The 1960s was a decade of cultural upheaval and transformative change that left a lasting impact on society, politics, and popular culture. As the world witnessed the rise of counterculture movements, the civil rights struggle, and the space race, the landscape of professional sports, including hockey, underwent its own evolution.
The NHL expansion in 1967 brought the league to 12 teams but for most of the decade there were only the original six teams. The six team league made hockey jobs scarce and many great players had to accept lesser roles. Third and fourth liners were excellent players making overall competition a lot tougher in these earlier days of hockey.
Ranking the best NHL players of the sixties involves considering various factors, including individual performance, impact on the game, and team success. While opinions may vary, here’s our list of five players who are often regarded among the best from that era:
- Bobby Hull (Chicago Blackhawks):
- Why: Nicknamed the “Golden Jet,” Hull was a scoring machine throughout the 1960s. He led the league in goals seven times during the decade and won two Hart Trophies. Hull’s powerful and accurate shot made him one of the most feared forwards of his time, and his offensive contributions were crucial for the Blackhawks.
- Bobby Orr (Boston Bruins):
- Why: Bobby Orr revolutionized the defenseman position with his offensive prowess. In the 1960s, Orr won two Norris Trophies as the league’s best defenseman and captured three Hart Trophies as the league’s MVP. His ability to score from the blue line was unprecedented, and he played a crucial role in reshaping the expectations for defensemen. Orr only started in 1966, but finished third in decade scoring by defensemen with 256 points in just 250 games.
- Gordie Howe (Detroit Red Wings):
- Why: Despite entering the latter stages of his illustrious career in the 1960s, Gordie Howe remained a dominant force. Howe showcased his incredible longevity, versatility, and skill, winning three Hart Trophies during the decade. His impact on and off the ice made him a symbol of excellence and a player respected by teammates and opponents alike.
- Jean Béliveau (Montreal Canadiens):
- Why: Béliveau was a cornerstone of the dominant Montreal Canadiens teams in the 1960s. As the team captain, he led Montreal to multiple Stanley Cup victories and won two Hart Trophies. Béliveau’s leadership, sportsmanship, and offensive contributions made him one of the most respected figures in the league.
- Stan Mikita (Chicago Blackhawks):
- Why: Mikita was a dynamic forward who played a crucial role for the Chicago Blackhawks in the 1960s. He won four Art Ross Trophies as the league’s leading scorer during the decade and was known for his exceptional playmaking abilities. Mikita’s skillful and intelligent style of play left a lasting impact on the game.
The 1960s stand as a pivotal chapter in the annals of hockey history, a decade where the clash of sticks and the symphony of skates echoed the spirit of a transformative era. From the thunderous slap shots of Bobby Hull to the graceful strides of Bobby Orr, and the indomitable presence of Gordie Howe, these players etched their names into the very fabric of the sport.
The iconic Original Six franchises, the fierce rivalries, and the evolution of playing styles characterized an era where hockey mirrored the societal shifts of the times. As the curtain fell on the 1960s, the rinks were left with enduring tales of triumph, teamwork, and individual brilliance—stories that continue to reverberate through the corridors of hockey lore, shaping the game we know and love today. The echoes of those bygone days remind us that the heart of hockey, with its indomitable spirit, remains timeless.
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