I’m just going to say it. Wendel Clark is one of the best Toronto Maple Leafs of all time. He is a Canadian hockey legend and played for the Leafs from 1985 to 1994. He was traded to Quebec Nordiques for Matts Sundin but only played there for one season. He played the next year with the New York Islanders before coming back to the Leafs from 1995 to 1998. He ended his NHL career in 2000 playing in only twenty games for the Leafs. He was the Maple Leaf captain from 1991to 1994.
Hockey History of Wendel Clark
Wendel Clark was born in Kelvington Saskatchewan in 1966 and played his junior hockey for the Saskatoon Blades from 1983 to 1985. Clark played in the 1985 World Junior Hockey tournament scoring 5 points in 7 games. He was the first overall draft pick in the 1985 draft and the rest is history. Originally a defenceman he was switched to forward because the Leafs needed some help upfront. He would never look back. Watching him play was always fun, he had a great wrist shot and he threw out some mean body checks.
King Clancy, a Maple Leafs legend himself, once called Clark the greatest NHL rookie in fifty years. Clark played for the Leafs during the tyrannical reign of Harold Ballard and despite that fact he managed to be a fan favorite and a great Leaf. Clark’s dedication to the Toronto Maple Leafs was unparalleled. He always strived to be a leader, both on the ice and off. His experience and dedication to the game enabled him to show younger players how to take charge and be successful in their own careers. Through his hard work and resilience, he set an example which saw him become one of only 17 players ever to have a banner raised to the rafters of Air Canada Centre.
Playing in 793 NHL games Wendel Clark scored 330 goals and combined with 234 assists he had an impressive career total of 564 points. Oh, and did I mention that he was a pretty good fighter. He was tenacious and would never back down…..it didn’t matter to Wendel who was on the other side of his fists. He ended up with a total of 1,690 penalty minutes. Now that is the kind of player that everybody wants on their team.
He is also remembered for being consistent and reliable, a trait that is so valuable to any team. While he may have been quietly determined in his approach, his performances never failed to inspire. He was also a big believer in building a strong mentorship culture and was often seen spending time with younger players to help develop their hockey skills.
Today, Wendel Clark is considered one of the most iconic and influential Toronto Maple Leafs players of all time. He was invaluable to the team, both on and off the ice. His legacy is felt to this day and his contribution to the Leafs’ long-standing history of excellence will be remembered forever.
Who is your favorite Leaf? Leave a comment below and then have a great day.
