Bruce Driver, a Canadian-born defenseman, played an integral role in the National Hockey League (NHL) during his career. Born on April 29, 1962, in Toronto, Ontario, Driver developed his skills in the competitive Canadian hockey system before making his way to the NHL. He attended the University of Wisconsin-Madison, where he played college hockey for the Wisconsin Badgers. His time at the university was marked by impressive performances, which helped him gain attention from NHL scouts.
Driver was drafted by the Colorado Rockies in the sixth round of the 1981 NHL Entry Draft. However, he never played for the Rockies, as the franchise relocated and became the New Jersey Devils. It was with the Devils that Driver began his NHL career, debuting in the 1983-1984 season. Over the years, he became known for his steady presence on the blue line and his ability to contribute offensively when needed.
Throughout his tenure with the Devils, Driver was a reliable defenseman, known for his strong skating and intelligent play. He was particularly effective on the power play, where his ability to read the game and make precise passes helped his team capitalize on scoring opportunities. Driver's offensive skills were highlighted during the 1987-1988 season when he recorded a career-high 56 points, including 14 goals and 42 assists.
Driver's leadership qualities were recognized by his teammates and coaches, and he served as an alternate captain for the Devils. His experience and calm demeanor were invaluable during high-pressure situations, particularly in the playoffs. Driver's efforts were instrumental in the Devils' journey to the Stanley Cup Finals in 1995, where they faced the Detroit Red Wings. The Devils emerged victorious, capturing their first Stanley Cup in franchise history. This achievement was a testament to the team's strong defensive play, with Driver playing a crucial role in their success.
After spending over a decade with the New Jersey Devils, Driver signed with the New York Rangers as a free agent in 1995. His experience and defensive acumen were assets to the Rangers, where he continued to play a steady role on the blue line. Driver spent three seasons with the Rangers before retiring from professional hockey in 1998.
Throughout his NHL career, Driver played in 922 regular-season games, amassing 96 goals and 390 assists for a total of 486 points. In addition to his regular-season contributions, he appeared in 141 playoff games, further demonstrating his ability to perform under pressure.
Following his retirement from professional hockey, Driver remained involved in the sport. He took on coaching roles at various levels, sharing his knowledge and experience with young players. His post-playing career also included work as a broadcaster, where he provided analysis and commentary on hockey games.
Bruce Driver's career in the NHL was marked by consistency, leadership, and a strong understanding of the game.
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