John Ferguson was a Canadian ice hockey player and executive who had a successful career in the sport. He played as a left winger for the Montreal Canadiens, New York Rangers, and the WHA's Winnipeg Jets. He was known for his physical style of play and his ability to score goals.
Ferguson began his professional career with the Montreal Canadiens in 1963. He quickly established himself as a tough player who was not afraid to get into fights on the ice. He was also a skilled scorer, and he helped the Canadiens win five Stanley Cup championships during his time with the team.
In 1971, Ferguson was traded to the New York Rangers. He played for the Rangers for two seasons before retiring from playing in 1973. After his playing career ended, Ferguson became a coach and executive in the NHL.
Ferguson's most successful stint as an executive came with the Winnipeg Jets of the WHA. He was the team's general manager from 1978 to 1988, and he helped the team win three Avco Cup championships. He was also responsible for drafting future NHL stars such as Dale Hawerchuk and Thomas Steen.
Ferguson's career was not without controversy. He was known for his aggressive style of play, and he was involved in several on-ice incidents that led to suspensions and fines. He was also criticized for his role in the infamous "Good Friday Massacre" in 1984, when a brawl broke out between the Canadiens and the Quebec Nordiques.
Despite these controversies, Ferguson was widely respected in the hockey world for his knowledge of the game and his ability to build winning teams. He was inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 1987, and his legacy as a player and executive continues to be felt in the sport today.
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