Rick Kehoe's journey in professional hockey began when he was drafted by the Toronto Maple Leafs in the second round of the 1971 NHL Amateur Draft. Born on July 15, 1951, in Windsor, Ontario, Kehoe quickly established himself as a skilled right winger. His early years with the Maple Leafs saw him developing his game and gaining valuable experience in the National Hockey League (NHL).
Kehoe's career took a significant turn in 1974 when he was traded to the Pittsburgh Penguins. It was with the Penguins that he truly flourished as a player. Known for his scoring ability and sharp shooting, Kehoe became a vital part of the Penguins' offensive lineup. During the 1980-81 season, he achieved a personal milestone by scoring 55 goals, which not only led the team but also placed him among the league's top scorers. This remarkable performance earned him a spot in the NHL All-Star Game and the Lady Byng Memorial Trophy, awarded for sportsmanship and gentlemanly conduct combined with a high standard of playing ability.
Throughout his time with the Penguins, Kehoe was a consistent performer, leading the team in scoring multiple times. His ability to find the back of the net and his on-ice intelligence made him a fan favorite in Pittsburgh. Over the course of his playing career, Kehoe amassed 371 goals and 396 assists, totaling 767 points in 906 regular-season games. His contributions helped the Penguins reach the playoffs on several occasions, although a deep postseason run eluded the team during his tenure.
After retiring as a player in 1985, Kehoe transitioned to coaching, bringing his extensive knowledge of the game to the bench. He initially served as an assistant coach for the Penguins, a role he held for several years. In 2001, Kehoe was promoted to head coach of the Penguins, succeeding Ivan Hlinka. Under his leadership, the team faced challenges, including financial difficulties and roster changes, but Kehoe remained dedicated to developing young talent and maintaining a competitive squad.
Kehoe's coaching career with the Penguins lasted until 2003, after which he continued to be involved in hockey in various capacities.
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