The Hockey Legacy of Rick Middleton
Born December 4, 1953, in Toronto, Rick Middleton’s love for hockey ignited on frozen ponds, where he honed the stickhandling wizardry that would later baffle NHL goalies. Drafted 14th overall by the Rangers in 1973, his early career was a slow burn—until a 1976 trade to Boston unleashed his full potential. Bruins fans still reminisce about his first hat trick against the Flyers, where he deked past Bill Barber like a ghost, a preview of the artistry to come.
Middleton’s peak in the early '80s was a symphony of skill. In the 1981 playoffs, he torched the Penguins with a 5-goal game, a feat matched only by legends like Maurice Richard. His chemistry with center Barry Pederson was telepathic; their 'Lunch Pail AC' line outworked and outsmarted every opponent. One unforgettable night in 1982, Middleton undressed Tomas Vokoun’s predecessor with a between-the-legs pass to Craig MacTavish, a play so audacious it left the Garden crowd breathless.
Post-retirement, Middleton’s influence endured as a Bruins ambassador and youth hockey advocate. His 1984 Lady Byng Trophy—awarded for skill and sportsmanship—epitomized his grace under pressure. Today, his #16 hangs in Boston’s rafters, a testament to a career built on finesse, not force.
- The Spin-O-Rama Heard ‘Round the World: 1983 vs. Quebec, Middleton’s 360-degree goal broke the internet before the internet existed.
- 1,000-Point Milestone: Reached in 1988 with a backhand saucer pass only Adam Oates could’ve dreamed up.
- 1981 Smythe Contender: His 19 playoff points nearly willed the Bruins past the dynastic Islanders.
- King of the Shootout: Pre-dating NHL shootouts, Middleton dominated ‘breakaway contests’ in team practices.
- The Ultimate Teammate: Once stayed late to teach a young Cam Neely the art of the one-timer.
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