Bob Baun was a Canadian professional ice hockey player who played as a defenseman in the National Hockey League (NHL) for 17 seasons. He was born on September 9, 1936, in Lanigan, Saskatchewan, Canada. Baun began his hockey career with the Toronto Maple Leafs in 1956 and played with them until 1967. He then played for the Oakland Seals, Detroit Red Wings, and Buffalo Sabres before returning to the Maple Leafs in 1970. Baun retired from professional hockey in 1973 but returned to play for the Birmingham Bulls of the World Hockey Association (WHA) in 1975.
Baun was known for his physical style of play and his ability to block shots. He was a tough and fearless player who was not afraid to put his body on the line for his team. Baun was also a skilled defenseman who could move the puck up the ice and contribute offensively. He scored 37 goals and 187 assists in his NHL career.
Baun's most famous moment came in the 1964 Stanley Cup Finals when he scored the game-winning goal in overtime of Game 6 while playing with a broken ankle. Baun had been injured earlier in the game but refused to leave the ice. He scored the winning goal on a slap shot from the point, giving the Maple Leafs their third consecutive Stanley Cup championship. Baun's heroics earned him a place in hockey history and cemented his legacy as one of the toughest players to ever play the game.
Baun was also a three-time NHL All-Star and won two Norris Trophies as the league's best defenseman. He was a key member of the Maple Leafs' championship teams in the 1960s and was known for his leadership and toughness. Baun was inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 1986.
After retiring from hockey, Baun worked as a coach and scout for various teams. He also owned a sports bar in Toronto and was involved in various charitable organizations. Baun passed away on November 9, 2016, at the age of 80.
In conclusion, Bob Baun was a legendary defenseman who played with grit, determination, and skill. He was a key member of the Toronto Maple Leafs' championship teams in the 1960s and will always be remembered for his heroics in the 1964 Stanley Cup Finals. Baun's legacy as one of the toughest players to ever play the game will live on in hockey history.
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