Colin Patterson, a Canadian ice hockey player, spent nearly a decade in the National Hockey League (NHL), primarily known for his time with the Calgary Flames. Born on May 11, 1960, in Rexdale, Ontario, Patterson's journey to professional hockey began in the collegiate ranks. He played for Clarkson University in Potsdam, New York, where he honed his skills and caught the attention of NHL scouts.
Patterson's NHL career commenced when he signed as an undrafted free agent with the Calgary Flames in 1983. His entry into the league was marked by a strong work ethic and a defensive style of play that made him a valuable asset to his team. As a left winger, Patterson was known for his ability to play both ends of the ice effectively, contributing to both offensive plays and defensive responsibilities.
During his tenure with the Flames, Patterson became an integral part of the team's lineup. He was particularly recognized for his role in the Flames' penalty-killing unit, where his defensive acumen and ability to read the game were on full display. His contributions were instrumental in helping the Flames achieve success during the late 1980s.
The pinnacle of Patterson's career came in the 1988-1989 NHL season when the Calgary Flames captured the Stanley Cup. Patterson played a crucial role throughout the playoffs, providing depth and stability to the team's forward lines. The Flames' victory in the Stanley Cup Finals against the Montreal Canadiens marked the first championship in the franchise's history, and Patterson's efforts were a part of this historic achievement.
Following his time with the Flames, Patterson was traded to the Buffalo Sabres in 1991. His stint with the Sabres added further experience to his career, although it was shorter and less highlighted than his time in Calgary. Patterson continued to exhibit the same defensive prowess and team-first mentality that had characterized his play throughout his career.
In 1993, Patterson's professional playing career came to a close. Over the course of his NHL journey, he played in 504 regular-season games, scoring 96 goals and adding 113 assists for a total of 209 points. His playoff record includes 53 games, with 12 goals and 11 assists.
Beyond his on-ice achievements, Patterson was respected by teammates and coaches alike for his leadership qualities and sportsmanship. His career serves as a testament to the importance of hard work and adaptability in professional sports.
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