Vic Lynn’s NHL career stands as a testament to his versatility and adaptability on the ice. Making his debut with the New York Rangers in the 1942-1943 season, Lynn embarked on an extraordinary journey that saw him become the only player to play on all six original NHL teams. His nomadic career took him from the Rangers to the Detroit Red Wings, Montreal Canadiens, Toronto Maple Leafs, Boston Bruins and finally the Chicago Black Hawks.
The Early Years:
Born on February 26, 1925, in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Vic Lynn’s hockey journey began like many Canadian youngsters of his time, on frozen ponds and local rinks. He had a short junior career with the Saskatoon Quakers that included a Memorial Cup appearance in 1942. Vic started his NHL journey with a one game trial with the New York Rangers of the National Hockey League (NHL) the next year, but ended up finishing the season with the New York Rovers of the Eastern Hockey League.
Lynn’s next stop in the NHL was with the Detroit Red Wings where he played three games in the 1943/44 season. During the 1945/46 season, he spent two games with the Montreal Canadiens.
Success With The Toronto Maple Leafs:
Vic got his biggest NHL break the next year (1946/47). While playing in Buffalo in the American Hockey League he was noticed by Leaf General Manager Conn Smythe and he was picked up by the Leafs. Vic became part of the famous “KLM” line with Toronto that saw him and his line- mates, Ted Kennedy and Howie Meeker, lead Toronto to three Stanley Cups. During his time with the Maple Leafs Vic played in NHL All-Star games in 1947, 1948, and 1949.
After success with the Leafs, Lynn’s career had him going back and forth from the NHL to various minor leagues. During these years he did manage to play another 120 games in the NHL with the Boston Bruins and Chicago Black Hawks. He last appeared in the NHL in the 1953/54 season.
Later Years:
After bouncing around between the NHL and minor leagues, Vic returned to Saskatoon to play for the Quakers. He later transitioned into coaching and management, leading the team to multiple championships in the Saskatchewan Senior Hockey League and appearances in the Allan Cup in 1960 and 1962. Vic Lynn died on December 6, 2010 at the age of 85.
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