Mike Krushelnyski's journey in professional hockey began when he was drafted by the Boston Bruins in the sixth round of the 1979 NHL Entry Draft. Standing at 6 feet 2 inches and weighing over 200 pounds, Krushelnyski was known for his physical presence on the ice. He played as a left winger and occasionally as a center, bringing versatility to his teams.
Krushelnyski made his NHL debut with the Bruins during the 1981-82 season. Over the next few years, he developed into a reliable player, contributing both offensively and defensively. His time with the Bruins laid the foundation for his future in the league, but it was his trade to the Edmonton Oilers in 1984 that marked a turning point in his career.
Joining the Oilers placed Krushelnyski alongside some of the greatest players in hockey history, including Wayne Gretzky, Mark Messier, and Jari Kurri. During his tenure with the Oilers, Krushelnyski was part of a team that dominated the NHL. He played a crucial role in the Oilers' success, helping them secure three Stanley Cup championships in 1985, 1987, and 1988. His ability to adapt to different line combinations and his strong two-way play made him a valuable asset to the team.
In 1988, Krushelnyski was traded to the Los Angeles Kings in a blockbuster deal that included Wayne Gretzky. With the Kings, he continued to be a steady performer, providing leadership and experience to a team that was building its identity around Gretzky. Krushelnyski's time in Los Angeles saw him contribute to the team's playoff runs, though they fell short of capturing a championship.
After his stint with the Kings, Krushelnyski went on to play for the Toronto Maple Leafs and the Detroit Red Wings. With the Maple Leafs, he was part of a team that reached the conference finals in 1993, a memorable playoff run for the franchise. His experience and veteran presence were valuable to the younger players on the team.
Krushelnyski concluded his NHL career with the Red Wings, retiring after the 1994-95 season. Over his career, he played in over 800 NHL games, scoring more than 240 goals and adding over 350 assists. His career was marked by his ability to perform in various roles, whether it was scoring, playmaking, or providing a physical presence on the ice.
After retiring as a player, Krushelnyski transitioned into coaching and management roles within the hockey world. He served as an assistant coach for several teams, including the Detroit Vipers in the International Hockey League and the Edmonton Oilers, sharing his knowledge and experience with the next generation of players.
Throughout his career, Mike Krushelnyski was known for his work ethic and team-first mentality.
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