Brian Noonan's journey in professional hockey began when he was drafted by the Chicago Blackhawks in the 1983 NHL Entry Draft. Selected in the ninth round as the 179th overall pick, Noonan's entry into the NHL was not immediate. He spent several years honing his skills in the minor leagues, including stints with the New York Rangers' affiliate, the Flint Spirits, and the Saginaw Hawks, before making his NHL debut with the Blackhawks in the late 1980s.
Noonan's role with the Blackhawks was primarily as a right winger, where he became known for his reliable play and ability to contribute both offensively and defensively. During his time with Chicago, he played alongside some of the era's greats, including Jeremy Roenick and Steve Larmer, and was part of the team that reached the Stanley Cup Finals in 1992. Although the Blackhawks fell to the Pittsburgh Penguins, Noonan's performance during the playoffs was commendable, as he provided depth and support to the team's offensive lines.
In 1994, Noonan was traded to the New York Rangers, reuniting with former Blackhawks coach Mike Keenan. This move proved to be a turning point in his career. With the Rangers, Noonan played a crucial role in the team's historic run to the Stanley Cup championship in 1994. His contributions during the playoffs were vital, as he scored several key goals and provided the Rangers with the depth needed to secure their first Stanley Cup in 54 years. Noonan's ability to perform under pressure was evident throughout the playoffs, and he became a valued member of the Rangers' roster.
Following his success with the Rangers, Noonan's career saw him move between several teams. He returned to the Blackhawks for a brief period before being traded to the St. Louis Blues. His time with the Blues was short-lived, and he soon found himself with the Vancouver Canucks. Despite the frequent changes in teams, Noonan continued to demonstrate his skills on the ice, contributing wherever he played.
In the latter part of his career, Noonan returned to the Rangers, where he played until the end of his NHL tenure. Throughout his career, he was known for his work ethic and ability to adapt to different team dynamics. His professional journey concluded in the late 1990s, leaving behind a legacy of perseverance and teamwork.
Brian Noonan's career in the NHL spanned over a decade, during which he played more than 600 games and scored over 100 goals.
🏒