Tonight, as Shea Weber is honored in Montreal following his induction into the Hockey Hall of Fame, one thought arises: what about Vincent Damphousse?
One of the greatest Quebec players in modern hockey history still falls short of this ultimate honor, and that begs a painful question: what else does Damphousse need to accomplish to receive the recognition he deserved?
With 1205 points in 1378 regular season games, 104 points in 140 playoff games, a Stanley Cup won in 1993 with the Canadiens and an indisputable leadership role, Vincent Damphousse’s statistics are irrefutable. He is the Quebecer with the most points in the history of the NHL who has not yet been inducted.
In comparison, Jeremy Roenick, who was just inducted in two weeks, posts similar numbers: 1,216 points in 1,363 games. But Roenick never lifted the Stanley Cup. If Roenick has his place among the immortals, why not Damphousse?
Why is the NHL treating him like this…when he has given so much for his sport.
Damphousse wasn’t just an elite player on the ice. His involvement outside the game, particularly in defending players’ rights, also deserves to be highlighted.
He played a key role in collective bargaining negotiations and was a leading player in the Players’ Association, including during the 2004 lockout.
This involvement demonstrates that Damphousse contributed not only to his team, but also to the sport as a whole. His dedication goes beyond statistics and demonstrates a deep respect for hockey and its players.
Vincent Damphousse is not the type to claim glory or complain about his absence from the Temple. Those who knew him, whether as a journalist or colleague, describe a humble, professional and respectful man.
However, it is difficult not to feel an injustice in his place, especially when comparables like Roenick reach the prestigious hockey pantheon.
With the recent induction of Shea Weber and that of Jeremy Roenick, it is high time that Vincent Damphousse’s achievements are recognized for their true value.
His family, his former teammates and his many admirers must certainly feel this omission as a crying injustice.
The Hockey Hall of Fame is intended to be a sanctuary for the greatest. It is now imperative that Vincent Damphousse finds his place there.
Not only does he deserve it, but his induction would be a symbol of justice for all the great Quebecers who have left their mark on hockey.
Tonight, as Shea Weber’s name is added to the Canadian’s ring of honor, let’s think of Vincent Damphousse, this other captain who deserves to shine among the stars.
He deserves it so much. His family too.
