Ron Stern, a Canadian professional ice hockey player, spent his career primarily in the National Hockey League (NHL) as a right winger. Born on January 11, 1967, in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Stern was known for his physical style of play and his role as an enforcer on the ice. His journey in professional hockey began when he was drafted by the Vancouver Canucks in the 1986 NHL Entry Draft, selected in the fifth round as the 70th overall pick.
Stern's NHL debut came with the Canucks, where he played for parts of two seasons. However, it was with the Calgary Flames that he spent the majority of his career. In 1989, Stern was traded to the Flames, a move that would define much of his time in the league. During his tenure with Calgary, Stern became known for his aggressive play and willingness to stand up for his teammates, often engaging in fights and playing a tough, gritty game.
Throughout his time with the Flames, Stern's role was primarily that of an enforcer, a player tasked with protecting his teammates and maintaining a physical presence on the ice. This role often saw him accumulating penalty minutes, and he became a familiar face in the penalty box. Despite this, Stern also contributed offensively when needed, providing depth to the Flames' lineup.
In 1994, Stern was traded to the San Jose Sharks, where he continued to play a similar role. With the Sharks, he brought his physical style to a team that was still relatively new to the NHL, having joined the league in 1991. Stern's experience and toughness were assets to the Sharks as they sought to establish themselves in the league.
Stern's career in the NHL spanned over a decade, during which he played in more than 500 regular-season games. His playing style was emblematic of the era, characterized by a focus on physicality and enforcing the unwritten codes of the game. While not known for his scoring ability, Stern's presence on the ice was felt in other ways, particularly through his willingness to engage in the rougher aspects of the sport.
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