Robinson's NHL debut came in the 1972-73 season, and he quickly established himself as a reliable and skilled defenseman. Standing at 6 feet 4 inches and weighing over 220 pounds, his physical presence was complemented by his exceptional skating ability and hockey intelligence. These attributes made him a cornerstone of the Canadiens' defense during their dominant run in the 1970s.
Throughout the 1970s, Robinson was a key player in the Canadiens' dynasty, which saw the team win six Stanley Cup championships in 1973, 1976, 1977, 1978, 1979, and 1986. His performance in the 1978 playoffs earned him the Conn Smythe Trophy as the most valuable player, highlighting his importance to the team's success. Robinson's ability to contribute offensively was also notable, as he consistently ranked among the top-scoring defensemen in the league.
In addition to his Stanley Cup victories, Robinson's individual accolades include winning the James Norris Memorial Trophy twice, awarded to the NHL's best defenseman, in 1977 and 1980. He was selected to the NHL All-Star team multiple times and participated in several All-Star Games, further cementing his reputation as one of the league's elite defensemen.
Robinson's career with the Canadiens came to an end after the 1988-89 season when he signed with the Los Angeles Kings as a free agent. He played three seasons with the Kings, providing veteran leadership and experience to a team that was building towards becoming a contender. Robinson retired from playing in 1992, leaving behind a legacy of excellence on the ice.
Following his retirement as a player, Robinson transitioned into coaching and management roles. He served as an assistant coach for the New Jersey Devils, where he was part of the coaching staff that led the team to Stanley Cup victories in 1995, 2000, and 2003. Robinson also had stints as the head coach of the Devils, further showcasing his understanding of the game and ability to lead.
Robinson's contributions to hockey have been recognized with numerous honors. In 1995, he was inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame, a testament to his outstanding career and influence on the sport. His number 19 jersey was retired by the Montreal Canadiens in 2007, ensuring that his legacy with the team will be remembered by future generations.
Throughout his career, Robinson was known for his sportsmanship and leadership both on and off the ice. His ability to mentor younger players and his calm demeanor under pressure made him a respected figure in the hockey community. Robinson's influence extended beyond his playing days, as he continued to contribute to the sport through coaching and player development.
In summary, Larry Robinson's career in hockey is marked by his achievements as a player and coach.
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