Sweeney Schriner, born on November 30, 1911, in Saratov, Russia, and raised in Calgary, Alberta, Canada, became a celebrated figure in the world of professional ice hockey. His journey in the sport began in the Western Canada Hockey League, where he played for the Calgary Bronks. Schriner's talent on the ice quickly caught the attention of the National Hockey League (NHL), leading to his debut with the New York Americans in the 1933-34 season.

Schriner's prowess as a left winger was evident from the start. In his rookie season, he scored 18 goals and 26 points, earning him the Calder Memorial Trophy as the league's top rookie. His ability to find the back of the net and his skillful playmaking made him a valuable asset to the Americans. Over the next few seasons, Schriner continued to be a top performer for the team, consistently ranking among the league's leading scorers.

In 1939, Schriner was traded to the Toronto Maple Leafs, a move that would define the next chapter of his career. With the Maple Leafs, he became an integral part of the team's offensive lineup. His tenure with Toronto was marked by significant achievements, including winning the Stanley Cup in 1942 and 1945. Schriner's performance in the 1942 playoffs was particularly noteworthy; he played a crucial role in the Maple Leafs' historic comeback from a 3-0 series deficit against the Detroit Red Wings in the Stanley Cup Finals, scoring key goals that helped secure the championship.

Throughout his career, Schriner was known for his scoring ability and his knack for being in the right place at the right time. He was a two-time recipient of the Lady Byng Memorial Trophy, awarded for sportsmanship and gentlemanly conduct combined with a high standard of playing ability, in 1943 and 1944. His style of play was characterized by a combination of finesse and strategic positioning, which allowed him to excel in both offensive and defensive situations.

Schriner's career statistics reflect his impact on the ice. Over 484 regular-season games, he amassed 201 goals and 231 assists, totaling 432 points. His playoff performances were equally impressive, with 19 goals and 21 assists in 56 games. These numbers underscore his consistency and effectiveness as a player throughout his time in the NHL.

After retiring from professional hockey in 1946, Schriner remained connected to the sport, contributing to the development of young players and sharing his knowledge and experience. His legacy was cemented with his induction into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 1962, a testament to his skill and influence in the game.

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