Todd Ewen, known for his role as an enforcer in the National Hockey League (NHL), played a vital part in the teams he joined throughout his career. Born on March 22, 1966, in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Ewen grew up in a region where hockey was more than just a sport; it was a way of life. His journey to the NHL began in the Western Hockey League (WHL), where he played for the New Westminster Bruins and the Kamloops Junior Oilers, honing the skills that would later define his professional career.
Ewen's NHL career commenced when he was drafted by the Edmonton Oilers in the 8th round of the 1984 NHL Entry Draft. However, he never played for the Oilers, as he was traded to the St. Louis Blues, where he made his NHL debut. Ewen quickly established himself as a tough, physical player, known for his willingness to drop the gloves and protect his teammates. His role as an enforcer was crucial during a time when physicality was a significant aspect of the game.
After his stint with the Blues, Ewen was traded to the Montreal Canadiens in 1989. It was with the Canadiens that he achieved one of the highlights of his career, winning the Stanley Cup in 1993. Ewen's presence on the ice provided a sense of security for his teammates, allowing the more skilled players to focus on scoring and playmaking. His contributions during the playoffs were valued by the team, even if they didn't always show up on the score sheet.
Following his time in Montreal, Ewen joined the Mighty Ducks of Anaheim in 1993, becoming part of the franchise's inaugural roster. As a veteran player, he brought experience and leadership to the young team, helping to establish a foundation for the new organization. Ewen's role with the Ducks was similar to his previous teams, focusing on physical play and protecting his teammates.
Ewen later moved to the San Jose Sharks, where he continued to play his enforcer role. Throughout his career, he was known for his toughness and willingness to stand up for his teammates, traits that were highly valued in the NHL during his playing days. Ewen's career statistics include over 500 games played, with numerous penalty minutes reflecting his role as a protector on the ice.
Off the ice, Ewen was known for his engaging personality and sense of humor. He was well-liked by teammates and fans alike, often participating in community events and charity work. Despite the rough and tumble nature of his on-ice role, Ewen was a gentle giant away from the rink, known for his kindness and generosity.
After retiring from professional hockey, Ewen remained involved in the sport, coaching youth hockey and sharing his experiences with the next generation of players. His post-hockey life also included various business ventures, showcasing his ability to transition from the world of professional sports to other endeavors.
Tragically, Todd Ewen passed away on September 19, 2015.
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