This is an interesting one for sure.

During World War II, there was certainly a level of what could be considered elite in professional hockey. Still, in the 1943-44 season, Herb Cain shocked the statisticians by becoming an NHL league leader with 82 Points.

He may not be on this list for his career statistics, which, although good (465 career points over 17 years), do not indicate a Hall of Famer.  However, Eddie Shack was one of the true characters of the game and, at times, the most popular. Shack could always be counted on to deliver a unique interview and perspective that was different from his contemporaries. Shack was even the subject of a novelty song (Clear the Track, Here Comes Eddie Shack) that went to number one on the Canadian charts. Shack was to many a “novelty” player himself, but anyone who can last as long as he did is certainly no gimmick.

A solid goal scorer during his stint with Montreal, Stephane Richer gave Montreal fans a blast from the past and hope for a future with a French Canadian offensive star playing for Les Habitants. Richer was the first Montreal player since Guy Lafleur to score 50 goals a season. Richer accomplished that feat twice and was known throughout the NHL for his blistering shot. Once Richer’s skills eroded, he lacked the intangibles to remain an effective player late in his career, and he bounced around the league. Still, Richer finished with 421 goals, won two Stanley Cup rings, and had an effective career.

Known for his strong defensive skills as a hockey player, Don Marshall did not naturally possess those skills. Upon joining the loaded Montreal Canadians, he was asked to focus on the defensive and checking attributes. It worked, and as Marshall would venture across various teams, he was able to use these newfound skills while still able to contribute on offense. A quiet leader and dependable asset, he was consistently regarded as a great teammate. He won’t make the Hall, but at some point, it would be nice if he received a few props from some of the teams he played for in the past.