Mel Bridgman (2005)

If Mel Bridgman was playing in the National Hockey League today, he might be considered the prototypical power forward. Combining toughness with the ability to score - not to mention leadership qualities - the six-foot, 190 lbs centre was a valuable asset to the five teams he played for in his 14-season National Hockey League career. Bridgman was not an instant success in hockey. But his determination and pride carried him a long way and allowed him to develop quickly once he reached the junior hockey level. He set a Victoria Cougars record with 157 points in 1974-75, prompting the Philadelphia Flyers to pick him No.1 overall in the NHL draft. Arriving in the Broad Street Bullies era in Philly, the burly centre was an instant hit. His aggressive play landed him in the penalty box often but also helped notch a few extra goals. The Flyers reached the Stanley Cup final in his rookie season and again in 1979-80, after the Flyers, led by team captain Mel, went 35 games unbeaten to start the season. Bridgman enjoyed his best offensive season in Calgary, scoring 75 points in 1981- 82. He had six 20-goal seasons, retiring in 1989 with a total of 252 goals, 449 assists and 1,625 penalty minutes in 977 career regular season games. Then added 67 playoff points in 125 games. Recording yet another first. In 1992 Bridgman was named general manager of the expansion Ottawa Senators.