Basil McRae's journey through the world of professional hockey is characterized by his role as a gritty and determined player. Born on January 5, 1961, in Beaverton, Ontario, McRae developed a reputation for his physical style of play and his willingness to stand up for his teammates. His career in the National Hockey League (NHL) spanned over a decade and saw him play for several teams, each time bringing his trademark toughness to the ice.
McRae's professional career began when he was drafted 87th overall by the Quebec Nordiques in the 1980 NHL Entry Draft. He made his NHL debut with the Nordiques, but it was with the St. Louis Blues that he began to establish himself as a regular in the league. Known for his enforcer role, McRae was never shy about dropping the gloves and engaging in fights to protect his teammates or shift the momentum of a game.
Throughout his career, McRae played for several teams, including the Toronto Maple Leafs, Detroit Red Wings, Minnesota North Stars, Tampa Bay Lightning, and Chicago Blackhawks. His longest tenure was with the Minnesota North Stars, where he became a fan favorite for his rugged play and leadership on and off the ice. During his time with the North Stars, McRae was part of the team that made a memorable run to the Stanley Cup Finals in 1991, although they ultimately fell to the Pittsburgh Penguins.
McRae's role on the ice was primarily that of an enforcer, a player tasked with providing physicality and protection for his teammates. This role often led to high penalty minutes, and McRae was frequently among the league leaders in this category. Despite the physical nature of his play, he was respected by teammates and opponents alike for his professionalism and understanding of the game's unwritten rules.
After his playing days ended, McRae transitioned into roles off the ice, including coaching and management positions. He served as an assistant coach for the London Knights of the Ontario Hockey League (OHL) and later became part of the team's ownership group. His involvement with the Knights demonstrated his continued commitment to the sport and his desire to help develop the next generation of hockey players.
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