Peter McNab's journey in professional hockey began after a successful collegiate career at the University of Denver, where he honed his skills and developed into a promising player. Drafted by the Buffalo Sabres in the sixth round of the 1972 NHL Amateur Draft, McNab entered the National Hockey League with a solid foundation and a readiness to compete at the highest level.
McNab's NHL career took off with the Buffalo Sabres, where he played for two seasons. During his time with the Sabres, he demonstrated his ability to contribute offensively, which caught the attention of other teams in the league. In 1976, McNab was traded to the Boston Bruins, a move that would define much of his professional career.
With the Bruins, McNab found his stride as a center, becoming a consistent scorer and a reliable presence on the ice. He played alongside talented teammates, including the likes of Terry O'Reilly and Rick Middleton, which allowed him to thrive in Boston's competitive environment. McNab's tenure with the Bruins was marked by several productive seasons, where he consistently ranked among the team's top scorers. His ability to find the back of the net and set up plays made him a valuable asset to the Bruins' offensive lineup.
McNab's performance in Boston was characterized by his strong play in the regular season and his contributions in the playoffs. He helped the Bruins reach the postseason multiple times, including a memorable run to the Stanley Cup Finals in 1977 and 1978. Although the Bruins fell short of winning the championship, McNab's efforts were instrumental in their deep playoff runs.
In 1984, McNab was traded to the Vancouver Canucks, where he continued to play at a high level. His time with the Canucks was brief, but he managed to make an impact during his stint with the team. Following his tenure in Vancouver, McNab joined the New Jersey Devils, where he played the final seasons of his NHL career. With the Devils, McNab provided veteran leadership and experience to a young team, helping to guide them through the challenges of the league.
Throughout his NHL career, McNab was known for his scoring ability, hockey sense, and professionalism. He finished his career with over 800 games played, amassing more than 350 goals and 450 assists. His consistent performance and ability to adapt to different teams and playing styles underscored his value as a player.
After retiring from professional hockey, McNab transitioned into a successful broadcasting career, where he continued to share his knowledge and love for the game. His insights and analysis became a staple for hockey fans, further cementing his legacy in the sport.
🏒