Stephane Matteau, a Canadian professional ice hockey player, is best remembered for his time in the National Hockey League (NHL) during the 1990s and early 2000s. Born on September 2, 1969, in Rouyn-Noranda, Quebec, Matteau began his journey in the world of hockey at a young age, eventually making his way to the NHL where he played as a left winger.
Matteau's NHL career commenced when he was drafted 25th overall by the Calgary Flames in the 1987 NHL Entry Draft. He made his debut with the Flames during the 1990-1991 season. Although his time with Calgary was relatively short, it provided him with the experience needed to establish himself in the league. After two seasons with the Flames, Matteau was traded to the Chicago Blackhawks in 1992. His tenure with the Blackhawks was marked by steady performance, contributing to the team's depth with his physical style of play and ability to score.
In 1994, Matteau was traded to the New York Rangers, a move that would lead to the most memorable moment of his career. During the 1994 Stanley Cup Playoffs, Matteau became a hero for the Rangers. In the Eastern Conference Finals against the New Jersey Devils, he scored two double-overtime goals, including the series-clinching goal in Game 7. This goal, famously called "Matteau!. Matteau!. Matteau!" by broadcaster Howie Rose, sent the Rangers to the Stanley Cup Finals, where they eventually won their first championship in 54 years. Matteau's performance during the playoffs cemented his place in Rangers' lore.
Following his success with the Rangers, Matteau continued to play in the NHL, joining the St. Louis Blues in 1995. He spent three seasons with the Blues, where he maintained his reputation as a reliable forward. In 1998, he was traded to the San Jose Sharks, where he played for two seasons. Matteau's career continued with the Florida Panthers, whom he joined in 2000. He played two seasons with the Panthers before returning to the Sharks for his final NHL season in 2002-2003.
Throughout his career, Matteau was known for his physical presence on the ice and his ability to perform in high-pressure situations. Over the course of his NHL career, he played in 848 regular-season games, scoring 144 goals and 172 assists for a total of 316 points. In the playoffs, he appeared in 109 games, recording 24 points.
After retiring from professional hockey, Matteau transitioned into coaching and player development roles. He served as an assistant coach for the Blainville-Boisbriand Armada in the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League (QMJHL) and later worked with the Columbus Blue Jackets as a scout.
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