Cournoyer's professional career took off when he joined the Montreal Canadiens, a team with which he would spend his entire NHL tenure. He was selected by the Canadiens in the first round of the 1963 NHL Amateur Draft. His debut with the team came in the 1964-65 season, and he quickly became known for his offensive prowess and ability to score goals at critical moments. His speed and agility made him a constant threat to opposing defenses, and he soon became a fan favorite in Montreal.
Throughout his career, Cournoyer was an integral part of the Canadiens' dynasty during the 1960s and 1970s. He played a crucial role in helping the team secure ten Stanley Cup championships, a testament to his skill and the strength of the Canadiens during that era. His ability to perform under pressure was evident in the playoffs, where he consistently delivered outstanding performances.
One of Cournoyer's most memorable seasons came in 1972-73 when he scored 47 goals and added 36 assists, totaling 83 points. His exceptional play that season earned him the Conn Smythe Trophy as the most valuable player in the playoffs, as he led the Canadiens to another Stanley Cup victory. Cournoyer's leadership qualities were recognized when he was named team captain in 1975, a position he held until his retirement.
In addition to his NHL success, Cournoyer also represented Canada on the international stage. He was a member of the historic 1972 Summit Series team, which faced off against the Soviet Union in a series of eight games. Cournoyer's contributions to Team Canada were instrumental in their eventual victory, and the series remains one of the most celebrated moments in hockey history.
Cournoyer's career was not without its challenges. Injuries, particularly to his back, plagued him in the latter part of his career. Despite these setbacks, he continued to perform at a high level, demonstrating his resilience and determination. However, the toll of these injuries eventually led to his retirement from professional hockey in 1979.
Over the course of his career, Cournoyer played in 968 regular-season games, scoring 428 goals and 435 assists for a total of 863 points. His playoff record was equally impressive, with 64 goals and 63 assists in 147 games. These statistics underscore his status as one of the most prolific scorers of his time.
Yvan Cournoyer's contributions to the Montreal Canadiens and the sport of hockey were recognized with his induction into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 1982. His legacy continues to be celebrated by fans and players alike, and his number 12 jersey was retired by the Canadiens in 2005, ensuring that his achievements will be remembered for generations to come.
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