The history of the NHL is rich with significant events, and July 14 is no exception. On this date, several key moments have left a lasting impact on the league and its teams.
Phil Esposito Rejoins the Rangers as GM (1986) On July 14, 1986, Phil Esposito, a legendary figure in the hockey world, officially became the general manager of the New York Rangers. At 44 years old, Esposito replaced Craig Patrick and also took on the role of vice president. Esposito’s tenure as GM was marked by his pledge to bring the Stanley Cup back to New York, although this goal remained unfulfilled during his time with the Rangers.
Grant Fuhr Signs with the Blues (1995) Another notable event on this date was the signing of Grant Fuhr by the St. Louis Blues in 1995. Fuhr, a four-time Stanley Cup champion with the Edmonton Oilers, set an NHL record for goaltenders by appearing in 79 games during his first season with the Blues, including 76 consecutive games. His performance cemented his legacy as one of the most durable and reliable goalies in NHL history.
Pat Quinn Adds GM Role (1999) On July 14, 1999, Pat Quinn, who was already the head coach of the Toronto Maple Leafs, took on the additional role of general manager. This move made him the only active GM/coach in the NHL at the time. Quinn held both positions until 2003, when John Ferguson replaced him as GM, but Quinn continued as coach until 2006.
These events highlight the dynamic and ever-evolving nature of the NHL, showcasing the impactful decisions and moves that shape the league’s history. Stay updated with more historical highlights and current NHL news by bookmarking nhltraderumor.com and signing up for our newsletter.
