Jim Cummins, a right winger known for his physical style of play, spent over a decade in the National Hockey League (NHL). Born on May 17, 1970, in Dearborn, Michigan, Cummins developed his skills in the United States Hockey League (USHL) before moving on to college hockey with the University of Illinois at Chicago. His robust playing style caught the attention of NHL scouts, leading to his selection by the New York Rangers in the 1990 NHL Entry Draft.
Cummins began his NHL career with the Detroit Red Wings, making his debut during the 1991-1992 season. Although his time with the Red Wings was brief, it marked the beginning of a career characterized by his role as an enforcer. He was traded to the Philadelphia Flyers, where he continued to establish himself as a tough, physical presence on the ice. His ability to protect his teammates and engage in on-ice altercations made him a valuable asset to the teams he played for.
Throughout his career, Cummins played for several NHL teams, including the Chicago Blackhawks, Phoenix Coyotes, Montreal Canadiens, Tampa Bay Lightning, Anaheim Ducks, and Colorado Avalanche. His longest tenure was with the Chicago Blackhawks, where he played from 1993 to 1996. During his time in Chicago, Cummins became a fan favorite for his willingness to stand up for his teammates and his fearless approach to the game.
Cummins' role in the NHL was primarily that of an enforcer, a player tasked with the responsibility of protecting skilled teammates and maintaining a physical presence on the ice. This role often involved fighting, and Cummins was known for his willingness to drop the gloves when necessary. Despite the physical nature of his role, he also contributed offensively when needed, providing depth to the teams' forward lines.
In addition to his NHL career, Cummins also spent time in the American Hockey League (AHL) and the International Hockey League (IHL), where he continued to play a similar role. His professional career spanned over a decade, during which he played in more than 400 NHL games, accumulating over 60 points and more than 1,500 penalty minutes.
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