Bobby Gould, a Canadian professional ice hockey player, spent a decade in the National Hockey League (NHL) during the 1980s. Born on September 2, 1957, in Petrolia, Ontario, Gould's journey to the NHL began in the Ontario Hockey Association (OHA) with the Kingston Canadians. His performance there caught the attention of NHL scouts, leading to his selection by the Atlanta Flames in the seventh round of the 1977 NHL Amateur Draft.
Gould made his NHL debut with the Flames, where he played for several seasons. Known for his gritty playing style and ability to contribute both offensively and defensively, he became a reliable presence on the ice. In 1980, the Flames relocated to Calgary, and Gould continued to play with the team in their new home. His time with the Flames showcased his ability to adapt to the evolving dynamics of the league.
In 1982, Gould was traded to the Washington Capitals, where he spent the majority of his NHL career. During his tenure with the Capitals, he became known for his work ethic and tenacity. Gould's role often involved checking and penalty killing, but he also demonstrated an ability to score, achieving a career-high of 23 goals in the 1983-84 season. His contributions helped the Capitals reach the playoffs multiple times, solidifying their status as a competitive team in the league.
Gould's playing style was characterized by his physicality and willingness to engage in the rougher aspects of the game. This approach sometimes led to on-ice altercations, but it also earned him respect from teammates and opponents alike. His ability to play both ends of the ice made him a valuable asset to the Capitals throughout the mid-1980s.
In 1989, Gould was traded to the Boston Bruins, where he continued to play a supporting role. His experience and leadership were assets to the Bruins as they made a deep playoff run, ultimately reaching the Stanley Cup Finals in 1990. Although the Bruins did not capture the championship, Gould's presence on the team was a testament to his enduring skill and determination.
After his stint with the Bruins, Gould briefly played for the Maine Mariners in the American Hockey League (AHL) before retiring from professional hockey. Over his NHL career, he played in 697 regular-season games, scoring 134 goals and adding 111 assists. His playoff appearances further highlighted his ability to perform under pressure, contributing to his teams' efforts in the postseason.
Following his retirement as a player, Gould transitioned into coaching and player development roles, sharing his knowledge and experience with younger generations of hockey players. His post-playing career included coaching positions in various leagues, where he continued to influence the sport he had dedicated much of his life to.
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