Dave Hannan's journey in professional hockey began when he was drafted by the Pittsburgh Penguins in the 10th round of the 1981 NHL Entry Draft. Born in Sudbury, Ontario, Hannan was known for his tenacity and work ethic on the ice. He played as a center and was recognized for his defensive skills and ability to perform under pressure.
Hannan made his NHL debut with the Penguins, where he spent several seasons honing his skills. His time in Pittsburgh allowed him to develop into a reliable player, contributing both offensively and defensively. After his stint with the Penguins, Hannan was traded to the Edmonton Oilers. Although his time with the Oilers was brief, he was part of the team during the 1987-1988 season, which saw Edmonton capture the Stanley Cup. This experience added a championship to his career, even though he played a limited role during the playoffs.
Following his time with the Oilers, Hannan joined the Toronto Maple Leafs. His tenure with the Maple Leafs was marked by consistent play and a strong presence in the locker room. He became known for his ability to perform in clutch situations, a trait that would define much of his career. After Toronto, Hannan moved to the Buffalo Sabres, where he spent a significant portion of his career. With the Sabres, he became a fan favorite due to his gritty style of play and his knack for scoring important goals.
One of the most memorable moments of Hannan's career came during the 1993-1994 playoffs while playing for the Sabres. In a game against the New Jersey Devils, Hannan scored a double-overtime goal that kept Buffalo's playoff hopes alive. This goal is often remembered as a highlight of his career and exemplified his ability to deliver in high-pressure situations.
Later in his career, Hannan played for the Colorado Avalanche. His experience and leadership were valuable assets to the team, and he continued to contribute both on and off the ice. Hannan's career in the NHL spanned over a decade, during which he played more than 800 games and scored over 200 points. His journey through various teams showcased his adaptability and determination to succeed at the highest level of the sport.
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