Arbour's playing career included stints with the Detroit Red Wings, Chicago Black Hawks, Toronto Maple Leafs, and St. Louis Blues. He was part of the Maple Leafs team that won the Stanley Cup in 1962 and 1964, showcasing his ability to contribute to team success. His time with the St. Louis Blues was particularly noteworthy, as he served as the team's captain and helped lead them to three consecutive Stanley Cup Finals appearances from 1968 to 1970.
Transitioning from player to coach, Arbour found his true calling behind the bench. In 1973, he took on the role of head coach for the New York Islanders, a team that had only been in existence for a year. Under his guidance, the Islanders transformed from a struggling expansion team into a powerhouse in the NHL. Arbour's coaching philosophy emphasized discipline, teamwork, and a strong defensive system, which became the foundation for the team's success.
The pinnacle of Arbour's coaching career came in the early 1980s when he led the Islanders to four consecutive Stanley Cup championships from 1980 to 1983. This remarkable achievement solidified the Islanders' place in hockey history and established Arbour as one of the greatest coaches in the sport. His ability to manage and motivate players was instrumental in creating a winning culture within the team.
Arbour's tenure with the Islanders spanned over two decades, during which he became the longest-serving coach in the franchise's history. He retired from coaching in 1994 but briefly returned in 2007 to coach his 1,500th game with the Islanders, a testament to his enduring legacy with the team. His overall coaching record with the Islanders includes 740 wins, making him one of the most successful coaches in NHL history.
Beyond his achievements on the ice, Arbour was respected for his leadership and integrity. He was inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 1996, recognizing his contributions to the sport as both a player and a coach. Arbour's influence extended beyond his own teams, as he inspired a generation of players and coaches with his approach to the game.
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