Terry O'Reilly, known for his rugged style of play, became a beloved figure in the world of professional hockey. Born in Niagara Falls, Ontario, O'Reilly's journey to the NHL began when he was drafted by the Boston Bruins in the first round, 14th overall, in the 1971 NHL Amateur Draft. His debut with the Bruins came in the 1971-72 season, and he quickly established himself as a player who could be relied upon for both his physical presence and his ability to contribute offensively.
O'Reilly's playing style was characterized by his toughness and willingness to stand up for his teammates, earning him the nickname "Taz," after the Tasmanian Devil cartoon character. This reputation was solidified during his 14-season career with the Bruins, where he became known as one of the most tenacious enforcers in the league. Despite his aggressive approach, O'Reilly was also a skilled player, amassing a respectable number of points throughout his career. He reached the 20-goal mark five times and had a career-high 90 points in the 1977-78 season.
Throughout his career, O'Reilly was a central figure in the Bruins' lineup, often playing alongside other legendary players such as Phil Esposito and Bobby Orr. His leadership qualities were recognized when he was named the team's captain in 1983, a role he held until his retirement. O'Reilly's ability to inspire his teammates and his dedication to the team were evident both on and off the ice.
One of the most memorable moments in O'Reilly's career came during the 1979 playoffs, in a game against the New York Rangers. Following a controversial goal that led to a Bruins' loss, O'Reilly famously climbed into the stands at Madison Square Garden to confront a fan who had been taunting the players. This incident, while controversial, further cemented his reputation as a player who would go to great lengths to defend his team.
After retiring as a player in 1985, O'Reilly transitioned to coaching. He took on the role of head coach for the Bruins in 1986, leading the team for two seasons. Under his guidance, the Bruins made it to the playoffs both years, demonstrating his ability to motivate and manage the team from behind the bench.
O'Reilly's legacy with the Bruins is enduring.
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