Dean Hopkins was a professional ice hockey player who played as a center. He was born on May 29, 1963, in Thunder Bay, Ontario, Canada. Hopkins started his hockey career in the Ontario Hockey League (OHL) with the Sault Ste. Marie Greyhounds in 1979. He played for the Greyhounds for three seasons, from 1979 to 1982, and was a key player in the team's success during that time.
In 1982, Hopkins was drafted by the Minnesota North Stars in the second round of the NHL Entry Draft. He made his NHL debut with the North Stars in the 1982-83 season and played for the team for four seasons. During his time with the North Stars, Hopkins was known for his physical play and his ability to score goals. He was a valuable player for the team and helped them reach the Stanley Cup Finals in 1984.
In 1986, Hopkins was traded to the Philadelphia Flyers, where he played for two seasons. He continued to be a productive player for the Flyers, scoring 20 goals in the 1987-88 season. However, his time with the Flyers was marred by injuries, and he was forced to retire from professional hockey in 1989 at the age of 26.
Despite his relatively short career, Hopkins was a talented player who made a significant impact on the teams he played for. He was known for his toughness and his ability to score goals, and he was a fan favorite wherever he played. After retiring from hockey, Hopkins remained involved in the sport as a coach and a scout. He also worked as a firefighter in his hometown of Thunder Bay.
Overall, Dean Hopkins was a talented and hardworking hockey player who made a significant impact on the teams he played for. Despite his early retirement, he remains a beloved figure in the hockey world and is remembered for his toughness, his scoring ability, and his dedication to the sport.
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