canucks4ever
Registered User
- Mar 4, 2008
- 3,997
- 67
It is pretty close but I give the nod to Oates. He was dominant for a longer time than was Lafontaine.
I don'think Oates was ever dominant, but his longevity was certainly impressive. Oates was very good for a long time, but Lafontaine easily had the better prime. This question depends on what you value most. Lafontaine was more likely to win you a cup while Oates was more likely to be a contributor to other elite players.
Oates finished top 3 in scoring 3 times and top 3 in assists 7 times. I also have him as the third greatest playmaker of all time. That is dominant.
Pat Lafontaine finished top 3 in scoring once and top 3 in assists once. Neither man was top 3 in goal scoring.
Oates had a better peak and was great for a longer time. I think preferring Lafontaine is more of a style choice.