Danny Gare will be remembered as a player that put up some pretty good numbers in the NHL. For those that watched him play as a Sabre and Red Wing he will also be remembered for his passion, perseverance and relentless pursuit of excellence. Let’s have a look at the hockey journey of NHL legend Danny Gare.
Early Days and Junior Hockey:
Danny Gare’s hockey odyssey began in the revered realms of Canadian junior hockey. Hailing from Nelson, British Columbia, Gare showcased his prodigious talent with the Calgary Centennials of the Western Canada Hockey League (WCHL). It was here that he honed his skills, catching the attention of scouts with his electrifying speed, impeccable scoring touch, and tenacious style of play.
NHL Career:
Gare’s remarkable junior career culminated in being drafted 29th overall by the Buffalo Sabres in the 1974 NHL Amateur Draft. Thus began his storied tenure in the NHL, where he would etch his name in the annals of hockey history. Gare’s prowess on the ice was immediately evident as he made an instant impact with the Sabres, earning a spot on the NHL All-Rookie Team in the 1974-75 season.
Hockey Tidbit: In his first NHL game in 1974 Danny Gare scored on his first shift, first shot after only 18 seconds in the league. Pretty good start.
Over the course of his NHL career, Gare donned the jerseys of the Buffalo Sabres, Detroit Red Wings, and Edmonton Oilers. However, it was with the Sabres where he truly blossomed into a bona fide star. Gare’s tenure in Buffalo was marked by a string of stellar performances, including five 30-goal seasons and three All-Star Game appearances. His dynamic playing style endeared him to fans and earned him a reputation as one of the league’s premier forwards.
Danny Gare Tidbits:
- Buffalo Sabres captain from 1977 – 1981
- Detroit Red Wings captain from 1982 to 1986
- Scored 50 or more goals twice in his career. 50 in 1975/76 and 56 in 1979/80
- Involved in huge trade: On December 2, 1981, Gare, along with Jim Schoenfeld and Derek Smith were traded to the Detroit Red Wings in exchange for Mike Foligno, Dale McCourt and Brent Peterson.
Stats and Accolades:
Gare’s statistical achievements are a testament to his unparalleled skill and dedication to the game. Over the course of his NHL career, he amassed an impressive total of 354 goals and 331 assists for a grand total of 685 points in 827 regular-season games. His playoff performances were equally impressive, tallying 37 points in 48 postseason appearances.
Among his numerous accolades, Gare clinched the Bill Masterton Memorial Trophy in 1980, an honor bestowed upon the player who best exemplifies perseverance, sportsmanship, and dedication to hockey. Additionally, he was named team captain for both the Sabres and the Red Wings, a testament to his leadership qualities and revered status among his peers.
Life After Playing:
Following his retirement from professional hockey, Danny Gare transitioned into coaching, sharing his wealth of knowledge and experience with the next generation of players. He served as an assistant coach for the Buffalo Sabres and later as the head coach of the Spokane Chiefs in the Western Hockey League. Gare’s passion for the game continued to shine through in his coaching endeavors, as he imparted invaluable wisdom to aspiring young athletes.
In conclusion, Danny Gare’s impact on the NHL extends far beyond the rinks he graced during his illustrious career. He remains a revered figure in the hockey community, revered for his on-ice heroics, leadership qualities, and unwavering dedication to the sport. As fans, we are privileged to have witnessed the extraordinary journey of this hockey luminary, whose legacy will endure for generations to come.
Thanks for your time. Please leave comments and suggestions below.
