memorable Career
The Plager brothers, known for their tough and physical style of play, made their mark in the NHL during the late 1960s and early 1970s. Bill Plager, the youngest of the three, had the shortest NHL career. He played for the North Stars, Blues, and Flames, appearing in 263 NHL games. While he also played in the minor leagues, Bill showcased his skills in the NHL, scoring four goals and earning 38 points throughout his career as a tough defenseman.
Bob Plager – A Key Player In The Blues Success
Bob Plager, the middle brother, started his hockey journey with the Rangers organization before joining the Blues. His arrival coincided with the team’s rise to prominence, as they reached three consecutive Stanley Cup Finals from 1968 to 1970. Bob’s NHL career spanned 14 seasons, during which he played 644 games and contributed 20 goals and 126 points. He was highly regarded for his strong defensive play and toughness on the ice. In addition to his playing career, Bob also had a stint as the coach of the Blues during the 1992-93 season.
Barclay Plager – The Toughest Of Them All
Barclay Plager, the eldest of the Plager brothers, was known for his physicality and fearlessness on the ice. Throughout his entire NHL career, which lasted from 1967 to 1977, he proudly wore the Blues jersey. Barclay’s aggressive style of play resulted in six seasons with 100 or more penalty minutes. In a total of 614 career NHL games, he scored 44 goals and accumulated 231 points. Sadly, Barclay passed away in 1988 due to brain cancer.
Hockey Tidbit: On March 1, 1969, Blues coach Scotty Bowman put the three Plager brothers, who were defensemen, in the starting lineup at forward and played them on the same line together in a game against the Montreal Canadiens.
Conclusion:
In the annals of hockey history, the Plager brothers stand as a testament to the enduring spirit of the sport. Bob, Barclay, and Billy have all passed but they have left a legacy that extends far beyond the ice. Their dedication, toughness, and unwavering commitment to the St. Louis Blues became emblematic of the true essence of hockey.
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