chooch*
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Scott Stevens got a lot of ink on the no name devils defence and was considered a clutch playoff performer during their frequent Cup runs. Other than that he was largely eclipsed during a long 80's90's career. I'd put him in the top 10 at his position duiring his prime but he didnt really stand out internationally or win major trophies during the regular season. He was a star but not a superstar and the press really built him up during the playoffs on the basis of essentially illegal hits on a couple of notable players. Personaly I never liked his headhunting style (not that he was the only one back then). And I found it hypocritical the way he shook his head after levelling Lindros with that shot to the head in the playoffs as if he was sorry he had to do it but had no choice. He had a choice not to do that.
If Stevens' name is bandied about on the basis of that kind of career for the HHoF - why not Claude Lemieux?
He was dynamite during the playoffs during several long Cup runs for the Habs and Devils winning the Conn Smythe. He was a key key player even as a rookie in 86 when "Roy won the Cup for the Habs". He also was a key player internationally when asked and the Soviets were absolutely delighted when he got hurt in Rendez Vous 87 (?).
His regular seasons were average - he was likely top 10 at his position for the majority of his long 80's 90's career. He also got a lot of ink for his play during the playoffs for essentially the same thing that Stevens was doing but the slant on him by the press was negative at least in english Canada. However, when the chips were down, you'd want him on your team no doubt.
If Stevens goes to the Hall so should Claude.
If Stevens' name is bandied about on the basis of that kind of career for the HHoF - why not Claude Lemieux?
He was dynamite during the playoffs during several long Cup runs for the Habs and Devils winning the Conn Smythe. He was a key key player even as a rookie in 86 when "Roy won the Cup for the Habs". He also was a key player internationally when asked and the Soviets were absolutely delighted when he got hurt in Rendez Vous 87 (?).
His regular seasons were average - he was likely top 10 at his position for the majority of his long 80's 90's career. He also got a lot of ink for his play during the playoffs for essentially the same thing that Stevens was doing but the slant on him by the press was negative at least in english Canada. However, when the chips were down, you'd want him on your team no doubt.
If Stevens goes to the Hall so should Claude.