The “Finnish Flash” had one of the most spectacular rookie seasons in NHL history. Teemu Selanne scored a whopping 76 goals and 132 points for the Winnipeg Jets and became an instant sensation. Statistically, Selanne did not reach those heights again, although he would have three more seasons where he hit the century mark in points. Selanne remained a star into his 40’s and was putting pucks in the net at an age where many people struggle to get off of the couch

A long time player for the Phoenix Coyotes, Shane Doan starred in the desert for what seemed like an eternity. He is a good scorer, but what he is mostly known for in Phoenix is his long term leadership for the franchise. Doan was never in the top ten in scoring, but he was selected anyway to multiple National teams for Canada and scored the game-winning goal against Finland to win the 2004 World Cup. Doan has long been considered a player you want in your dressing room, though this might not necessarily translate into a Hall of Fame career though does make him the best Arizona Coyote ever.

With a devastating wrist shot and smooth skating skills, Sergei Gonchar has quietly put together a very good career in professional hockey. Gonchar is a four-time All-Star and has had eight seasons with 50 points or more, which is very impressive for a defenseman. With over twenty campaigns in the National Hockey League, Gonchar had a great career, but without that elusive Norris Trophy, the Russian may not be considered for the Hall despite being a two-time Second Team All-Star. Perhaps his four All-Star Appearances and international play with Russia will assist his chances.

From Banff, Alberta, Ryan Smyth would play for his home province, the Edmonton Oilers, for the first eleven and a half seasons of his career.  Smyth would become one of the Oilers’ top scorers, known for his determination and scoring ability.  Smyth would have three 30 Goal seasons for the Oilers, and he was regarded by many as the team leader, taking Edmonton to the Stanley Cup Finals, though they would go down to defeat in seven games against the Carolina Hurricanes.  Smyth would be traded the following season to the New York Islanders, and afterward he would sign with the Colorado Avalanche as a Free Agent.  Smyth would return to Edmonton, where he would finish his career.