Happy Trails Paul

Paul Mara is officially off-Broadway, as he signed a deal today with the Montreal Canadiens.

Mara never lived up to expectations but proved himself a capable, consistent defenseman during his time in New York. While he wasted a ton of power play time - much like every other defenseman on the roster - Mara was good at getting the puck out of the zone, always willing to stand up for teammates and had one legendary beard.

There were good moments and bad; when he stood up for himself and got his revenge on Patrick Kaleta (and his subsequent goal against Buffalo the next game after that), and when Michael Sauer took the fall for him and was banished back to the AHL for Mara's mistakes. While the lumberjack may have set back Sauer's progress a bit, the impact that he had on Marc Staal will pay dividends for us for years to come. Mara helped show Staal the ropes and got him through his rookie season, turning the kid into a professional and (hopefully) a future Norris winner.

Mara never found chemistry with his old buddy Morris and was certain to see the door with the fresh crop of Blueshirt blueliners ready for harvest. Now the Boston-bred Mara is headed for Montreal so let's just wish him good luck with that ...

 "Happy Trails, Paul: Celebrating the Career and Legacy of Paul Mara"

In the world of professional ice hockey, players come and go, leaving behind a legacy of their contributions to the sport. Paul Mara is one such player whose career spanned over a decade and had a lasting impact on the teams he played for and the fans who cheered him on. In this article, we will celebrate the remarkable career of Paul Mara, reflect on his journey through the NHL, and address frequently asked questions (FAQs) related to this beloved player.

Section 1: The Early Days of Paul Mara

1. A Hockey Journey Begins

Paul Mara's journey in the world of ice hockey started as a young boy with a passion for the sport. Hailing from Ridgewood, New Jersey, he honed his skills on local rinks.

2. The Road to the NHL

Mara's talent and determination led him to be selected in the first round of the 1997 NHL Entry Draft by the Tampa Bay Lightning. This marked the beginning of his professional career.

Section 2: Paul Mara's Impact on the Ice

1. The Versatile Defenseman

Paul Mara was known for his versatility as a defenseman. He could play in various situations, including power plays and penalty kills, making him a valuable asset to his teams.

2. Leadership and Work Ethic

Mara's leadership qualities and strong work ethic were evident throughout his career. He led by example and was often looked up to by younger players.

Section 3: "Happy Trails, Paul"

1. Memorable Moments

"Happy Trails, Paul" signifies a specific period in Paul Mara's career when he made significant contributions on the ice. We delve into some of the most memorable moments from this time.

2. The Teams He Represented

Throughout his NHL career, Paul Mara played for several teams, including the Tampa Bay Lightning, Phoenix Coyotes, Boston Bruins, New York Rangers, Montreal Canadiens, and Anaheim Ducks. We look at his impact on each of these teams.

Section 4: FAQs About Paul Mara

1. What made Paul Mara stand out as a defenseman in the NHL?

Paul Mara's versatility, solid defensive play, and ability to contribute offensively set him apart as a defenseman. He could adapt to various roles and excel in each of them.

2. How did Paul Mara handle injuries and setbacks during his career?

Like many professional athletes, Paul Mara faced injuries and setbacks during his career. He displayed resilience and determination, working hard to return to the ice each time.

3. What is Paul Mara's legacy in the world of hockey?

Paul Mara's legacy extends beyond his on-ice contributions. He is remembered as a dedicated player who left a positive impact on the teams he played for and the fans who supported him.

Section 5: Life Beyond Hockey

1. Post-Retirement Pursuits

After retiring from professional hockey, Paul Mara remained involved in the sport in various capacities, including coaching and player development.

2. Giving Back to the Community

Paul Mara's commitment to giving back to the community reflects his character and dedication to making a positive impact beyond the rink.

"Happy Trails, Paul" allows us to celebrate the remarkable career of Paul Mara, a player who dedicated over a decade of his life to the NHL. His versatility, leadership, and work ethic endeared him to teammates and fans alike. Beyond his on-ice achievements, Mara's contributions to the hockey community and society at large exemplify the enduring legacy of a player who continues to make a difference in the world. As we bid him farewell from the NHL, we acknowledge and appreciate the impact he has had on the sport we all love.