Ken Linseman, also known as the "Rat," was a professional ice hockey player who played in the National Hockey League (NHL) for over a decade. He was born on August 11, 1958, in Kingston, Ontario, Canada, and began his hockey career playing for the Kingston Canadians in the Ontario Hockey League (OHL).
Linseman was known for his aggressive style of play and his ability to get under the skin of his opponents. He was a skilled playmaker and had a knack for setting up his teammates for goals. He was also a solid defensive player and was often used on the penalty kill.
Linseman was drafted by the Philadelphia Flyers in the first round of the 1978 NHL Entry Draft. He made his NHL debut in the 1978-79 season and quickly established himself as a valuable player for the Flyers. He helped the team reach the Stanley Cup Finals in his rookie season, but they ultimately lost to the Montreal Canadiens.
In 1982, Linseman was traded to the Edmonton Oilers, where he played alongside some of the greatest players in NHL history, including Wayne Gretzky, Mark Messier, and Jari Kurri. He played a key role in helping the Oilers win their first Stanley Cup championship in the 1983-84 season.
After four seasons with the Oilers, Linseman was traded to the Boston Bruins in 1986. He continued to be a productive player for the Bruins, helping them reach the Stanley Cup Finals in the 1987-88 season. However, they lost to the Oilers in a rematch of the 1984 Finals.
Linseman played his final NHL season with the Toronto Maple Leafs in 1990-91 before retiring from professional hockey. Over the course of his NHL career, he played in 860 games, scored 256 goals, and recorded 697 points.
Off the ice, Linseman was known for his outgoing personality and his willingness to speak his mind. He was never afraid to speak his opinion, even if it meant ruffling some feathers. He was also known for his charitable work and was involved in numerous community initiatives throughout his career.
In conclusion, Ken Linseman was a talented and tenacious player who made a significant impact on the NHL during his career. He was a key contributor to several championship teams and was respected by his teammates and opponents alike. His legacy as a player and a person continues to be felt in the hockey world today.
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