Between 1998 and 2004, the Tampa Bay Lightning drafted exactly two impact NHL players. They took them in the same year and even from the same team. Both would be key pieces in the only Stanley Cup win in Bolts franchise history. This summer, both players chose to retire after enjoying illustrious careers spanning more than 1,000 games in the NHL.
Now the question is whether or not they belong in the Hockey Hall of Fame.
The numbers are curiously similar at first glance. Lecavalier played 1,212 regular season games and posted 949 points. Richards appeared in 1,126 contests—86 fewer games played—but finished almost as strongly in total scoring with 932 points.
Where Richards holds a major edge is in playoff scoring. He made playoff appearances for five different franchises, putting up 105 points in 146 games. Lecavalier has only played 12 playoff games in the last five seasons and managed just four points over that span. Richards had 10 points more than Lecavalier in 2004 when both players starred in Tampa Bay’s Stanley Cup Final win.
Those who value sustained success also have some ...
Read Full Article at Bleacher Report - NHL
Article written by Jonathan Willis
Do Lightning Stars Lecavalier and Richards Belong in the Hockey Hall of Fame?
July 23rd, 2016 by Jonathan Willis Leave a reply »
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