Wayne Cashman, a Canadian left winger, spent his entire National Hockey League (NHL) career with the Boston Bruins. Born on June 24, 1945, in Kingston, Ontario, Cashman became known for his physical style of play and leadership on the ice. His journey in professional hockey began when he was drafted by the Bruins in 1964. However, it wasn't until the 1967-68 season that he became a regular in the Bruins' lineup.
Cashman quickly established himself as a tough, gritty player who excelled in the corners and along the boards. His ability to protect the puck and create opportunities for his teammates made him an invaluable asset to the Bruins. Playing alongside legends like Phil Esposito and Bobby Orr, Cashman was part of a powerhouse team that dominated the NHL in the late 1960s and early 1970s.
The 1969-70 season marked a turning point for Cashman and the Bruins. That year, the team captured the Stanley Cup, ending a 29-year championship drought for Boston. Cashman's role as a physical forward who could also contribute offensively was crucial to the team's success. He scored 20 goals and added 28 assists during the regular season, and his presence was felt throughout the playoffs.
Two years later, in the 1971-72 season, Cashman and the Bruins once again hoisted the Stanley Cup. This time, Cashman had an even more prominent role, scoring 23 goals and 51 assists during the regular season. His performance in the playoffs was equally impressive, as he continued to be a force on the ice, helping the Bruins secure their second championship in three years.
Throughout the 1970s, Cashman remained a consistent performer for the Bruins. Known for his toughness, he was never afraid to drop the gloves and stand up for his teammates. His leadership qualities were recognized when he was named team captain in 1977, a position he held until his retirement in 1983. Under his captaincy, the Bruins remained a competitive team, consistently making the playoffs and challenging for the Stanley Cup.
Cashman's playing style was characterized by his physicality and tenacity. He was a prototypical power forward, using his size and strength to win battles along the boards and in front of the net. Despite his rugged style, he also possessed a deft scoring touch, finishing his career with 277 goals and 516 assists in 1,027 regular-season games.
After retiring as a player, Cashman transitioned into coaching. He served as an assistant coach for several NHL teams, including the New York Rangers, Tampa Bay Lightning, and Boston Bruins. His experience and knowledge of the game made him a valuable asset behind the bench, where he continued to influence the game he loved.
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