Brad May, a Canadian professional ice hockey player, spent nearly two decades in the National Hockey League (NHL), known for his physical style of play and his role as an enforcer on the ice. Born on November 29, 1971, in Toronto, Ontario, May was drafted 14th overall by the Buffalo Sabres in the 1990 NHL Entry Draft. His career began with the Sabres in the 1991-1992 season, where he quickly established himself as a tough and gritty player.
May's tenure with the Buffalo Sabres is perhaps best remembered for his role in one of the most famous goals in franchise history. During the 1993 playoffs, he scored an overtime goal against the Boston Bruins, which was immortalized by Rick Jeanneret's enthusiastic call, "May Day!. May Day!" This goal not only secured a series victory for the Sabres but also became a defining moment in May's career.
After spending several seasons with the Sabres, May was traded to the Vancouver Canucks in 1998. His time with the Canucks further solidified his reputation as a player who could be relied upon for his physical presence and willingness to stand up for his teammates. May's role often involved protecting star players and engaging in fights, a common expectation for enforcers during that era of hockey.
In 2000, May was traded to the Phoenix Coyotes, where he continued to play his hard-nosed style of hockey. His journey through the NHL also included stints with the Colorado Avalanche, where he was part of the team that won the Stanley Cup in 2007. Although he was not a primary scorer, his contributions to the team's physical game and his veteran presence were valued by his teammates and coaches.
May later joined the Anaheim Ducks, where he added another Stanley Cup to his resume in 2007. His role with the Ducks was similar to his previous teams, providing grit and toughness on the ice. Following his time with Anaheim, May played for the Toronto Maple Leafs and the Detroit Red Wings before retiring from professional hockey in 2010.
Throughout his career, May was known for his willingness to drop the gloves and engage in fights, a role that was both celebrated and criticized in the evolving landscape of the NHL. Despite the physical toll of his playing style, May's career longevity is a testament to his ability to adapt and remain a valuable asset to his teams.
After retiring from professional play, May transitioned into broadcasting, providing analysis and commentary for various hockey programs. His insights into the game, drawn from years of experience on the ice, have made him a respected voice in the hockey community.
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