Ken Belanger, a Canadian ice hockey player, spent his professional career primarily as a left winger in the National Hockey League (NHL). Born on May 14, 1974, in Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario, Belanger was known for his physical style of play and his role as an enforcer on the ice. His journey in professional hockey began when he was drafted by the Hartford Whalers in the seventh round, 153rd overall, in the 1992 NHL Entry Draft.
Belanger's NHL career officially took off when he joined the Toronto Maple Leafs. He made his debut with the team during the 1994-1995 season. Although his time with the Maple Leafs was brief, it marked the beginning of his presence in the league. Following his stint in Toronto, Belanger was traded to the New York Islanders in 1996. It was with the Islanders that he began to establish himself as a tough and reliable player, often tasked with protecting his teammates and engaging in on-ice altercations when necessary.
In 1999, Belanger was traded to the Boston Bruins, where he continued to fulfill his role as an enforcer. His time with the Bruins was marked by his willingness to drop the gloves and stand up for his teammates, a quality that endeared him to fans and teammates alike. Despite not being a prolific scorer, his contributions to the team were valued for the physical presence and sense of security he provided on the ice.
Belanger's career also included a brief period with the Los Angeles Kings, where he played from 2001 to 2003. During his tenure with the Kings, he continued to be recognized for his physical play and ability to engage opponents in fights. His role as an enforcer was crucial in maintaining team dynamics and ensuring that skilled players had the space to perform without fear of intimidation from the opposition.
Throughout his career, Belanger was known for his toughness and willingness to stand up for his teammates. His role as an enforcer was a challenging one, often involving physical confrontations and the risk of injury. Despite these challenges, he remained committed to his role and was respected by teammates and opponents alike for his dedication to the game.
Ken Belanger retired from professional hockey in 2006. Over the course of his career, he played in 248 NHL games, recording 8 goals, 10 assists, and accumulating 695 penalty minutes. His career statistics reflect the nature of his role on the ice, where his primary contributions were not measured in points but in the physical and protective presence he provided.
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