Al Sims is a former professional ice hockey player and coach who had a successful career in the sport. He played as a defenseman for various teams in the National Hockey League (NHL) and the World Hockey Association (WHA) during the 1970s and 1980s.
Sims began his professional career in 1974 when he was signed by the Boston Bruins of the NHL. He played for the Bruins for two seasons before being traded to the New York Islanders in 1976. He played for the Islanders for one season before being traded again, this time to the Los Angeles Kings.
Sims played for the Kings for four seasons and was known for his physical style of play. He was a tough defenseman who was not afraid to get into fights and was known for his ability to deliver hard hits. He was also a solid defensive player who was good at blocking shots and clearing the puck out of his own zone.
In 1980, Sims left the NHL and joined the Edmonton Oilers of the WHA. He played for the Oilers for two seasons before the league folded and the team joined the NHL. Sims continued to play for the Oilers in the NHL and was a key player on the team's defense. He helped the Oilers win their first Stanley Cup championship in 1984 and was a member of the team for two more championship wins in 1985 and 1987.
After retiring as a player, Sims became a coach and had a successful career in that role as well. He began his coaching career in 1988 as an assistant coach for the Minnesota North Stars. He then became the head coach of the San Diego Gulls of the International Hockey League (IHL) in 1990 and led the team to a championship in his first season.
Sims went on to coach several other teams in the IHL and the American Hockey League (AHL), including the Milwaukee Admirals, the Grand Rapids Griffins, and the Worcester IceCats. He also served as an assistant coach for the St. Louis Blues of the NHL for two seasons.
Throughout his career, Sims was known for his toughness, his defensive skills, and his ability to motivate and lead his teams. He was a respected player and coach who had a significant impact on the sport of ice hockey.
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