Dave Ellett, a defenseman known for his offensive capabilities and steady presence on the ice, began his professional hockey career after being drafted by the Winnipeg Jets in the 1982 NHL Entry Draft. Selected in the fourth round as the 75th overall pick, Ellett joined the Jets and quickly established himself as a reliable player on the blue line.
Ellett's NHL debut came during the 1984-85 season with the Winnipeg Jets. Over the next several years, he became an integral part of the team's defensive unit. His ability to contribute offensively was evident, as he consistently put up impressive numbers for a defenseman. Ellett's best season with the Jets came in 1986-87 when he scored 22 goals and added 33 assists, totaling 55 points. This performance highlighted his knack for joining the rush and his proficiency on the power play.
In 1990, Ellett was traded to the Toronto Maple Leafs, where he continued to be a valuable asset. His tenure with the Maple Leafs was marked by solid defensive play and continued offensive production. Ellett played a crucial role in the Maple Leafs' deep playoff runs in the early 1990s, particularly during the 1992-93 and 1993-94 seasons when the team reached the Conference Finals. His experience and leadership were vital to the team's success during these playoff campaigns.
Ellett's time with the Maple Leafs lasted until 1996 when he was traded to the New Jersey Devils. Although his stint with the Devils was brief, he provided veteran leadership and depth to the team's defensive corps. Following his time in New Jersey, Ellett joined the Boston Bruins for the 1997-98 season. With the Bruins, he continued to be a steady presence on the blue line, contributing both defensively and offensively.
In the latter stages of his career, Ellett signed with the St. Louis Blues, where he played for two seasons before retiring from professional hockey. Throughout his career, Ellett was known for his strong skating ability, accurate shot, and hockey intelligence. He played in over 1,000 NHL games, scoring more than 400 points, a testament to his consistency and skill as a defenseman.
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