Doug Halward's journey in professional hockey began when he was drafted by the Boston Bruins in the first round, 14th overall, in the 1975 NHL Amateur Draft. A defenseman known for his offensive capabilities, Halward quickly found his place in the league. His NHL debut came during the 1975-76 season with the Bruins, where he played a handful of games, showcasing his potential as a young defenseman.
After spending a couple of seasons with Boston, Halward was traded to the Los Angeles Kings in 1978. It was with the Kings that he began to see more ice time and further developed his skills. His tenure in Los Angeles allowed him to refine his game, and he became known for his ability to contribute both defensively and offensively. Halward's time with the Kings was marked by steady improvement and increased responsibility on the blue line.
In 1982, Halward was traded to the Vancouver Canucks, a move that would define a significant portion of his career. With the Canucks, he became a regular fixture on the team's defense, playing a crucial role in their lineup. His offensive skills were particularly valuable, as he often contributed to the team's scoring from the back end. Halward's time in Vancouver was highlighted by his participation in the team's deep playoff run in 1982, where the Canucks reached the Stanley Cup Finals. Although they ultimately fell to the New York Islanders, Halward's performance during the playoffs was commendable.
Halward continued to play for the Canucks until 1986, after which he joined the Detroit Red Wings. His stint with the Red Wings was relatively short, and he later moved on to play for the Edmonton Oilers. Although his time with the Oilers was brief, it added to his experience in the league.
Throughout his career, Halward was known for his offensive contributions from the defense position. He was a player who could be relied upon to support the attack while maintaining his defensive responsibilities. His ability to play in various situations made him a valuable asset to the teams he played for.
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