Serge Savard, D
- 6’3â€, 210 lbs (like 6’5â€, 230 today)
- Inducted into the HHOF (1986)
- Stanley Cup Champion (1968, 1969, 1971, 1973, 1976, 1977, 1978, 1979)
- Conn Smythe Trophy (1969)
- Bill Masterton Trophy (1979)
- Summit Series Champion (1972, 1976)
- NHL 2nd All-Star Team (1979)
- Six times top-8 in Norris voting (4th, 5th, 5th, 5th, 6th, 8th)
- Six times top-8 in All-star voting (4th, 5th, 5th, 5th, 6th, 6th)
- 6th in Hart Voting (1979)
- Best Defense VsX scores: 80, 74, 70, 70, 66, 53, 53 (total 466, average 66.6)
- Top-4 on his team’s defense in TOI 15 times (2, 2, 2, 2, 2, 2, 3, 3, 3, 3, 3, 3, 4, 4, 4)
- Top-4 on his team’s defense in ESTOI 14 times (1, 1, 1, 2, 2, 2, 2, 2, 2, 3, 3, 4, 4, 4)
- Played 24.57 minutes (20.67 ES) per game for 1038 post-expansion games (teams 45% better than average)
- In his 8-year prime, played 26.12 minutes (21.40 ES) for teams 65% better than average
- Killed 58% of penalties for teams 22% better than average
- Montreal Canadiens Captain (1979-1981, including 1979 Cup Victory)
- All-Star Game Participant (1970, 1973, 1977, 1978)
NHL Coach’s Polls said:
Best defensive defenseman |
2nd
| 1979
Best defensive defenseman |
2nd
| 1981
Biographical
Legends of Hockey said:
Rangy defenseman Serge Savard played 17 seasons in the NHL, 15 (his first season consisted of two games) with his hometown team, the Montreal Canadiens, and two with the Winnipeg Jets, who lured him out of retirement after he'd left Montreal following the 1980-81 season.
A member of the Canadiens "Big Three" defensive stars along with Guy Lapointe and Larry Robinson, Savard was known as "the Senator" by his teammates for his involvement in activities - mostly in politics - outside the game. In the mid-1980s, he served as general manager of the Habs.
By the 1968-69 season, only his second full one in the NHL, he won the Conn Smythe Trophy as the Habs won the Cup in a four-game sweep over the Blues in the finals.
Although Savard was overshadowed by his better-known teammates, he did win another significant award during his years as a player. In 1979 the NHL presented him with the Bill Masterton Memorial Trophy, awarded annually to "the player who best exemplifies the qualities of perseverance, sportsmanship and dedication to hockey."
Savard almost didn't make it much further in NHL play, however. In a game during the 1970-71 season against the Rangers, he skated after New York's Rod Gilbert, trying to stop a breakaway. Savard dove for the puck and felt his left leg crumble underneath him. The result was five separate fractures and three operations that took him out of the game for three months.
After a complete recovery, Savard continued to have problems with the leg and further injuries. In the 1971-72 season, he suffered a new fracture to the same leg after being hit. In 1973 he injured his ankle severely as he tried to help firefighters break down a door during a fire at the Canadiens' hotel in St. Louis.
But the injuries failed to stop Savard. Upon his return to the game, he started to blend his patient, hard-working style with the hard-charging, rushing play of Lapointe and Robinson, the skillful scoring of Guy Lafleur and the outstanding play in the net of Ken Dryden. The result was another Cup for the Habs in 1976, when they swept the defending champion Philadelphia Flyers in four straight games, a victory that many relieved fans hailed as a triumph of skilled play over the fight-filled game of the Broad Street Bullies.
Internationally, Savard's attitude was rewarded by his being named to the Canadian team for the 1972 Summit Series. He appeared in five of the eight games, and - as Savard liked to remind people - Canada won four of those games and tied the other.
Legends Of Hockey One on One said:
In his second NHL season, Savard was becoming the dominant team player we reflect back upon today. For a second straight season, Montreal not only finished first in the East, but proceeded to capture the Stanley Cup. Savard was outstanding, blocking shots, clearing the zone and collecting ten points in fourteen games. His four goals was one shy of an NHL record for playoff goals by a defenseman in one season and helped earn Serge the Conn Smythe Trophy as the most valuable playoff performer as his Canadiens swept the St. Louis Blues in four games.
But injuries hampered Savard's continued progress. In a March 1970 game against the Rangers, Serge crashed into a goal post and broke his leg in five places. "There was a time when I was afraid I wouldn't play again. My leg was broken in three big places besides the chips and I got scared after the doctor took off the cast for the first time. The break was moving inside," Serge recalls. But to complicate matters, Savard returned to the Canadiens only to break the same leg again in February 1971. Caught by a Bob Baun hipcheck in a game against Toronto, the break put Serge out of action for close to a year. But the break did more than put Savard out of action; it changed his style of play. "When I was younger, I was more of a rusher but after the two bad leg injuries, I didn't have the same speed so I became more of a defensive defenseman," states Serge. Although never afraid to carry the puck, Savard was found to be invaluable in his own end. "Not many guys are hurt stopping shots," Serge explains, describing his skill as a shot blocker. "You could get killed if you get hit in the temple but the average is good. I turn sideways from twenty to twenty-five feet away and let the goalie take it. He can see it better. To me, there's no danger if you time it right. You have to be almost on top of the shooter before falling."
Despite missing substantial portions of two seasons, Serge Savard was chosen to be a member of Team Canada in the 1972 Summit Series against the Soviets. From that celebrated series, sixteen players went on to earn Hall of Fame honours. But it almost ended prematurely for Serge. Prior to the fourth game, a game played in Vancouver, a Red Berenson shot in practice caught Savard on the ankle and he sustained a hairline fracture. It was expected that Savard was done for the series, but because there was gap between Games Four and Five, owing to travel from Canada to Europe and an exhibition tour of Sweden, Savard was able to get ten full days of rest at home before returning to action. Ignoring the advice of Montreal management and his doctors, Savard travelled with Team Canada to Europe. He sat out the two exhibition games in Sweden as well as Game Five in Russia, but dressed and played in Games Six, Seven and Eight. "Lucky for me, it turned out to be just a slight crack and not another fracture," Savard sighs. Team Canada did not lose in any of the five games in which Savard played, winning four and tying one.
Serge Savard played fourteen seasons as a Montreal Canadien, and was part of eight Stanley Cup championships during that time, including four consecutive between 1976 and 1979. Serge was Montreal's captain from 1979 to 1981. But on August 12, 1981, Savard decided that he had had enough…That afternoon, Savard stated, "This is the most difficult decision of my life. As a player, you know this day is coming but you never want to believe it." Toe Blake, the former coach of the Canadiens, added, "It's been said that anyone can be replaced, but that's not the case here."
Winnipeg joined the NHL in 1979-80 and missed the playoffs in its first two seasons of existence. But with the leadership and influence of Savard patrolling the blueline, the Jets added 48 points to their regular season total of 1980-81 and finished in second place in the Norris Division in 1981-82.
Winnipeg's defense corps was very green - twenty-year olds Dave Babych and Moe Mantha, twenty-two year olds Don Spring and Tim Waters, twenty-six year old Bryan Maxwell and Barry Legge, who was the old man at 27, were joined by thirty-five year old Savard, who lent the team the knowledge of what it took to win. Serge Savard spent two seasons with the Jets, guiding the team to the division semifinals both seasons.
But individual awards eluded the wily veteran, even though his considerable presence contributed greatly to the eight Stanley Cup championships won during his prestigious career. "I never pay attention to individual awards and I think that sometimes, too many people place too much value on them."
Joe Pelletier said:
Serge Savard was a key component of the Montreal Canadiens dynasty in the 1970s. A consummate professional, Savard sacrificed personal awards and statistics for the success of his team and his teammates. Such selflessness allowed the Guy Lafleurs, Steve Shutts and Larry Robinsons achieve great acclaim, although Savard too received much recognition for his fine play.
Savard, nicknamed "The Senator" and the "Minister of Defense," played 16 seasons with the Habs, including being named captain for 2 of those years. With Savard in the line up, the Canadiens won 8 Stanley Cup championships, including 4 successive Cups from 1976 to 1979.
Savard is best known as a member of The Big Three. Along with Larry Robinson and Guy Lapointe, Savard helped to make what many consider to be the best blue line in NHL history. No other team, say many experts, has ever iced three defenseman of the same quality as The Big Three.
Savard was the elder statesman of The Big Three. A native Montrealer, Savard graduated from the Junior Canadiens to turn pro in 1966. By the 1967-68 season he was on his way to a standout career, winning his first Stanley Cup.
In just his second NHL season, Savard progressed nicely during the regular season, but dominated in the playoffs. He played incredibly through the entire post season, and picked up 4 goals and 10 points in 14 games to earn him the Conn Smythe Trophy as the NHL's Most Valuable Player in the playoffs. Savard became the first defenseman in history to win the award.
Tragedy struck Savard on January 30, 1971. In a game against the Toronto Maple Leafs, who had already had a history of knee and leg injuries, broke bones in both of his legs. He would be able to participate in only 60 games over the 1970-71 and 1971-72 seasons.
Despite the major set back, Savard was cleared to play for the the 1971-72 season. Before the season got underway Serge was asked to represent Canada against the Soviets in the now-fabled 1972 Summit Series. It is well documented just how much trouble he Canadians had with their Soviet counterparts, but Savard had a calming influence on the team and made a significant difference when he played. Savard played in only 5 of the 8 games against the Russians, and Team Canada never lost a match, going 4-0-1. Coincidence? Maybe, but there can be no doubt that Savard was a big part of the games that he did play in.
Savard returned to the NHL and continued his steady and spectacular play. However he was never noted as much of an offensive threat until the 1974-75 season. Coming off of a 4 goal, 18 point season the previous year, Serge exploded with a 20 goal, 60 point season. That season proved to be a bit of a fluke, as Serge never returned to those numbers again, although he was a consistent 5-10 goal and 40+ point threat through the rest of the Canadiens dynasty in the late 1970s.
Savard stayed in Montreal until the conclusion of the 1980-81 season. The Habs were looking to bring in some youth and exposed Savard on the preseason waiver draft. The Winnipeg Jets, the worst team in hockey, eagerly claimed the wily veteran. The Jets, who had never made the playoffs and finished the previous season with an awful 32 points, convinced Savard to play for them as opposed to retiring. In Savard's first year with Winnipeg, the Jets made the playoffs and improved by 48 points!
Despite suffering two broken legs early in his career, Savard has an impressive collection of awards. Savard earned the Conn Smythe Trophy as most valuable player in the Stanley Cup playoffs in 1969, and was also awarded the Bill Masterton Memorial Trophy for perseverance, sportsmanship and dedication to hockey. He was also named in 1979 to the NHL Second All-Star Team. Serge likely would have been named to more All Star Teams but he was overshadowed by the offensive likes of Bobby Orr, Brad Park, Denis Potvin and teammates Robinson and Lapointe. Nonetheless, Serge is also an enshrined member of the Hockey Hall of Fame.
chidlovski.com said:
One of the finest NHL defensemen of all time, Serge Savard had an outstanding career with the glorious Montreal Canadiens dynasty of the 1970’s. He was recognized as a very slick blueliner and an amazing team player who always put team interests above his personal ambitions and results. His slick technique in skating and puck handling, dedication to hockey and sportsmanship brought him numerous individual and team professional hockey awards.
PERFORMANCE IN THE 1972 SUMMIT
Serge Savard played in five games of the 1972 Summit. Needless to say, that none of these five games was lost. By all means, Savard was one of the best Canadian defensemen in the tournament. He arguably earned a lot of respect and appreciation for a very fine performance by the Soviet fans.
Legends Of Hockey: Pinnacle said:
When the Canadian team was being assembled to compete against the Soviet Union in the 1972 Summit Series, assistant coach John Ferguson convinced head coach Harry Sinden that Serge Savard had to be in the mix. Although Savard was recovering from the second of two consecutive broken legs, restricting his play to just 23 games in 1971-72 and 37 the year before, Ferguson had been a teammate of Savard's in Montreal and knew him to be a fierce competitor with considerable skills.
Montreal Canadiens: Our History said:
The first of the “Big Three†to make the NHL roster, Savard saw spot duty during the 1968-69 season, getting more ice time as the season progressed. That spring, the Stanley Cup was paraded down Ste. Catherine Street for the third time in four years. Savard would be a member of seven other triumphant Habs squads in his 12 years patrolling the blue line.
He came into his own the following season, taking a regular shift from the opening game and himself as one of the NHL’s rising offensive defensemen. Fast, manoeuvrable and a skillful stickhandler, Savard’s dizzying spins to avoid checkers regularly made the highlight reels. Legendary broadcaster Danny Gallivan coined the phrase “Savardian Spin-o-rama†to try to describe the move.
The Habs made the playoffs and Savard picked up 10 points in the 14 games it took for the Canadiens to capture the 1969 Stanley Cup. This time, Savard had his own silverware to show off, adding a Conn Smythe Trophy to his collection to become the first defenseman to ever earn playoff MVP honors.
Over the course of his career in Montreal, Savard missed very few games in most seasons. When he did go down, however, it was for extended periods of time. He suffered two leg fractures a mere 11 months apart, costing Savard most of two complete seasons and robbing him of much of his speed.
When he came back to play the final games of the 1971-72 season, Savard adapted his game. No longer the speedy, offensive threat he had once been, Savard became one of the league’s best stay-at-home blue-liners, using smarts, size and an uncanny ability to block shots to compensate for his lost swiftness.
Selected to play for Team Canada in the 1972 Summit Series, Savard played in five games - the lone tie as well as all four Canadian victories – proving himself on the international stage.
The Canadiens piled up the Cups and Savard, learning from the veterans who preceded him, became a respected elder statesman on the team. In 1978-79, he won the Bill Masterton Trophy. The next fall, he succeeded Yvan Cournoyer as team captain, proudly wearing the “C†until his retirement following the 1980-81 season.
Ultimate Hockey said:
The big, easy going defender had his first taste of stardom in 1969… a key member of the 1972 Team Canada that beat the Soviets… early in his career, his game was one of skating, puck control and defensive excellence. Like J.C. Tremblay before him, Savard knew how to set a game’s tempo… during the latter half of the 70s, the man whose silky smooth play inspired the term “Savardian Spin-o-ramaâ€, was one third of what is still considered possibly the finest defensive trio ever assembled… Winnipeg had failed to make the playoffs in its first two NHL seasons. With Savard on the roster, they earned 80 points and made the postseason at last.
In a word… MELLOW
The Hockey News Top-100 NHL Players of All-Time (1997) said:
#81: Serge Savard: the only player in the 1972 Summit series who did not play in a losing game… a gifted, resourceful defenseman… an outspoken critic of violence in hockey.
Who’s Who In Hockey said:
A star Canadiens blue-liner during the 1970's...Canadiens farm system spawned a pair of promising young defensemen, Carol Vadnais and Serge Savard. The latter became a Montreal icon..
Habs Heroes said:
#12: Serge Savard: the greatest defensive defenseman in franchise history… before his leg injuries, Savard was establishing himself as an offensive defenseman, but the days of headlong rushes up the ice ended shortly after his 25th birthday… “I don’t think I ever recovered 100%. I didn’t take as many chances and I really became a defensive defenseman. I think, too, it forced me to become a smarter player.â€â€¦Robinson’s forays up ice were always executed with knowledge that Savard was watching his back. In fact, there were years Robinson won the Norris trophy and acknowledged Savard should have been the winner…Savard had a signature move in which he would use his big body to protect the puck and spin around to avoid forecheckers… it seems amazing now Savard was a postseason all-star just once… as Savard got older and his game began to deteriorate, fans in Montreal turned on him. He was often booed mercilessly at home and made the decision to retire at 35 in the summer of 1981…
Kings Of the Ice said:
Fans and coaches alike began to appreciate the defensive ability and all-around play that Savard brought to the team… “His versatility is one of his strong points,†said Floyd Curry. “Just look at the length of his arms and you’ll see the reason why he can poke out his stick and break up so many plays.â€â€¦ Scotty Bowman was a little less philosophical regarding Savard’s contributions to the team. “There are few superior players in the league, and there are few who contribute more to this team. And there are few who have shown more courage.â€
Players: The Ultimate A-Z Guide Of Everyone Who Has Ever Played in the NHL said:
He was not the puckhandler that Larry Robinson was but he was a big man who could check with the best of them...
Canadiens Legends: Montreal's Hockey Heroes said:
Savard's game was built around his great ability to handle the puck and use his size effectively. Always a clean player, he rarely lost his temper. He was a good skater and didn't mind lugging the puck. Never one to panic in his game, he was very smooth defensively.
Forever Rivals said:
A flashy skater until a badly broken leg slowed him down, Savard was a rock in his own zone and one of the best ever at moving players from in front of the net.
The Greatest Game: The Montreal Canadiens said:
With a little over two minutes remaining in the game, Guy Lapointe shoots the puck behind the net on to the stick of his defensive partner, Serge Savard, who carries the puck up the boards. Out of the corner of his eye, he spots a streaming Paul Henderson darting through center ice. Thanks to Savard's amazing precision and awareness, the puck and Henderson meet at the Soviet blue line. Confronted by two Soviet defenseman, Henderson manages to get around them, and while falling, pinches the puck between Tretiak's arm and body for the winning goal....backing them up is the twosome of Guy Lapointe and Serge Savard, who were one of the most valuable defensive pairings for Team Canada in the 1972 Summit Series....Alexander Gusev finds an opening to take a slapshot on the Canadiens' goal, only to have the puck deflected into the crowd by an alert Serge Savard.
Honored Canadiens said:
Any teenager has attributes and faults, and Savard was no exception. On the plus side, he was big and strong, and a fluid skater who maintained his poise. On the downside, he was weak defensively and had a poor shot, but he was able to overcome the former through experience and coaching, and the latter through good old-fashioned practice and hard work… his role continued to grow and grow, and he even played the occasional shift at Lleft wing when injuries left Toe Blake’s team a little vulnerable on that side… his conn smythe trophy was given to him based on two factors. One, he was the best penalty killer in the playoffs, and two, he contributed key offensive points… (after his injury) his days of end-to-end rushes and wild play were over, and he devoted himself to strong positional play and more modest offensive contributions…
One-liners
Let's Talk Hockey: 50 Wonderful Debates said:
There's a reason I love Savard. He is the one of the most unsung players in NHL history. Take Savard away from those Canadiens teams and they don't win four cups in a row.
Thunder and Lightning: A No B.S. Hockey Memoir said:
Jean Beliveau and Serge Savard were unbelievable....I thought it was a huge move, and he put in three gritty players, Serge Savard, Billy White, and Patty Stapleton..the game-winner was scored in overtime by Serge Savard. Serge was steady, not flashy. God, he was good. He twirled at the blue line. He came in and blasted one over J.D.'s left shoulder...
Searching for Bobby Orr said:
The Soviets assistant coach Arkady Tchernishev agreed, singling out Orr and fellow defensemen Jim McKenny and Serge Savard for praise.
Ken Dryden: The Game said:
...If you need a team to be cool and unflappable, you need at least one Savard, to reassure you, to let you know that the time and the team needed to do what you want are still there.
Robinson for the Defense said:
Serge Savard was the ultimate defensive defenseman.
Lord Stanley’s Cup said:
A true testament to Serge Savard’s early reputation came at the 1967 expansion draft when Pollock left Carol Vadnais available so he could protect the emerging, speedy hulk.
Simply the Best: Insights and Strategies from Great Hockey Coaches said:
If I see them now, like a Dryden or Savard, even if I had an average rapport with them when they were playing, I often comment that I didn't realize how good they were. When I watch games now that Serge Savard played in I know I never realized how he made very few errors. He played something like Nicklas Lidstrom.
Twenty Greatest Hockey Goals said:
Savard was inserted to shore up the play in Canada's end.
Trusting the Tale said:
The other natural wit on the Canadiens is their elder statesman, Serge Savard, a man who is so good at what he does that you can't believe that he's doing what he's doing while he's doing it.
Ken Dryden said:
They came at us in brigades, but our defensemen, particularly Serge Savard, repeatedly broke up their passing plays near the net.
Clippings, Cards, Scouting Reports From During His Career
The Hockey News said:
Savard has come along as one of the most promising young rearguards in the league. So much so that Montreal may have a real problem in the draft to protect other defensemen… retained in place of Carol Vadnais, Savard had always played mostly on the left side… then Terry Harper started having trouble with his knee and Savard got a real opportunity on the right side… “I hesitated to use him regularly on the right,†recalled Ruel. “But then he started playing well and I decided the right side was his best spot. Serge proved to me that he’s willing to work and when he decides to skate he’s hard to beat. This kid is loaded with talent. I said before the season that he has the making of one of the best defensemen in the league in a couple of years and now I’m sure if it.†… Savard, a likeable young man with a touch of class off the ice, started out a little nonchalant and was making silly mistakes for a while. However he picked up tremendously in the second halfof the season and has had a hot hand in putting Canadiens into contention… the youngster has speed, makes a good pass, fires a fairly accurate shot and rates as one of the finest stickhandlers among NHL defensemen. His man fault is a tendency to rush too often… besides his strong efforts on defense – he can bodycheck when necessary – Savard has emerged as a fine penalty killer. Recently he took Gilles Tremblay’s place as a partner to Claude Provost and held the opposition scoreless during six powerplays.
The Hockey News said:
EXCITING SERGE SAVARD NEW HABS SUPERBOY
There are times when his coach and teammates would like to strangle Savard. Meantime, they’ve named him “Superboy†as the early star of the playoffs. Some nights he has been bent on self destruction after costing the team a big goal – as he did in game 2 against Boston. Although killing a penalty, he made the mistake of trying to carry the puck deep in his own zone instead of clearing or passing. Johhy Bucyk checked him and John McKenzie wound up with a goal. But then Savard does a turnabout for some great plays that makes him want to live a little longer. Like a great burst of speed to break up a 2-on-0 rush, crowding the crease to get the tying goal with only 69 seconds to play and firing the point shot that pays off in overtime.
Savard has earned the “Superboy†tag in a joking way from teammates, somewhat critical of the way the 23-year old reardguard, penalty killer and at times left winger tries to do things all by himself. He enjoys lugging the puck, often at a deceptively slow pace without passing, or giving his mates heart failure by spinning in his own zone even as the last man back… “Serge is an example of the spirit you need in the playoffs,†says Ruel. “You can’t ask for more than he has given my club since the start of the season.â€â€¦most critical of Savard's daring play has been Gump Worsley who keeps warning the young rearguard to “stay back once in a whileâ€. However, the Gumper had nothing but praise for Savard’s overall effort in the semifinal against New York… “I disn’t play so much during the first part of the season. I’d go on on the ice for a shift and not really know whether I’d be back again. Now, even if I make a mistake, I know I’ll be back and it makes everything a lot easier. I know where I am going.â€
Dick Beddoes said:
Serge Savard, in fact belongs in the present tense. He revealed in the Boston series that he is 1-2 with Robert Orr as the prodigal young defensemen in hockey, and not necessarily 2.
The Hockey News said:
Claude Ruel is not complaining about the choice of Serge Savard as playoff MVP… “Serge was marvelous the way he made so much progress all season.â€
“The writers kept telling me I was going to win the trophy but I didn’t really believe them.â€â€¦ Savard had a big part in each series win for the Habs. Besides filling his defense post, Superboy also turned in strong efforts as a penalty killer and wound up as Montreal’s 4th leading point scorer…
Jim Proudfoot Hockey 1969-70 said:
he was a green youngster in pretty classy company but his playoff work was truly sensational. He played well on defense all the way through, he moved up to the forward line when penalties left Canadiens understaffed, and he also contributed four important goals and six assists. “Boston can have Bobby Orr,†said coach Claude Ruel. “We’re happy with Savard.â€
The Hockey News said:
In the weekend double against Chicago and Detroit, Savard worked mostly as a penalty killer – a role he fills about the best in the league…
The Hockey News said:
Serge Savard, one of the most consistent performers all season on defense penalty killing and left wing, was sidelined for the season. He crashed into the goalpost early in the 3rd period of that March 11th game… Savard had made a great play by getting back in time to check Vic Hadfield but lost his balance and fell against the cage… loss of the versatile youngster was felt right down the line of Canadiens who realized his value to the club all season. He had been one of the stars of that win over New York… Claude Ruel tried to take it in stride… “we’re going to miss Serve but maybe the rest of the guys will think of the money he helped put in their pockets in the playoffs last year.â€
Jim Proudfoot Hockey 1970-71 said:
everyone agrees what when it comes to outstanding young defensemen, Serge Savard is one of the best, right up there with Bobby Orr and Brad Park. Yet, his future was very much in doubt heading into the 1970-71 season… it is by no means certain he’ll make a complete recovery… it is no secret how important he is to the Canadiens’ overall well-being… Large and mobile, Savard does two jobs for the Canadiens: He is a reliable defenseman and, when Montreal is penalized, he moves to the forward line as one of hockey’s most adept penalty killers.
The Hockey News said:
What does the future hold for Serge Savard? The medics can’t tell as yet because it’s too early to determine what effects a second broken leg in less than a year will have on him… he will be in a cast for anywhere from 6 weeks to 3 months… Canadiens are certain to feel the pinch. He was just starting to regain the form that once made him a Conn Smythe winner… Coach Al Macneil was crestfallen at the news… lately Savard and Laperriere had been playing like they never missed a shift…
Stan Fischler: Hockey Stars of 1971 said:
...as it turns out, the Canadiens won the game 5-3, and they were paced for most of the 60 minutes by a tall, husky french canadian named Serge Savard. "He's like two players," said Ranger GM/coach Emile Francis. "He plays a solid defense and he can kill penalties with the best of them." During one of his late tours of ice duty Savard made a desperate lunge to prevent a Ranger goal and in the process fell heavily on his leg, breaking it in two places... the talented Savard was through for the season... it was a loss the Canadiens could ill afford to sustain because Savard, in the eyes of many, was the most valuable player on the team... In describing the Habs not long ago, Peter Gzowski pinpointed their distinct quality: "on the ice, they swoop, skating like fury and burning with zeal; they are somehow romantic, like Scaramouche or Cyrano of Jean Gascon."... Savard is relatively new, but there is strong evidence he will someday be compared with such honoured montreal backliners as Bouchard, Reardon and Harvey... his long strides, his thudding bodychecks and his calm in the face of stormy games suggested he could be an all-star in a couple of years... in the 1969 playoffs all of a sudden Savard became a commanding figure, lugging the puck on long rink-length dashes, playing the stout defensive game and looking like a man who would never need a cold shower to awaken him... after 2 games in the finals, Savard could boast that he (a) set up all three Montreal goals in the opening match, (b) tied the game in the second contest, and (c) assisted on the sudden death winner in game 2. Suddenly critics began noticing the young man whom Ruel had been touting all along. "Serge is an example of the competitive spirit you need in the playoffs. It is impossible to demand more from him than he gave since the start of the season." The kudos weren't limited to Montreal observers, either... the Boston Globe singled out Savard as the top man in the series. "Savard has matured into one of the Habs' most accomplished players in the playoffs."... throughout the final speculation was rife over which Montreal player would skate off with the Conn Smythe trophy as the MVP. Beliveau, Duff, and Vachon were all candidates but the favourite remained Savard. "He did everything for the Canadiens," said Jim Proudfoot, "even including a spot of goaltending when the regular netminders got trapped out of position. He played defense, he was point man on the power plays and he moved up to a forward position during most Montreal penalties. He excelled in each role and even found time to contribute some vital scoring plays."
Complete handbook Of Pro Hockey 1971-72 said:
A superb defenseman whose career has been threatened by a broken leg two years ago… refractured the leg last season and now must try to come back again… developed so quickly that Canadiens were able to trade another youngster, Carol Vadnas, to Oakland… excellent penalty killer… only question is whether his leg will mend well enough.
Jim Proudfoot Hockey 1971-72 said:
there is grave doubt about Serge Savard’s future in hockey, and that is a tragedy because only two years ago this superbly gifted youngster led the Canadiens to a Stanley Cup victory and won the Conn Smythe trophy… “We’re hopeful (that he can recover) because we can really use him. He’s a fine defenseman and has the speed to move up on the forward line to kill penalties.â€
The Hockey News said:
The man who may prove to be the answer to a lot of the Habs’ checking problems will have to sit it out for a while longer. Doctors have advised Serge Savard that his injured leg will benefit from additional rest… he came to the Canadiens in 67-68 and impressed with his size, speed and mobility…
The Hockey News said:
Savard, a star of the first magnitude before suffering two leg fractures over the past two seasons, returned to action earlier this month… early reports on his play were encouraging… “some guys said I’d be worried about going into the corners when I got back… they were wrong.†Savard’s size, speed and puck sense made him one of the most valuable defensemen on the team and the Habs have missed him plenty. He had also developed into a penalty killer almost without peer.
The Hockey News said:
His first game back was against Chicago, and he picked up two assists, while showing a willingness to mix it up along the boards and in corners… watching him in the games, you could see flashes of the old skill and ability. At his best, Savard is one of the most mobile rearguards in hockey and he still has the nifty moves. It’s the pace at which he makes them that’s changed. He is, not surprisingly, a lot slower than he used to be. “I haven’t really hit full stride. It will take time. And, timing. You lose that when you’re on the shelf.â€
Jim Proudfoot said:
It is no coincidence that the revival of Team Canada in this hockey showdown with the Soviet Union dates back to Serge Savard's return to the defence corps. Nor is it any accident that the Canadians have won three and tied one of the four games in which Savard has been available to add mobility and offensive thrust to an otherwise awkward rearguard.
Jim Proudfoot Hockey 1972-73 said:
Team Canada never lost a game to Russia while Savard was in the lineup… it meant that after three years of tragic misfortune, Savard was once again the versatile young defenseman who’d won the Conn Smythe trophy for dominating the 1969 playoffs… the Canadiens have missed his dynamic two-way play…
Complete handbook Of Pro Hockey 1973-74 said:
was on his way to stardom when he fractured his leg again… one of the biggest defensemen in the NHL… can carry the puck from his own end or feed crisp passes to his forwards… hits hard and has become a polished stick checker.
OPC 1973-74 said:
Serge is another of the Canadiens’ fine puck-carrying defensemen. A series of leg injuries have hampered his progress, but he missed only four games last season. A strong skater with good puck sense, he won the Conn Smythe trophy in 1969 and is just now returning to the all-star form he displayed that season.
Stan Fischler: Hockey Stars of 1974 said:
Montreal hockey fans are appreciative of his contributions during the 1972-73 campaign and the Canadiens' march to the Stanley Cup last May. Serge's play was so impressive that onlookers were quick to remind eachother that he looked just like the Savard of 1969 when he paced the Canadiens to the Stanley Cup... but a series of crippling injuries not only intervened but threatened to end his career, and it was only after last season that Savard once again put together the kind of defensive portfolio that once made him Orr's closest rival.... he explains that maturity has made him "more of a defenseman now" than he had been in his youth...
OPC 1974-75 said:
Serge is an offensive type of defenseman who relies on superior skating ability to create scoring opportunities. Injuries have plagued him, but when he’s healthy, Serge is one of the most dependable defenseman around… a free-wheeling skater able to rush down ice and recover his position quickly.
Complete handbook Of Pro Hockey 1974-75 said:
Ranks among the league’s best rearguards… still superb puck carrier and hard hitter.
Complete handbook Of Pro Hockey 1975-76 said:
one of the league’s top two-way defenseman… kills penalties as a forward.
Jim Proudfoot Hockey 1975-76 said:
defended efficiently and often moved to the forward line against opposition power plays, working with Jimmy Roberts on that detail.
Complete handbook Of Pro Hockey 1976-77 said:
Another excellent season for this respected defender… moves to forward killing penalties.
Jim Proudfoot Hockey 1976-77 said:
Praise from the opposition is absolutely the best kind and Philadelphia defenseman Joe Watson said during last spring’s playoffs: “To me, Serge Savard is the best player in hockey today. Nobody controls the puck the way he does and, when all is said and done, what else do you want a defenseman to do?â€
OPC 1976-77 said:
A superb puck carrier and playmaker, Serge was the 2nd highest scoring montreal defenseman last season. He plays a fine positional game, and always keeps the puck moving.
The Hockey News said:
SAVARD STILL DOING IT ALL AS HABS KEEP ROLLING.
…save a small cheer for Serge Savard, who says he is not playing the best hockey of his career, but pretty close to it… as far as Montreal fans are concerned, Savard is an all-star in every sense of the word. Bowman doesn’t hesitate to use him, no matter what situation the Canadiens face on the ice…. He is used on his regular shift, kills penalties and sees some action on the power play… often when the Canadiens are forced to kill a penalty, Bowman will go with three defensemen, using Savard as a forward because of his checking ability and also his talents at ragging the puck… his play this year has been exceptional and is part of the reason why the Canadiens continue to enjoy a huge amount of success.
Complete handbook Of Pro Hockey 1977-78 said:
In the so-called Big Three, Savard is usually considered the key to the defense, the cool catalyst who controls the tempo of the game… took over as interim captain when Yvan Cournoyer underwent spinal surgery late in season… noted for two courageous comebacks from broken legs… same mobility as others on Montreal blueline allows him to move to forward at times to kill penalties…
Jim Proudfoot Hockey 1977-78 said:
When Yvan Cournoyer was hospitalized with back problems last season, Serge Savard was chosen to take over as temporary captain. It was an accurate measurement of the esteem with which he is regarded by both his bosses and his colleagues. He is a team leader and the Canadiens’ most versatile player… since receiving the Conn Smythe trophy he has never agan received any such nomination or significant all-star support. Yet many rate him the best rearguard in the business. “His main asset is his tremendous mobilityâ€, says Scotty Bowman. “He’s great at getting the puck out of his own zone. And he skates so well that I move him up the forward line when we’re shorthanded. He’s an excellent penalty killer… perhaps it’s his versatility that’s deprived him of some of the recognition he should be getting. All I know is that when he’s on the ice, he totally controls the play.â€
The Hockey News said:
A WINNING PLAYER
…Savard is one of the lesser recognized members of the star-studded Canadiens, but he is one of the better reasons why Montreal is making a strong run at a 3rd consecutive cup… most of the glory goes to the spectacular skater and scorer, Guy Lafleur, or the enormous rushing defenseman, Larry Robinson, or towering goalkeeper Ken Dryden, which is fair enough, but if you want to get into the guts of this tremendous team, you start to talk about the Serge Savards, Bob Gaineys and Jacques Lemaires, who shine in the shadows. “Ah, I just do a job,†shrugs the large, dark, scowling Savard… he has given everything to the game, surviving a series of severe injuries, and becoming one of the dominant defensive defensemen in the sport… he was a rushing defenseman when he turned pro… big, strong, swift and mobile, he hit hard and had a hard shot… in the playoffs, he scored four goals, assisted on six others, defended flawlessly and for his spirited and effective all-around play he was selected as the first defenseman to ever win the Smythe… “so much was expected of me I couldn’t have lived up to it. The injuries give me an excuse for not being what I might have been,†he grins. “…I’m not the rushing player I once was, but I’m a better player than I ever was. I’m not blind, I know you have to get goals to get all-star votes. But I only go for goals when we need them.â€â€¦ the Norris trophy is supposed to go to the best defenseman, but when Larry Robinson won it last season he said Savard should have won it…
Complete handbook Of Pro Hockey 1978-79 said:
He’s the big, dependable defenseman on hockey’s stingiest team… nevertheless, he has always been overlooked when it came to handing out awards… but hockey people recognize him as an all-star…
Jim Proudfoot Hockey 1978-79 said:
It is almost incredible that in 11 seasons, Serge Savard has never made an all-star team and has never won a prize for regular season achievements… even though he undeniably is one of the best defensemen in the game. “maybe his versatility hurts him,†coach Bowman suggests. “He plays on the forward line a lot when we’re killing penalties and he always does a lot of offensive work.†Says Philly veteran Joe Watson: “Savard is the best player in the league. He controls the puck all the time he’s on the ice, like Bobby Orr used to for Boston.â€
Complete handbook Of Pro Hockey 1979-80 said:
classy, intelligent old pro of best defense in NHL, he usually stays back and allows Larry Robinson or Guy Lapointe to make rink-length rushes…
Jim Proudfoot Hockey 1979-80 said:
Hockey people had always considered it a terrible miscarriage of justice that Savard hadn’t won any individual awards since the 1969 Conn Smythe. For a whole decade he’d been one of the very best defensemen and one of the finest all-around performers in the business…
Complete handbook Of Pro Hockey 1980-81 said:
crafty, wise defenseman who knows all the subtle little tricks of playing the position… among hockey’s most respected men.
Jim Proudfoot Hockey 1980-81 said:
When Cournoyer’s retirement became official, Savard was confirmed as the new captain. He’d occupied the post temporarily during 1978-79… unfortunately, Savard wasn’t able to provide the necessary leadership during his first year on the job. He spent most of the schedule with his right foot in a cast, and a lot of the remaining time trying to regain his conditioning… just when he seemed at his best again, the Canadiens were eliminated… losing the cup, of course, was a rare experience for Savard.
The Hockey News said:
No one was shocked… some people were sad. Serge Savard announced his retirement from hockey last month… he admitted he knew his career was over last April. He was the last to leave the ice after the Canadiens were eliminated, and had intimated to his teammates that he had played his last game with them… throughout the 1980-81 season, he struggled and was often jeered by the critical paying customers at the Forum… “the last two years have been sad for me. I didn’t like the way things went the last two years.â€
The Hockey News said:
Plucked from the waiver wire, Savard said he would consider the invitation to play for the Jets. “He seems interested,†said John Ferguson… Meanwhile, the Canadiens scoffed at the mere suggestion Savard would even consider playing for another NHL team… The team is young and improving, but it needs Savard’s leadership, his experience and his stabilizing features. “Having Savard on the team would be a Christmas bonus,†said Tom Watt. “I know he would help me. Young players would benefit from having him around. He would see many things that would elude me. I think he would be ideal.†But can he still play? “You bet he can,†said Watt. “Two years ago he was one of the premier defensemen in the NHL. You can’t tell me he’s slipped that much.â€
The Hockey News said:
complications (in signing Savard) arose when it becamse known that he had received his entire salary from the Canadiens for the current season with the stipulation that he would neither work nor play for any other NHL team… left unprotected in the waiver draft, Savard was selected by the Jets… Savard is interested, but doesn’t want to return the money paid to him by the Canadiens, who blundered by not putting him on the voluntary retired list… Ferguson expected to have the matter cleared up by December. But he’s not inclined to give the Canadiens a thin dime for a player they were obviously prepared to give up… Savard is well aware of the Jets’ crying need for an experienced defenseman… “I’m convinced Serge could play at least 2 more years. The Canadiens thought so too.â€
The Hockey News said:
JETS LOOKING FORWARD TO APRIL HOCKEY
Today, it’s a different story and a man who is playing an instrumental role in the turnabout of the Jets is Savard… Undoubtedly he is their leader. Teammates worship him… “I’m very happy I made the decision I did,†said Savard… he has been an imposing figure on the Jets’ defense. Huge by Winnipeg’s standards, Savard can bump and grind with the biggest forwards, reach far in every direction and make the subtle moves that can shrug off a checker and allow him to send a forward on his way. He plays according to the score, slowing the pace down when the Jets are ahead in an almost hypnotic fashion and leading rushes when they are behind… “this team is starting to believe in itself. I think we realize we are as good as Chicago. Maybe better.†He doesn’t miss the strain associated with being a member of the Canadiens… Savard’s conditioning has improved remarkably. Some nights he appears to be in the ice for at least half the game. “I’m quite pleased with myself,†he said. “I feel I can play a game the way I always could. It’s a great feeling when you are out there, knowing you can be effective again.â€â€¦ “You can’t help but improve playing on the same team as Serge,†said Dave Babych. “You can learn just by watching him.â€
The Hockey News said:
until now, Serge Savard has had nothing but good things to say about the Canadiens. But he was upset with the Habs on the eve of his return to the forum. It was all because the Canadiens had made the decision to give Jeff Brubaker his old sweater - #18. “For my whole career, I’ve spoken out against violence. But the thing that bothers me is that they have given my sweater to a guy who established an NHL record by fighting three times in his first 40 seconds on the ice against Philadelphia.â€
The Hockey News said:
On this night, both players were typically efficient. At their ages, neither will attempt many solo rushes. But offense isn’t what their teams want from them. What the Blues and Jets want is their intelligence, leadership, and the benefit of their vast experience. Since Savard was coaxed out of retirement, he has provided Winnipeg exactly what it wanted… when Lapointe and Savard were at their peaks in Montreal, it was a joy to watch… Robinson was the only one of the three to win the Norris, but if you had voted for Lapointe or Savard, no one would have escorted you out of town or checked your marbles. That’s how good they all were… with half a season in Winnipeg, we’ve seen what a contribution Savard has made. The Jets are the NHL’s most improved team thanks largely to Savard’s calming influence behind the blueline and off the ice.
The Hockey News said:
MASTER OF DEFENSE
Serge Savard – rangy and rising 37 and old by the standards of the 1982 NHL – hasn’t allowed the seasons to steal his style. It was gratifying to see him on the Winnipeg defense this past winter… Savard was the hub of the Winnipeg rearguard… came to the Jets from another time to remind them how defense used to be played in the NHL. Here he was, making passes quick and accurate and soft enough to handle. Here he was, sating in stately fashion, moving as Rex MacLeod once described Allan Stanley, “snoeshowing in from the point.†From the distance of the stands, it seems that Savard is unscarred by the years. Yet he was hampered by broken bones in three of his first six seasons… To see him on a night not long ago in Toronto was to realize that at least one defenseman in the NHL knows more than how to merely spell d-e-f-e-s-n-e.
Toronto’s John Anderson would come riding down the left wing and there’d be Savard to ride him off, impeding him with a stick across the torso just long enough to throw him off stride and escape the ref’s attention. Or Bill Derlago would throw a pass to Rick Vaive on right wing that wasn’t completed because Savard got there first to knock it away with a long poke check. Savard was breaking up plays on the right and left sides, because, depending on who his Winnipeg partner was, he played right and left defense. A Toronto attacker would try to escape along the boards and, frequently, Savard scrubbed him along the fence, steering him out of the play. Chances are Savard isn’t as effective against the few respectable NHL teams as he was against the Leafs…
From the pressbox you can’t see the seams in Savard’s expression or the bend in his nose. You can’t count the pucks he’s intercepted or the flashy forwards he’s ridden off. You can remember the big sweeping manner he rushed the puck, or, in the act of shooting, the way he spun around on one leg for his spin-o-rama shot… he’s left much of himself in places such as the Forum and Luzhniki Arena in Moscow… a constant winner on teams going for the Stanley Cup or the championship of the planet. What he’s been has gone slowly, not as a hockey stick breaks, but as many nights gash the ice of hockey rinks. Savard is still prepared to squander himself in these playoffs, a stranger in the playpen. The Jets may not be good enough to beat Minnesota for the title, but they are something above the ordinary, as long as they have Serge.
Complete handbook Of Pro Hockey 1982-83 said:
The wise, crafty Savard, who’s slow in the feet but swift in the head, played sound defense and was invaluable in aiding the young backliners. He became the club’s unofficial leader who showed the Jet kids how a classy big leaguer handles himself, on the ice and off… becamse anchor of Jets’ backline… not flashy on the attack but excellent defensively.
Jim Proudfoot Hockey 1982-83 said:
Jets got their leader when John Ferguson finally persuaded Savard to give up retirement before the midway point of the season… “I knew he’d play tremendous hockey for us… I knew he’d teach our guys a lot. And off the ice, he’d show the kids what it means to be a big leaguer and winner.†And sure enough, it didn’t take Savard long to become just as efficient as his old teammate predicted he’d be. “It’s unbelievable, the difference Serge made,†says 20-year old Dave Babych. “I learn just by watching him. Like, I previously thought of playing the man first and then the puck. He showed me how you’ve got to do both things at once.â€
The Hockey News said:
Savard still going strong after 1000 NHL games
…there was a time when people thought he was injury prone… they feared his career would last fewer than 200 games, let alone 1000… “mayne he didn’t rush as much after two broken legs, but the great power he has in his arms and his mind, well, I knew he would be around for a long time,†says Ferguson… “personally, I haven’t changed. I’m still a defensive player. But the league has changed. There are more shootouts now. It’s become a wide open league.â€
“I’ve been impressed by himâ€, says Ferguson. “He can still play. And I’m certainly interested in keeping him for as long as he wants to play.†Savard has made an impact on people. Fans find him entertaining, the media engaging, his coach enhancing and his teammates enchanting. “Serge does coach, but in his own way,†said Tom Watt. “He chirps at the right time when he is working with layers. Often we discuss defensive alignments together. But he has no titles. He is just a player. That’s how he wants it.†Watt appreciates the influence he has had on the Jets’ defensemen, most of whom have barely started their careers. “I can’t describe how much he’s helped me,†said Tim waters. “He’s settled me down, helped me relax. Since day one, I’ve admired the way he can control a game. He has great confidence in himself.†If one player has profited immensely by savard’s influence, Dave Babych has. He is no longer as flippant as he once was. He does not bog down as easily. Today, he is playing instinctively, intelligently and forcefully… Perhaps a fraction slower but infinitely wiser, Savard has lent size, maturity and moxy to a team that appears to be going places under his example and direction.
The Hockey News said:
THANKS FOR THE MEMORIES
Savard was an ideal combination of skill and smarts during his career. Serious leg injuries decreased his speed, but few backliners in history took a more cerebral approach to the sport... Savard was a member of perhaps the best defense ever owned by an NHL team… no other club has ever had three of the game’s best 6-7 defensemen on its roster at one time… a few Savard boosters were puzzled that he wasn’t named to more all-star teams or picked for other awards… At the Stanley cup luncheon in 1979, Savard was asked about the lack of trophies in his career. “Oh, you think I’ve never won any trophies? Well there’s a big silver cup over there on that head table that means everything in the game and if you look closely, you’ll see my name on it a few times.â€
In his own words:
That game convinced me that God must be a Russian. If he's not, how do you explain a tie when we outplay them by so much?
The team is in the culture of the people around here. If you're from here (Montreal), you felt that way all through your youth. It's in people's blood. People identified with our club and it doesn't have anything to do with language.
When I was younger, I was more of a rusher but after the two bad leg injuries, I didn't have the same speed so I became more of a defensive defenseman.
My duties were clear. No one expected me to carry the club on my shoulders.
I had been on Stanley Cup teams but it was nothing quite like winning against the Soviets that year.
I was a member of eight Stanley Cup teams, but this was the greatest experience of my career! I don't think that was the best team I ever played on. That would have to be the '76 Canada Cup team with Bobby Orr. As far as Montreal teams go, the '76-77 team was the best. I thought it was a great team.
The Best Penalty Killing Defenseman of All-Time?
Savard is definitely in the conversation. Here is the list of all defensemen with at least 500 post-expansion games, 50+% PK usage, and with team results at least 5% better than the average:
Name|GP|PK usage%|% above avg
ORR, BOBBY | 596 | 63% | 31%
LAPOINTE, GUY | 884 | 52% | 31%
HAJT, BILL | 854 | 57% | 30%
SCHOENFELD, JIM | 719 | 56% | 29%
GIRARDI, DAN | 651 | 54% | 26%
LIDSTROM, NICKLAS | 1564 | 51% | 24%
SAVARD, SERGE | 1038 | 58% | 22%
POTVIN, DENIS | 1060 | 53% | 21%
LANGWAY, ROD | 994 | 53% | 20%
CHELIOS, CHRIS | 1651 | 57% | 17%
MATVICHUK, RICHARD | 796 | 51% | 17%
HARPER, TERRY | 795 | 53% | 14%
STEVENS, SCOTT | 1635 | 56% | 14%
BOURQUE, RAY | 1612 | 58% | 14%
MITCHELL, WILLIE | 861 | 55% | 13%
WHITE, BILL | 604 | 65% | 13%
HATCHER, DERIAN | 1045 | 55% | 13%
HAMHUIS, DAN | 814 | 54% | 12%
KEITH, DUNCAN | 766 | 50% | 12%
CHARA, ZDENO | 1195 | 55% | 10%
PRONGER, CHRIS | 1167 | 54% | 9%
HATCHER, KEVIN | 1157 | 51% | 9%
SCUDERI, ROB | 720 | 57% | 9%
LUDWIG, CRAIG | 1256 | 52% | 7%
Savard’s usage is 3rd highest on this chart (after Orr and White), and his team results are 7th best. He’s 9th in GP on this list, with only Lidstrom, Potvin and Chelios near the top and over 1000 games. But Savard was used more than Lidstrom and Potvin, and his team results were a good deal better than Chelios’. All things considered, he may be the best PK defenseman of all-time.
