LaFontaine was already a three-time All-Star with the New York Islanders, whom he debuted for in 1983. The Islanders were no longer the powerhouse they used to be, and they traded him to the Sabres in 1991 and remained a productive scorer with a 93-Point campaign in 1991-92 in only 57 Games. Ultimately healthy in 1992-93, LaFontaine had 148 Points and was a Second Team All-Star. The Center was also third for both the Lady Byng and the Hart Trophy. This season is, to date, the best statistical year ever by a Buffalo skater. Sadly, LaFontaine was not able to build on that incredible year.
Concussions and other injuries held LaFontaine to only 38 Games over the next two years. Awarded the Bill Masterton Trophy for his perseverance in 1994-95, he was healthy again in 1994-96 with a 91 Point year. Another concussion derailed him the following year, and the Sabres traded him to the New York Rangers, where he played one final season before retiring for good.
With the Sabres, LaFontaine scored 385 Points in 268 Games for a phenomenal 1.44 Points per Game.
LaFontaine was chosen for the Hockey Hall of Fame in 2003, and three years later, his number 16 was hung from the rafters. The Sabres enshrined LaFontaine into their Hall of Fame in 2005.
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