Paul Reinhart, a Canadian ice hockey player, spent his professional career primarily as a defenseman in the National Hockey League (NHL). Born on January 8, 1960, in Kitchener, Ontario, Reinhart's journey in hockey began in his youth, eventually leading him to be drafted by the Atlanta Flames in the 1979 NHL Entry Draft as the 12th overall pick.
Reinhart's NHL career commenced with the Flames, where he quickly established himself as a reliable player. When the franchise relocated to Calgary in 1980, becoming the Calgary Flames, Reinhart continued to be an integral part of the team. Known for his offensive skills from the blue line, he was adept at both defending and contributing to the team's scoring efforts. His ability to read the game and make smart plays made him a valuable asset on the ice.
Throughout his time with the Flames, Reinhart was recognized for his consistent performance. He was particularly effective on the power play, where his vision and passing ability allowed him to set up scoring opportunities for his teammates. His contributions were instrumental in helping the Flames reach the playoffs multiple times during his tenure with the team.
In 1988, Reinhart was traded to the Vancouver Canucks, where he continued to demonstrate his skills as a defenseman. Despite facing challenges with injuries, he remained a productive player for the Canucks. His experience and leadership were beneficial to the team, and he played a crucial role in mentoring younger players.
Reinhart's career, however, was marred by back problems, which ultimately led to his early retirement from professional hockey in 1990. Despite the premature end to his playing days, his career statistics reflect his abilities and contributions to the teams he played for. Over the course of his NHL career, Reinhart played in 648 games, scoring 133 goals and providing 367 assists, totaling 500 points.
Beyond his playing career, Reinhart's legacy in hockey continued through his family. His sons, Max and Griffin Reinhart, followed in his footsteps, pursuing careers in professional hockey. This continuation of the Reinhart name in the sport is a testament to the influence and inspiration Paul provided.
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