Bob Plager, a Canadian defenseman, became an integral part of the St. Louis Blues' history. Born on March 11, 1943, in Kirkland Lake, Ontario, Plager grew up in a family passionate about hockey. His journey into professional hockey began when he was signed by the New York Rangers, but it was with the St. Louis Blues that he truly found his home.
Plager's NHL career took off when he was claimed by the Blues during the 1967 NHL Expansion Draft. As one of the original members of the Blues, he quickly became known for his tough, physical style of play. His defensive skills and willingness to protect his teammates made him a fan favorite and a respected figure on the ice. Plager's presence was felt during the Blues' early years, as he helped lead the team to three consecutive Stanley Cup Finals from 1968 to 1970.
Throughout his playing career, Plager was known for his rugged defensive play and his ability to read the game. He was not a high-scoring defenseman, but his contributions to the team's defensive efforts were invaluable. Over the course of his career, he played in 644 regular-season games, scoring 20 goals and adding 126 assists for a total of 146 points. His penalty minutes, totaling 802, reflected his aggressive style and willingness to stand up for his teammates.
After retiring as a player in 1978, Plager transitioned into coaching and management roles within the Blues organization. He served as an assistant coach and later took on the role of head coach during the 1992-1993 season. Although his tenure as head coach was brief, his influence within the organization remained strong.
Beyond coaching, Plager also contributed to the Blues as a scout and in various front-office positions. His dedication to the team and the city of St. Louis was evident throughout his career, and he became a beloved figure in the community. Plager's legacy with the Blues was further cemented when his number 5 jersey was retired by the team in 2017, honoring his contributions both on and off the ice.
Bob Plager's career in hockey spanned several decades, during which he became synonymous with the St. Louis Blues.
🏒