NHL - New York Rangers Trivia

Mike Richter's number 35 was retired by the New York Rangers and now hangs from the rafters of Madison Square Garden. Richter played for the Rangers from 1988 to 2003 and is best remembered for his outstanding performance during the 1993-94 season, when he led the team to their first Stanley Cup victory in 54 years. Richter's agility, reflexes, and clutch performances in crucial games made him one of the greatest goaltenders in Rangers history. He also represented the United States in international competitions, including the 1996 World Cup of Hockey, where he was named MVP​.

Brian Leetch won the Calder Trophy as the NHL's top rookie in 1989. Leetch's debut season was outstanding, as he demonstrated remarkable offensive and defensive skills. He scored 23 goals and provided 48 assists, making a total of 71 points, which was a record for rookie defensemen at the time. His performance earned him the Calder Trophy and set the stage for a Hall of Fame career. Leetch became one of the most beloved and successful players in Rangers history, playing a crucial role in their 1994 Stanley Cup win​.

Phil Esposito was traded to the New York Rangers from the Boston Bruins on November 7, 1975. This blockbuster trade saw Esposito, along with Carol Vadnais, move to the Rangers in exchange for Brad Park, Jean Ratelle, and Joe Zanussi. Esposito was one of the most prolific scorers in NHL history and had achieved tremendous success with the Bruins, including winning two Stanley Cups and multiple scoring titles. His acquisition was a significant move for the Rangers as they looked to bolster their offensive firepower​.

Frank Boucher, a center for the New York Rangers, won the Lady Byng Trophy for sportsmanship and gentlemanly conduct seven times in eight years during the 1930s. Boucher was known for his clean play and exceptional skill on the ice, making him one of the most respected players of his time. His record for the most Lady Byng Trophies stood for many years and is a testament to his fair play and sportsmanship. Boucher also played a key role in the Rangers' Stanley Cup victories in 1928 and 1933.

After winning the Stanley Cup in the 1939-40 season, the New York Rangers celebrated by burning the mortgage papers of Madison Square Garden inside the Stanley Cup. This act symbolized the team's financial liberation, as they had paid off the mortgage on their home arena. The 1939-40 championship was the Rangers' third Stanley Cup victory, and this unique celebration added a memorable chapter to the team's history. Unfortunately, it would be the Rangers' last Stanley Cup win for 54 years, leading to various superstitions about the event​.

Bill Cook served as the first captain of the New York Rangers from their inaugural season in 1926 until his retirement in 1937. Cook was a legendary right winger and one of the most dominant players of his time. Under his leadership, the Rangers won their first Stanley Cup in 1928 and another in 1933. Cook's scoring ability, leadership qualities, and dedication to the team helped establish the Rangers as a competitive force in the early years of the NHL.

Jean-Guy Talbot, who coached the New York Rangers during the 1977-1978 season, faced ridicule from fans when he wore a leisure suit to a game. The fans booed and chanted "Let's go Penguins," showing their disapproval of his attire and perhaps the team's performance. Talbot had a difficult tenure with the Rangers, and his sartorial choice on that occasion became a notable moment in the team's history. His time with the Rangers was short-lived, as he was replaced after one season.

Vic Hadfield set a New York Rangers record by scoring 50 goals in just 70 games during the 1971-1972 season. Hadfield was part of the famous "GAG Line" (Goal-A-Game Line) with Jean Ratelle and Rod Gilbert. His scoring prowess helped the Rangers reach the Stanley Cup Finals that year. Hadfield's 50-goal season was a milestone achievement for the franchise and highlighted his significant contribution to the team's offensive success.

Adam Graves set a team record by scoring 52 goals during the 1993-94 season. Graves' record-setting performance was instrumental in the Rangers' success that year, culminating in their historic Stanley Cup victory, the first for the team in 54 years. Graves was known for his gritty play, leadership, and ability to score clutch goals, making him a fan favorite and a key player during the Rangers' championship run.

Jean Ratelle, the captain of the New York Rangers, broke his ankle during the 1971-1972 playoffs when a shot taken by his teammate Dale Rolfe hit Ratelle's right leg, cracking a bone just above his ankle. This injury was a significant setback for the Rangers, as Ratelle was having an outstanding season and was a crucial part of the team's success. Despite Ratelle's absence, the Rangers managed to advance to the Stanley Cup Finals, where they ultimately lost to the Boston Bruins. Ratelle's injury highlighted the physical risks players face and underscored his importance to the team

Bryan Hextall scored the winning overtime goal in Game 6 of the 1939-1940 Stanley Cup Finals, securing the championship for the New York Rangers. The goal came against the Toronto Maple Leafs and clinched the Rangers' third Stanley Cup title. Hextall's goal is one of the most famous moments in Rangers history, symbolizing their hard-fought victory and resilience. His heroics in the finals cemented his place as a key figure in the team's storied past​.

Dave Kerr, the star goaltender for the New York Rangers, appeared on the cover of "Time" magazine on February 1, 1937. He became the second hockey player to achieve this honor, following Howie Morenz in 1934. Kerr's performance during the 1936-37 season was exceptional, and he played a crucial role in leading the Rangers to the top of the American Division. His recognition on the cover highlighted his impact on the sport and his significant contributions to the team's success during that era​.

The Boston Bruins swept the New York Rangers in the 1928-1929 Stanley Cup Finals, winning the series 2-0. This victory marked the first Stanley Cup championship for the Bruins. The finals were a best-of-three series, and the Bruins won both games decisively, shutting out the Rangers in both contests. The Rangers, who were making their second appearance in the finals since their inception, were unable to overcome the Bruins' strong defense and goaltending.

Toe Blake, the coach of the Montreal Canadiens, reportedly made the statement in 1941 that the New York Rangers wouldn't win the Stanley Cup again while he lived. This comment became part of hockey folklore as the Rangers experienced a lengthy championship drought. Blake was a legendary figure in hockey, both as a player and a coach, leading the Canadiens to numerous Stanley Cup victories. The Rangers' drought lasted until 1994, long after Blake's passing in 1995, making his prediction seem eerily accurate.

Scott Gomez led the New York Rangers in assists during the 2007-08 season, with a total of 54 assists. Gomez was known for his playmaking ability and vision on the ice, which helped him become a key contributor to the Rangers' offense. His passing skills and ability to create scoring opportunities for his teammates were crucial in helping the team reach the playoffs that season​.