Dean Kennedy, a Canadian defenseman, embarked on his professional hockey journey after being drafted by the Los Angeles Kings in the second round of the 1981 NHL Entry Draft. Born on January 18, 1963, in Redvers, Saskatchewan, Kennedy brought a robust physical presence to the ice, which became a hallmark of his playing style throughout his career.
Kennedy's NHL debut came during the 1983-84 season with the Kings. Over the next few years, he established himself as a reliable defenseman, known for his toughness and defensive capabilities. His tenure with the Kings lasted until 1988, during which he played a crucial role in the team's defensive lineup. Despite not being a high-scoring player, his contributions were valued for their consistency and grit.
In 1988, Kennedy was traded to the New York Rangers, where he continued to demonstrate his defensive prowess. His time with the Rangers was relatively short, as he was traded again in 1989 to the Buffalo Sabres. With the Sabres, Kennedy found a stable role and spent several seasons anchoring their defense. His physical style of play and ability to protect his goaltender made him a respected figure among his teammates and opponents alike.
The Winnipeg Jets acquired Kennedy in 1992, adding his experience and defensive skills to their roster. During his stint with the Jets, he continued to be a steady presence on the blue line, contributing to the team's efforts in both regular season and playoff games. His leadership qualities were recognized, and he often served as a mentor to younger players on the team.
Kennedy's final NHL stop was with the Edmonton Oilers, where he played during the 1994-95 season. Although his time with the Oilers was brief, he brought veteran experience to the team and provided depth to their defensive unit. After the 1994-95 season, Kennedy retired from professional hockey, concluding a career that spanned over a decade in the NHL.
Throughout his career, Dean Kennedy played in over 700 NHL games, recording a modest number of points but leaving a lasting impression as a dependable and tough defenseman.
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