Larry Popein, a Canadian ice hockey player, spent much of his career as a center in the National Hockey League (NHL) and the Western Hockey League (WHL). Born on August 11, 1930, in Yorkton, Saskatchewan, Popein's journey in professional hockey began in the minor leagues before he made his way to the NHL.
Popein's NHL career took off when he joined the New York Rangers. He played with the Rangers from 1954 to 1961, where he was known for his defensive skills and ability to play both ends of the ice. During his time with the Rangers, Popein was often relied upon for his face-off proficiency and his role as a checking forward. His consistent performance helped the team in various matchups, although the Rangers struggled to achieve significant playoff success during those years.
After his stint with the Rangers, Popein transitioned to the WHL, where he continued to play at a high level. He joined the San Francisco Seals, a team that later became the California Seals, and played there from 1961 to 1967. His leadership on the ice was evident as he took on the role of player-coach, guiding younger players and contributing to the team's strategies. Popein's experience and understanding of the game were valuable assets to the Seals during his tenure.
In 1967, Popein moved to the Vancouver Canucks, another WHL team, where he continued to play until 1970. His time with the Canucks further solidified his reputation as a reliable center who could be counted on for both offensive and defensive plays. Popein's ability to adapt to different playing styles and his knowledge of the game allowed him to extend his career in the WHL, even as the league underwent changes and faced competition from the expanding NHL.
After retiring as a player, Popein remained involved in hockey, taking on various roles in coaching and scouting. His post-playing career included a return to the NHL, where he worked with the New York Rangers as a scout and later as an assistant coach. His insights and experience were valuable to the teams he worked with, as he helped identify and develop new talent.
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