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A ‘Killer’ hero for my generation

Written by: Jesse Michael on 5th February 2009

PHOTO BY SCOTT VANKOUGHNETT

Former Leafs captain, Doug Gilmour has his work cut out for him as head coach of the Kingston Frontenacs | read this item

#93. Dougie. Dougie G. Killer.

Mention any of these words to a Maple Leafs fan and they will know that you’re talking about one of the greatest Leafs to ever suit in up in the blue and white, Doug Gilmour.

Growing up in “Bobby Orr country”, many of the older population in the town grew up idolizing Orr for his prowess on the ice, and his uncanny ability to play the game at an extremely high level.

However, for much of the younger generation, post 1980’s, there were no local or Leafs heroes to cheer for. All we heard from our parents were the stories of how Orr changed the culture of post-expansion hockey and how he revitalized the game in the ‘70’s.

Many became fans of Orr and his Boston Bruins, as the Leafs were never really able to put together a supporting cast around any of their star players since their last cup win in 1967.

Gilmour carried the team on his back, scoring 127 points and leading them to third place in the division.

The culture in the Leafs organization began to change when blue chip prospect Wendel Clark was drafted in 1985. Clark was a force in the league, dominating many aspects of the game. Nevertheless, something had to be done to help push the Leafs towards the greatness that the fans craved.

Then. It happened. The franchise saviour was found.

In dramatic fashion, then recently hired general manager Cliff Fletcher pulled off the largest trade in NHL history at the deadline in 1992. Most notably, the Leafs acquired Gilmour, Jamie Macoun, and three other players in a 10-player deal with the Calgary Flames.

Gilmour paid immediate dividends as he amassed 40 points in 43 games to end the 1991-92 season. This gave Leaf fans great hope for the ‘92 season as they could see their team shaping up to make a playoff run.

Relishing every moment of the ’92-93 season, Gilmour carried the team on his back, scoring 127 points and leading them to third place in the division. Entering the playoffs, no one gave the Leafs a chance. Douggie once again answered the bell, guiding them through the first two rounds into the semi-finals against Wayne Gretzky and the LA Kings.

Although the Leafs eventually lost in seven games, they created a buzz in the city that hadn’t been seen in over three decades.

For myself, it was the first time I really remember watching hockey with family gathered around the TV. Faces painted. Popcorn popped.

It was also the creation of a hero for a new generation of Leaf fans, as they were captivated by the heart and desire of Gilmour. This was most evident in the second round against the St. Louis Blues, as he scored one of the most famous goals in Leaf history on a wrap-around on Curtis Joseph.

Watching this era of Leaf hockey makes me wonder what player will captivate the new generation of fans. They have no Wendel Clark’s, Doug Gilmour’s, or Mats Sundin’s to get excited about anymore, and it remains to be seen when they will.

For OpenIceHockey.com, I’m Jesse Michael

Topics: Bobby Orr, Boston Bruins, Cliff Fletcher, Curtis Joseph, Doug Gilmour, NHL, Toronto Maple Leafs, Wendel Clark

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