Aaron Broten, hailing from Roseau, Minnesota, embarked on his professional hockey journey after being drafted by the Colorado Rockies in the sixth round of the 1980 NHL Entry Draft. Known for his skillful playmaking abilities, Broten quickly established himself as a reliable center in the National Hockey League. His career began with the Rockies, where he played a part in the team's transition to becoming the New Jersey Devils in 1982.
During his tenure with the Devils, Broten became an integral part of the team's offensive lineup. He consistently demonstrated his ability to set up plays and assist his teammates, which was reflected in his statistics. In the 1983-84 season, Broten achieved a personal milestone by scoring 55 points, including 16 goals and 39 assists. This performance highlighted his knack for creating scoring opportunities and his vision on the ice.
Broten's best season came in 1987-88 when he recorded 79 points, with 26 goals and 53 assists. This achievement placed him among the top scorers for the Devils that season and underscored his role as a central figure in the team's offensive strategy. His contributions helped the Devils reach the playoffs for the first time in franchise history, marking a significant moment for both Broten and the team.
Throughout his career, Broten was known for his consistency and reliability. He played over 500 games with the Devils, becoming one of the franchise's all-time leaders in assists and points during his time there. His ability to maintain a steady level of performance made him a valuable asset to the teams he played for.
In addition to his time with the Devils, Broten also had stints with the Minnesota North Stars, Quebec Nordiques, and Toronto Maple Leafs. Although his time with these teams was shorter, he continued to contribute as a seasoned veteran, bringing experience and leadership to the locker room.
Broten's international experience included representing the United States in various tournaments. He played for Team USA in the 1981 Canada Cup and the 1989 World Ice Hockey Championships, showcasing his skills on an international stage and contributing to the growth of hockey in the United States.
After retiring from professional hockey, Broten's legacy continued through his family's involvement in the sport. His brothers, Neal and Paul Broten, also played in the NHL, making the Broten family a well-known name in American hockey circles.
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