Billy MacMillan, a native of Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island, embarked on his professional hockey journey after being drafted by the Toronto Maple Leafs in the 1969 NHL Amateur Draft. Selected 17th overall, MacMillan began his NHL career with the Maple Leafs, where he played as a right winger. His time with Toronto marked the beginning of a career that would see him transition through several teams and roles within the hockey world.
MacMillan's playing style was characterized by his strong work ethic and ability to adapt to different team dynamics. During his tenure with the Maple Leafs, he contributed to the team's efforts with his consistent play, although he often found himself in a supporting role. After spending a few seasons with Toronto, MacMillan was claimed by the Atlanta Flames in the 1972 NHL Expansion Draft. This move to Atlanta provided him with new opportunities to further develop his skills and gain more ice time.
With the Flames, MacMillan continued to demonstrate his abilities on the ice, becoming a reliable player for the team. His time in Atlanta allowed him to showcase his talents in a different environment, and he became known for his steady presence on the ice. After several seasons with the Flames, MacMillan was traded to the New York Islanders in 1974. This transition marked another chapter in his career, as he joined a team that was building towards becoming a competitive force in the NHL.
During his stint with the Islanders, MacMillan played alongside a group of talented players who would eventually lead the team to great success in the late 1970s and early 1980s. Although he was not part of the Islanders' Stanley Cup-winning teams, his contributions during the formative years of the franchise were valued. MacMillan's experience and leadership were assets to the team as they developed into a championship contender.
After his playing career, MacMillan transitioned into coaching and management roles, continuing his involvement in the hockey world. He served as an assistant coach for the Islanders, bringing his on-ice experience to the coaching staff. Later, he took on the role of head coach for the Colorado Rockies during the 1980-81 season. His coaching career also included a stint with the New Jersey Devils, where he served as head coach from 1983 to 1984.
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