R. M. (Bob) Gainey
Robert Michael Gainey was a first-round draft choice of Montreal Canadiens in 1973 and he played 16 outstanding seasons for them in the NHL. Bob was an inspirational leader on five Stanley Cup-winning teams. He was team captain eight seasons and conducted himself with class, both on and off the ice.
Born in Peterborough, Gainey played through the minor system to the Jr. A Petes prior to turning pro. He established himself as the top defensive forward in the game — even the Soviets called him the best player in the world — and won the Selke Trophy the first four seasons it was presented to the “forward who best excels in the defensive aspects of the game.” Bob also played in four NHL All-Star games and won the Smythe Trophy as MVP of the 1979 Stanley Cup playoffs.
Although a defensive specialist, Gainey scored 239 career goals and earned 501 points in 1,160 NHL games, adding another 73 points in 151 playoff games. He went on to coach one season in France before returning to coach the NHL Minnesota Stars.
Year Inducted:
1992
Status:
Active
Robert Michael Gainey was a first-round draft choice of Montreal Canadiens in 1973 and he played 16 outstanding seasons for them in the NHL. Bob was an inspirational leader on five Stanley Cup-winning teams. He was team captain eight seasons and conducted himself with class, both on and off the ice.
Born in Peterborough, Gainey played through the minor system to the Jr. A Petes prior to turning pro. He established himself as the top defensive forward in the game — even the Soviets called him the best player in the world — and won the Selke Trophy the first four seasons it was presented to the “forward who best excels in the defensive aspects of the game.” Bob also played in four NHL All-Star games and won the Smythe Trophy as MVP of the 1979 Stanley Cup playoffs.
Although a defensive specialist, Gainey scored 239 career goals and earned 501 points in 1,160 NHL games, adding another 73 points in 151 playoff games. He went on to coach one season in France before returning to coach the NHL Minnesota Stars.