After his stint with Chicago, Olmstead was traded to the Montreal Canadiens, where he truly began to shine. Playing alongside legends such as Maurice Richard and Jean Béliveau, Olmstead became known for his physical style of play and his ability to set up goals. His time with the Canadiens was marked by multiple Stanley Cup victories, as the team dominated the league during the 1950s. Olmstead's role as a playmaker was crucial to the Canadiens' offensive strategies, and he was often relied upon to create scoring opportunities for his teammates.
In 1958, Olmstead was claimed by the Toronto Maple Leafs in an intra-league draft. With the Maple Leafs, he continued to demonstrate his skills on the ice, contributing to the team's success. His leadership qualities were recognized, and he served as an alternate captain during his time in Toronto. Olmstead's experience and knowledge of the game were invaluable assets to the Maple Leafs, helping guide younger players and contributing to the team's overall performance.
Olmstead's career also included a brief period with the New York Rangers, although his time there was not as impactful as with his previous teams. Despite this, his overall career statistics and achievements earned him a place in the Hockey Hall of Fame in 1985. Known for his toughness and ability to read the game, Olmstead left a lasting legacy in the NHL.
Throughout his career, Olmstead was selected for the NHL All-Star Game multiple times, highlighting his status as one of the top players of his era. His ability to adapt to different teams and playing styles made him a valuable player throughout his career. Olmstead's contributions to the sport were recognized not only through his Hall of Fame induction but also by those who played alongside him and against him.
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