Guy Lafleur

Guy Damien Lafleur was born on September 20, 1951, in Thurso, Quebec, Canada. He grew up idolizing NHL players like Jean Béliveau and Bobby Hull and began playing hockey at a young age. Lafleur's talent was evident early on, leading him to become a standout player in the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League before making the leap to the NHL.

On June 10, 1971, Guy Lafleur was drafted first overall by the Montreal Canadiens in the NHL Entry Draft. This was a highly anticipated selection due to Lafleur's outstanding junior career with the Quebec Remparts, where he scored a remarkable 130 goals in his final season. Lafleur was expected to fill the skates of the recently retired Canadiens legend Jean Béliveau.

On October 30, 1979, Guy Lafleur scored his 500th NHL goal, becoming the then-youngest player to reach this milestone. This achievement further cemented his status as one of the premier players in the league. Lafleur was known for his scoring prowess, fast skating, and his ability to perform in crucial moments, often leading the Canadiens to victory.

On November 24, 1981, Guy Lafleur broke Maurice "Rocket" Richard's longstanding record for most points as a Montreal Canadien. Lafleur was renowned for his offensive abilities, possessing a quick release and dynamic skating skills, which made him a dominant force throughout the 1970s and early 1980s.

Guy Lafleur announced his retirement from professional hockey on November 26, 1985. His decision came after a season affected by injuries and changing roles within the team. Lafleur left the game with a legacy as one of the all-time greats, a five-time Stanley Cup Champion, and as the holder of numerous Canadiens and NHL records.

Guy Lafleur was inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame on July 29, 1988. His induction was an acknowledgement of his extraordinary career and contributions to the game of hockey. Lafleur was applauded for his sportsmanship, his flair on the ice, and his ability to elevate the performance of his teammates, becoming a legend in Montreal Canadiens history.

On January 6, 1991, Guy Lafleur retired from the NHL for the second time. After briefly returning to the league in the 1988-89 season with the New York Rangers and later the Quebec Nordiques, Lafleur decided to retire for good. His second stint in the NHL was marked by his ability to still compete at a high level even in his late 30s. His legacy as one of hockey's greats remained unchallenged even after his final game.

Guy Lafleur passed away on April 22, 2022, at the age of 70. His death was mourned by fans, teammates, and the entire hockey community. Lafleur was remembered not only for his incredible career and his role in the Montreal Canadiens dynasty of the 1970s but also for his charisma and generosity off the ice, which left a lasting impact on those who knew him.