Johnny Wilson was a Canadian professional ice hockey player and coach who had a successful career spanning over three decades. He was born on June 14, 1929, in Kincardine, Ontario, Canada. Wilson began his hockey career in the Ontario Hockey Association (OHA) with the Guelph Biltmore Mad Hatters in 1947. He played for several teams in the OHA, including the Stratford Kroehlers, the Kitchener Greenshirts, and the Guelph Biltmores.
In 1951, Wilson signed with the Detroit Red Wings of the National Hockey League (NHL). He played for the Red Wings for six seasons, from 1951 to 1957, and won three Stanley Cup championships with the team in 1952, 1954, and 1955. Wilson was known for his physical play and his ability to score goals. He was a consistent scorer for the Red Wings, scoring 20 or more goals in four of his six seasons with the team.
After leaving the Red Wings, Wilson played for several other NHL teams, including the Chicago Blackhawks, the Toronto Maple Leafs, and the New York Rangers. He also played for the Los Angeles Blades of the Western Hockey League (WHL) and the San Francisco Seals of the American Hockey League (AHL).
In 1963, Wilson retired from playing and became a coach. He began his coaching career with the Houston Apollos of the Central Professional Hockey League (CPHL). He then coached the Memphis Wings of the AHL and the San Diego Gulls of the WHL. In 1969, Wilson was hired as the head coach of the Los Angeles Kings of the NHL. He coached the Kings for three seasons, from 1969 to 1972, and led the team to the playoffs in his first season.
After leaving the Kings, Wilson coached several other teams, including the Pittsburgh Penguins, the Colorado Rockies, and the Detroit Red Wings. He also coached the Canadian national team at the 1976 Canada Cup tournament.
Wilson was known for his tough, no-nonsense coaching style. He was a disciplinarian who demanded hard work and dedication from his players. He was also known for his ability to develop young players and help them reach their full potential.
In addition to his coaching career, Wilson was also involved in the construction industry. He owned a construction company in Kincardine, Ontario, and was involved in several building projects in the area.
Johnny Wilson passed away on July 27, 2011, at the age of 82. He was remembered as a tough, hard-working player and coach who made a significant impact on the game of hockey. His legacy lives on through his family, his former players, and the many people he touched throughout his life.
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