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Maurice Richard
Becoming the first NHL player to score 50 goals in a season and 500 in a career.
50 in 50 · Hart Trophy
- Born
- 4 August 1921
- Birthplace
- Montreal, Quebec, Canada
- Died
- 27 May 2000
More people
Maurice Richard
Maurice Richard was the Montreal Canadiens’ explosive right wing, known as the Rocket. His scoring and eight Stanley Cup victories made him a hockey legend and a powerful cultural symbol in Quebec.
Early life
Montreal childhood
Grew up in a working-class family and skated on local rivers and a backyard rink.
Trade and hockey
Worked as a machinist while developing through junior and senior hockey.
Career
- 1942
Canadiens debut
Joined Montreal’s NHL team after an injury-disrupted development period.
- 1943
The Punch Line
Formed a formidable attacking line with Elmer Lach and Toe Blake.
- 1956
Team captain
Became Canadiens captain during their run of five consecutive Stanley Cups.
- 1960
Retirement
Retired after 18 NHL seasons, all with Montreal.
Achievements
50 in 50
Scored 50 goals in the 50-game regular season.
Hart Trophy
Was named the NHL’s most valuable player.
Eight Stanley Cups
Won eight championships with the Canadiens.
Beyond sport
Quebec symbol
Became a celebrated figure for French-speaking Quebecers, with his 1955 suspension provoking the Richard Riot.
Lasting tribute
The NHL’s annual leading-goalscorer award bears his name.
Sources & photo credit
Life, career and references ↗NHL — Richard’s 50 goals ↗Photo: National Archives of Canada, Thomas Patrick Gorman fonds. Public domain · Original image. Cropped and displayed in monochrome.
