Edmonton Oilers Toughest Players: A Retrospective
The Edmonton Oilers have a rich history of producing tough hockey players. From the days of the legendary Oilers teams of the 1980s to the present day, the team has been home to some of the NHL’s most feared enforcers and hard-nosed players. In this retrospective, we take a look at some of Edmonton Oilers toughest players and the impact they had on the game.
One of the most iconic tough guys in Edmonton Oilers history is Dave Semenko. A fan favourite, Semenko was a key member of the Oilers dynasty of the 1980s. He was known for his fearless play and willingness to stand up for his teammates. Semenko was a feared fighter but also a skilled player who could contribute offensively. He scored a career-high 14 goals in the 1982-83 season and played a key role in the Edmonton Oilers Stanley Cup wins in 1984 and 1985.
Another tough player who made his mark for the Edmonton Oilers was Georges Laraque. Laraque was a massive enforcer who could intimidate opponents with his size and strength. He was also a skilled player who could chip in offensively when needed. Laraque played for the Oilers from 1998 to 2006 and was known for his physical play and willingness to stick up for his teammates.
More recently, Zack Kassian has emerged as one of the Oilers toughest players. Kassian is a hard-nosed forward who plays a physical game and isn’t afraid to drop the gloves. He’s become a fan favourite in Edmonton for his tough play and his ability to score a few clutch goals. Kassian played a key role in the Oilers’ playoff run in 2017, scoring two game-winning goals in the first round.
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These are just a few of the tough players who have made their mark in Edmonton over the years. From Semenko to Laraque to Kassian, these players have embodied the tough, hard-nosed style of play that has long been associated with Edmonton hockey. While the game may have evolved over the years, the city’s love for tough, physical play has remained a constant.