
On August 16, NHL history witnessed several significant events that left a lasting impact on the league. Among the most notable was the 1996 trade of Jeremy Roenick from the Chicago Blackhawks to the Phoenix Coyotes. Roenick, a three-time 100-point scorer for Chicago, was a fan favorite and one of the most dynamic players of his era. His departure marked a major shift for both teams, with the Coyotes acquiring a player who would become central to their franchise for years to come.
Fast forward to 2017, another pivotal moment on this date occurred when Leon Draisaitl signed an eight-year contract with the Edmonton Oilers. At just 21 years old, Draisaitl had already established himself as a top talent, and this deal signaled the Oilers’ commitment to building a championship team around him and fellow star Connor McDavid. Draisaitl would go on to lead the NHL in scoring in the 2019-2020 season, becoming the first German-born player to achieve this feat.
Other notable events on August 16 include the birth of hockey legends such as Eddie Olczyk in 1966, who would go on to have an impressive on-ice career before transitioning to a successful broadcasting role. Additionally, the Detroit Red Wings made a significant trade in 1949, acquiring Pete Babando, who would score the Stanley Cup-winning goal in 1950.
August 16 is a date rich with NHL history, featuring trades, signings, and the births of players who would shape the league’s future. These moments continue to resonate with fans and remind us of the ever-evolving nature of hockey.