The three toughest players in history according to Brian Burke

NHL tough guys, often called enforcers, have long been a distinctive aspect of hockey culture, embodying both the physicality and intensity of the sport.

Known for their grit and willingness to put down the gloves, these players, who go beyond scoring goals or passing passes, play a special role: they protect the teammates and often changes the momentum of a game. When the team seems to be sleeping, it has long been a popular solution to send your toughest player to fight or land some hard hits.

Brawls in the NHL have always been considered a mental game and also to encourage low blows and allow players to release all round tension. Although the role of the hard man has diminished as the league has emphasized speed and skill, physicality and combat still play a role in keeping hockey players accountable on the ice.

Brian Burkewho has seen tough times in the NHL, was asked who he considered the three toughest players in NHL history and what made each player so special. Here’s what he had to say:

Tiger Williams

I have to put Tiger Williams in there. He is the all-time penalty record holder. He played in an era where you had to fight against very tough guys. It’s not like he has an easy calling card, so I put Tiger first.

Gino Odjick

I’ll put Gino Odjick in the second position. He is in the top five in penalty minutes and he is an amazing person. He is a good man. So I put Gino in there too

Bob Probert

I’ll put Probert 3rd. You can’t do this job and not be legit. But Bob Probert for me was a man who tried to win every fight. And when you try to win every fight, you lose some. This is where you have problems. If you try to get a draw in a fight, you will get a draw in a fight. But if you try to win, you will lose. He tried to win every fight, which I respect.

Recommended articles: