So Long Shanny ...

Wednesday afternoon Larry Brooks reported that Brendan Shanahan has decided to open his options to teams other than the Rangers, since Glen Sather hasn't tendered an offer. Shanahan was proud to wear the Blueshirt and wanted to keep it on so he showed incredible patience and it simply didn't pay off. Hopefully it will pay off for him as he has one less month of wear and tear to start the season. I've looked at the pros and cons of re-signing him, I've sent him to court, I suggested he be player/coach ... I guess there is nothing left to do but wish him the best wherever he ends up.

With New York out of the picture, Puck Daddy and I share the same hope that Shanny returns to Detroit. I can't speak to Wysh's wishes but I want him to head to the Wings for several reasons:

1 - The Detroit fans appreciate Shanny as much as we did in New York and a classy veteran such as himself should be properly revered.

2 - The Red Wings are almost assured a playoff spot and are a likely contender for the Cup. It would be great to see Shanny get a chance to go out on top.

3 - Another Stanley Cup with the Wings may just be enough to get his #14 raised to the rafters of the Joe. The Hall of Fame is waiting for him but he has bounced around too much to cement a legacy with any one franchise. A fourth Cup in Motown could certainly help that cause. Few players in the history of hockey have had as much of an impact as Shanahan (he did help rewrite the rules to revive the game after the lockout) and most every one of them has had their numbers go up - Plante, Orr, Mikita, Howe, Gretzky, et. al.

4 - What could make the Winter Classic more special than having two of the game's elder statesmen in Shanny and Chelios out on the Wrigley Field ice having fun like they're kids again?

5 - And could you imagine Shanny skating on the Garden ice one last time ... in the Stanley Cup Finals?

Hey, a man can dream.

Hopefully Shanny's dream of playing in the NHL keeps coming true and he ends up on his feet, even if it isn't in New York or the Motor City. Best wishes Brendan and good luck ...

 "So Long Shanny: Brendan Shanahan's Impact on Hockey and Beyond"

In the world of hockey, few names resonate as deeply as Brendan Shanahan's. Known for his exceptional skills on the ice and his passion for the game, Shanahan has made a lasting impact on the sport both as a player and as an influential figure off the rink. As we bid farewell to a legendary career, this article explores Brendan Shanahan's remarkable journey, his contributions to hockey, and the legacy he leaves behind.

The Early Years

The Makings of a Star

Brendan Shanahan was born on January 23, 1969, in Mimico, Ontario, Canada. His early years were marked by a love for hockey, and he displayed exceptional talent from a young age. Shanahan's dedication to the game, combined with his natural ability, set him on a path to stardom.

Junior Hockey Success

Shanahan's journey to the NHL began in junior hockey, where he played for the London Knights of the Ontario Hockey League (OHL). He quickly established himself as a scoring sensation, showcasing his scoring touch and physical play—a combination that would become his trademark in the NHL.

The NHL Career

A Prolific Scorer

Shanahan made his NHL debut with the New Jersey Devils in the 1987-88 season. Throughout his career, he played for several teams, including the St. Louis Blues, Hartford Whalers, Detroit Red Wings, and New York Rangers. His scoring prowess earned him accolades, including eight 30-plus goal seasons and three 40-plus goal seasons.

The Physical Presence

One of Shanahan's defining attributes was his physicality. He was not only a skilled goal scorer but also a player who wasn't afraid to engage in the physical aspects of the game. His ability to contribute offensively while maintaining a physical presence made him a formidable force on the ice.

Championships and Leadership

Shanahan's time with the Detroit Red Wings was particularly fruitful. He won three Stanley Cup championships (1997, 1998, 2002) with the Red Wings, solidifying his reputation as a clutch performer. His leadership on and off the ice was instrumental in Detroit's success during that era.

Beyond the Ice

The Ambassador

Shanahan's influence on the game extended beyond his playing career. He was a prominent figure in the NHL Players' Association and played a key role in labor negotiations, helping to establish better conditions for players. His ability to bridge the gap between players and management was a testament to his leadership qualities.

A Visionary Leader

In 2009, Brendan Shanahan retired as a player and transitioned into a front-office role with the NHL. He was appointed the NHL's Vice President of Hockey and Business Development and later became the Senior Vice President of Player Safety and Hockey Operations. In this role, he was responsible for player discipline and rule enforcement, helping to make the game safer.

The Shanaplan

Shanahan's most significant off-ice impact came as the President and Alternate Governor of the Toronto Maple Leafs. Under his leadership, the team embarked on a comprehensive rebuild known as the "Shanaplan." This involved drafting and developing young talent, emphasizing analytics, and creating a new culture within the organization.

Legacy and Impact

A Hall of Famer

In 2013, Brendan Shanahan was inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame, solidifying his place among the sport's all-time greats. His Hall of Fame induction recognized not only his exceptional playing career but also his contributions to the game's growth and development.

Changing the Game

Shanahan's work in player safety and rule enforcement significantly impacted the NHL. He implemented new rules and policies to reduce dangerous plays and protect players. His efforts contributed to a safer and more controlled style of play.

The Shanaplan's Success

While Shanahan's tenure with the Toronto Maple Leafs had its ups and downs, the "Shanaplan" ultimately bore fruit. The Leafs became a playoff contender, and the team's prospects and young talent flourished, offering hope to a passionate fan base.

FAQs About Brendan Shanahan

1. How many Stanley Cups did Brendan Shanahan win as a player?

Brendan Shanahan won three Stanley Cup championships during his playing career. He achieved this feat with the Detroit Red Wings in the years 1997, 1998, and 2002.

2. What was the "Shanaplan" in Toronto Maple Leafs' history?

The "Shanaplan" was a comprehensive rebuild strategy initiated by Brendan Shanahan during his tenure as the President of the Toronto Maple Leafs. It involved drafting and developing young talent, emphasizing analytics, and creating a new culture within the organization to build a competitive team.

3. What was Brendan Shanahan's role in the NHL's Player Safety Department?

As the Senior Vice President of Player Safety and Hockey Operations for the NHL, Brendan Shanahan was responsible for player discipline and rule enforcement. He implemented measures to improve player safety and reduce dangerous plays in the game.

4. Is Brendan Shanahan still involved in the NHL?

As of my last knowledge update in September 2021, Brendan Shanahan remained actively involved in the NHL in his role as the President and Alternate Governor of the Toronto Maple Leafs. However, please verify his current status as it may have changed since then.

5. How did Brendan Shanahan impact the NHL Players' Association?

Brendan Shanahan played a prominent role in the NHL Players' Association, where he was involved in labor negotiations and efforts to improve conditions for players. His ability to bridge the gap between players and management was instrumental in achieving better agreements.

Brendan Shanahan's departure from the world of professional hockey marks the end of an era for a player and leader who left an indelible mark on the sport. From his prolific goal-scoring career to his pioneering work in player safety and his transformative leadership with the Toronto Maple Leafs, Shanahan's impact resonates far beyond the rink. He will be remembered as a Hall of Famer, a visionary leader, and a driving force behind positive change in the game of hockey. As fans bid farewell, Shanahan's legacy endures, reminding us that the love for the game and the commitment to its betterment can shape a lasting and impactful career. So long, Shanny, and thank you for everything.