Lindros is one of my favorite players of all time. There was just something magical about him when you're 10 years old and you see this guy in weekly recaps (only way you could see NHL in Finland early 90's without satellite TV etc.) doing it all, scoring goals, tackling players like no other. His career as a whole could have been magnificent without those health issues and it is a shame that it went that way.
You're telling me Finland didn't have cable tv in the 90's, America had it in the 70's... For a rich industrialized country you guys were sure behind... Bet that all changed by the end of the 90's with the advent of the internet and mobile phones, though!
Exactly. I dont get how that doesn't make him an obvious first ballot HOFer. He was a star player for *9 straight years* in the league. Longevity is overrated. I'm tired of everyone just looking at total stats for everything. I used to think the HOF was about the *BEST* PLAYERS but really it's about the players with the story book careers. Now all these GOOD players make the HOF because they scored 20 goals a year for 600 years straight. Who cares?? A players *prime* is what matters the most.
@@integrity101 Lmao right, dude got 20 goals for like 20 years. He's consistent! I've always been about peaks and Primes. Who was this player when he was his absolute best
@Integrity101 Agree 1000% dude. I'm way more of a "prime" guy than a "longevity" guy. A player who was great for 10 years is above a player who was just good or decent for 20 years.
The day Lindros left the Flyers - after 8 seasons and over 500 games played - he was 5th all-time in points-per-game behind Gretzky, Lemieux, Bossy, and Orr.
I'd take Messier any day you win with Messier! The most complete great player since Howe and he lasted longer than Eric but not into his 50's like Howe- who was an all star in his final season in the NHL!
While his parents probably interfered too much. The Flyers organization in the 90s, especially Bobby Clarke treated their star player Eric Lindros pretty damn horrible, that whole collapsed lung episode and then you had the next season when he complained about the doctors incorrectly diagnosing a Grade 2 concussion and ripping the captaincy from him... on live TV. They had cameras in the locker room sewing the "C" on Eric Desjardins' jersey. The draft stuff is pretty interesting with hindsight too. Eric and his family being labelled as anti-french because he didn't wanna go to Quebec. He's said recently that he didn't wanna go to any team that had Marcel Aubut as their owner... which today absolutely makes sense and Eric seems to allude to Aubut's misbehaviour was common knowledge even back then. Great player but unfortunately a victim of an age where they didn't take concussions seriously and allowing players like Scott Stevens and Darius Kasparaitis headhunting big names. It's good to see Eric doing a lot of work with concussion and brain science these days, hopefully in the future it will help out the game.
good little read on the Nashville incident. This article had the most accurate detail that ive found that has been backed up by Jones, Eric and others. www.inquirer.com/philly/sports/flyers/philadelphia-flyers-eric-lindros-bitter-rift-concussions-keith-jones-bob-clarke-ed-snider-20000607.html
Tobi B there was a space of time and I would say between '1994 to '98 NHL seasons " not only" was Eric the most dominate hockey player on the planet But his Legion of Doom line was the dominate line in the NHL for a to almost a five year period ! - Unfortunate for Eric his own demise was by the very nature and how reckless he played hockey for those injuries to interrupt his complete potential - Indeed Eric Lindros was a fantastic hockey player and I would draft him number 1 NO MATTER what year of the draft and he can be on my team anytime and anyplace.
I agree with you on most of what u said other than the kasparaitis comment. It was a clean hit. Lindros always skater with his head down. It wasn't a hit to the head. The Stevens hit seemed to be an elbow to the head
@Edward McMullen Go watch that hit. Stevens put his shoulder right through his head. That was dirty. Was hoping someone would of went all Marty McSorley on him. But alas, it wasn't ment to be
Chad Solivais absolutely - Scott Stevens took advantage of Eric Lindros having his head down " it was a predatory hit and it was dirty, Stevens knew exactly what he was because it was game 7 and he took him out. We all know that game 7's everything is on the table and with that being said Eric Lindros also has a responsibility of keeping his head up especially at center ice ! - that was a vicious hit by Scott Stevens IMO.
Eric has said, many times, that it was the owner (Marcel Aubut) that he had a problem with. It wasn't the city or the organization that he said he had a problem with. I think if they had the concussion protocols they have now, Lindros could have played 200 more 'healthy' games and gotten another 250-300 points. He was the best player in the league for SEVERAL seasons. He deserves to be in the HoF.
It's not relevant who he had a problem with. He played a part in almost splitting up Canada, when he as an Ontarian refused to report to a fledgling Quebec team during an unfolding constitutional crisis where the province of Quebec nearly separated from Canada just 4 years later. And there's no way he didn't know that at the time. Lindros' father had this to say: "We've got a referendum possibly coming up. We're going to go through a lot of turmoil. There's going to be a lot of friction before things get better. We're absolutely solid in the position that Eric will not play hockey for the Nordiques. It doesn't make sense for Eric." Eric Lindros may not be a traitor, just an 18 year old kid dragged into much bigger issues. But his father is definitely a traitor.
@@humankirk9196 Quebec ain't splitting from Canada... They have always been the eternal spoiled brat daughter who threatens to run away in order to get their way cause they know they got a mother who will give in to their every whim at the expense and turmoil of the rest of the family- and their siblings...
I remember when he refused to play for my Soo Greyhounds too. Lindros was much larger than most juniors at the time and could plow thru the competition easily so he never learned to skate with his head up. That proved consequential when it came to playing with men.
Im from Sault Ste. Marie... and i run the Hounds fan club. He is still public enemy number 1 here. The old timers chime in with how badly they chirped him (even though they were admitting to chirping a teenager...) still to this day its "Fuck Lindros" every time he gets brought up.
Whenever someone has an absolute passion for something and they express it with stories, explanation and personal opinion, they can interest people who have zero regard for the subject matter. I am not a hockey fan. I watch it sometimes, but have never bothered to fully understand it nor follow even part of a particular season. The Hockey Guy had me riveted. I wanted to know EVERYTHING about Lindros. Best 18 minutes and 44 seconds of my day to this point. :)
As good as he was with the flyer's i think he was even better with the leaf's by then he was fully recovered and matured and was playing out of his mind it's too bad he became susceptible to concussion as a side effect of having too many early in his career which really sidelined him for the second half of his career... But when he was healthy and playing you could see glimpses of the player he was going to become! "Eric Lindros just scratched the surface of his potential early in his career than it was gone..."
similar career like peter forsberg. both played physical style of hockey and it was one of the reasons they could not play as long as they should. their numbers were also very similar both with just over 700 games and close to 900 points.
@@jamesgentry13 says who? I'm not even a fan of either, but wingers are a dime a dozen over a good center. Way more responsibility for centers... not just covering the point, playing corners.. like that even happens anymore.. and out front of the net
Forsberg was a fantastic player. I like him a lot. Lindros in his prime was on pace to be a top 5 scorer of all time. Physically dominated 90’s. Forsberg played for the better team....
Lindros was put in such a bad situation. Flyers didn't care for his health, they wanted blood for what they gave up to get 88. Really a sad story, and is a black eye on the league. Poor guy is a shell of the man he was.
How so? I've seen him do interviews recently, he looks in good health and sharp in his answers... He seems happier now he's retired and can move on with his life and do something else...
Lindros has said in interviews that he did not want to play for Marcel aubut specifically. Also don't think we pretty much ever saw his prime or full potential, Eric stated himself that "after I got hit a few times I wasn't nearly playing to the level I knew I could". I think he never reached what he could be and its sad because he was incredible. Amazing skating. Never missed on a breakaway. A beast.
He was a real super star. Everyone knew: Lindros is not only like a freight train through a wall (the other players) but he also was a nice guy actually. That is why he was & still should be an icon. He was professional and he wanted to be the best and he was the best player when he was completely on fire. The only bad thing to say about Lindros is that he was really tall and therefore had his head down too much and walked in a few heavy hits. But otherwise still to this day he probably was the player with the mix of absolute most punch, anger & power. (incredible force)
Let's talk about Brett Hull, I need to hear his story, all the way up to the ending where he gets hammered for every stanley cup game and leads the parade at a 3.5% BAC
what I remember about his career is when he scored the game winning goal against Buffalo with his skates clearly in the crease but nobody seemed to care....except Hasek.
Growing up and just hearing the stories about lindros and how dominant he was I’ve always been really interested in him as a player. Thanks for the awesome analysis of lindros
My memory of watching Lindros play in Toronto was he was finding his top form again and was on a piling up points streak when his wrist was shattered by a viscous slash. Leaf ownership erroneously gave up on him. Lindros, off ice actions aside, is undoubtedly an NHL legendary player.
Man, if that Rangers trade went through and they received either Beezer or Richter, the Avalanche might not have had need to trade for Roy, thereby possibly changing the whole course of their future.
With their team i think they would win with any big game goalie... Beezer and Richter were big game goalies who demonstrated so with great cup runs in their careers... Roy is the ultimate clutch goaltender and his 2001 playoff performance is as good as i've seen for a goaltender ever... But '96 was a different story he played as good as he had to but he didn't have to become St Patrick to help win it for the AVS- i think both Richter and Beezer had greater performances in playoff runs in their career than Roy did in 96 so i believe the Avs were good enough to win that one with either of those 3 stellar clutch goaltenders... Beezer had a .95+ save percentage in 96 with the meddling Panthers up until he met Roy and that stacked Av's team... If he had a real championship team like the Avs i don't see him gassing out and losing like he did taking 50 shots a game backstopping a expansion draft team without a scorer nor star in front of him...
Can you please do the career of your friend Michael Buble, who shall remain nameless? But seriously, love your work Shannon! Thanks for keeping me sane during this isolation. Take care!
Lindros was guest instructor at my hockey camp in either 95 or 96 in Guelph Ontario. He was awesome, he would get on one knee at center ice and ask us which Post to hit with a slap shot and he would hit it LOL
Horrible. Im a fan of all of them. Patty lala one hurt the most for me as a sabres fan. Wonder if he could have been the difference in the 99 cup final. Pronger was a freak. What d man wins the Hart. Unreal. Savard one sucked too. He should have been playing in their cup run. Primeau was a man among boys.
@@andyc9979 the answer is absolutely yes. LalalalalalalalalalalalalaFontaine would have for sure made a difference in that cup run. I was only 8 but I still remember watching that game 6 with my dad in our living room. That was heartbreaking.
I was saying that back in high-school (around 2011 I think) when Crosby had a major concussion that he already had a few and he could risk not just his career, but health if he took another one like that and compared him directly to Lindros. Luckily for Crosby that has not happened, but we don't know as I believe to this day that Crosby's career will be cut short if he takes another nasty blow to his head. I'd hate to see if happen, but concussions are not anything to joke about.
Ironic as I heard that Eric banged a fellow Flyers wife who ended up getting traded. I heard this from my roommate in University who played with Eric in Oshawa so it is on good authority. I won’t name the Flyer guy that left.
@@jasonsmith5226 not quite but the real story is arguably worse. I forgot where but marcel abute was at an event where the lindros family was also at and he said some pretty sexist and explicit stuff about lindroses mom while she was in earshot. Keep in mind he said this in French because he thought they didn’t speak it. Needless to say he was wrong
If Lindros had played for Quebec , you'd be looking at a team including: Sakic Lindros Sundin Nolan Kamensky Kovalenko Rucinsky Young Another effect (not as speculative): Before the Red Wings' Russian Five there could have been the Nordiques' Russian Five: Kamensky - Bykov - Khomutov, Gusarov - Tatarinov!!…..hahahah
I'd take Forsberg over Lindros 1 for 1 trade... Nords got a team for Lindros and it made their dynasty in years to come when they moved to Colorado... Those five Russians you named are to the Russian Five, what Jack Black is to Chris Farley...
I hated Lindros in the 90's, probably because he was a Flyer. But do you know what I hated more? I hate that his career was cut short. He was a great villain for me in the 90's. I miss hating him and the rest of the Legion of Doom.
It was easy to hate him. He ran a lot of guys with hits that were borderline then and suspension worthy now. Back in the 90’s I was about 5’ nothing and 100lb soaking wet so it was easy to dislike that giant dude.
Hart trophy and most dominant physical force ever in the game. Obvious hall of famer. If he didn't have the injuries he would be the obvious GOAT power forward.
Would you really take Eric as your power forward over Keith? I'd make that trade! Eric was great when he was younger but was made of glass and got concussed and was already on his way out few seasons into the league... Also he was selfish... Keith was a way better captain for the Fliers and a better role model for the kids as well... And Keith's playoff run with the flyer's was as dominant a playoff performance i've ever seen from a forward...
Lindros played in the clutch and grab era of the neutral zone trap and was a clear generational talent. He would be on a level with Ovechkin and Malkin if he played with today's officiating. The only blemish on his career is not winning a cup which not many teams could do during that time with Detroit, NJ and Colorado dominating during that period.
Those 3 teams you mentioned actually only amounted to 8 cups between each other... Plenty of other teams got one including Dallas and two for the Penguins also Canadiens (ROY!!!) Rangers and Tampa Bay and Edmonton started the 90's without the great one and Coffey... So there was plenty of parity back then... And in the end Av's only one won in the 90's and another one in 2001- with Ray and 7 other Hof'ers- and Wing's are the only one to win two in a row in the clutch and grab era then one more in 2002 with a stacked team. Devil's actually won as many as Wings with 3 to Av's two and Dallas the Rodney Dangerfield of 90's NHL teams won one in '99 and got to the finals to be defeated by the Devils in '00! It goes to show if you have 2 top 10 centers and a cornerstone blueliner and depth and a big game goalie then you can give any team a run for it's money- even the Red Army!
Lilla Sked Imagine Lindros and Forsberg on the Flyers. The Flyers didn’t want to throw in Brind’amour (because Forsberg was still years away from coming to the NHL) to Quebec.
Both Sakic and Sundin were both centers and although Sundin would eventually go to Toronto and the Nords would eventually get Forsberg due to the Lindros trade, in reality it made no sense that the Nords would still draft Lindros especially since the Nords have two 100-point centers in Sakic and Sundin despite losing seasons between 1990 ad 1994. Eitehr way, Lindros had every right not to stay in Quebec not because of the language issues and the city, but because of the owner, plus consider the factor of already having two great centers in Sakic and Sundin and drafting Lindros made absolutely no sense. If Lindros had been drafted in QUE, would've he been put on QUE's third line behind Sakic and Sundin. I can understand why people don't like Lindros (rivalry between the Flyers and NYR and NJ, too physical, too sucessful during his time in PHL, better scorer and playmaker, etc.), but at the time QUE already had two great centers and getting another center as the number one draft pick made absolutely no sense and if I were Sakic or Sundin, I would be more concerned about my job security with the team and both had every right to be concerned anyway ans when Sakic said he didn't care about the Lindros draft, he was really referring to his job security, not Lindros the man.
The best 18-year old hockey player I've ever seen play. No other player at his age could've made the '91 Canada Cup team and been one of their best players.
The most physically dominant player of his era. When he was on, he could be unstoppable. His style of play wore him down and shortened his career. His relationship with the Flyers has long been repaired. He was just named a team ambassador last week.
It's hard to describe to people who never saw him play just how dominant he was. It was like a man amongst boys, just physically manhandling opposing players. Then you allied that to his incredible skill level....
As a Flyers season ticket holder during Lindros tenure, it was a series of ups and downs. After he won the MVP in 1995, I thought we would win multiple Cups as he was the perfect transition from the Gretzky/Lemieux era. From the minute the RedWings swept us in the ‘97 Finals it slowly went downhill. People talk about the Stevens hit in 2000, but the real turning point was the Kasparitis hit in March ‘98 that gave him his first concussion. I honestly don’t think he was the same player after that. We lost in the first round in ‘98, he got the collapsed lung and missed the ‘99 playoffs. Got the concussion and missed most of ‘00 playoffs until the Stevens hit in Game 7 (Let me tell you that place was dead silent for the rest of the game). He sat out all of 00-01 as Clarke would not trade him and then he was shipped to the Rangers before 01-02 season, I love Lindros and cherish that era being at every game. But his career is a big ‘what if’ and I never felt he should have been inducted into the Hall of Fame.
You should have remained a season ticket holder you would have made a fortune now a days and it's still climbing those ticket prices, somehow exceeding even inflation these days...
as bad as the decision by Quebec to ignore Eric sounded, it got them Forsberg (ironically similar career) and other pieces which leads to 1995-96 being ready when Patrick Roy is traded to them to win, but also this is the man that makes the hall of fame a debate every year, him, Forsberg, Kariya and to a lesser extent Pavel Bure (he at least had 2 rocket richard trophies and 60+ goal seasons)
When I grew up, I could never see the hype around Eric Lindros. And the value he was pu at even less. He was IMO never anything near Mario Lemieux or Wayne Gretzky. In my opinion, players like Jaromir Jagr, Teemu Selanne, Mats Sundin, Pavel Bure etc-etc was early on much-much more potential rich and they near exploded on to the scene both in the NHL and on International ice. Heck in the "Lindros Trade saga", only Peter Forsberg. ONLY Forsberg proved early on was worth that massive trade. And after 1997 I never felt he could lead to a cup despite he was still young and in his prime.
It's a shame that injuries wiped out his tenure in Toronto. He played terrific to begin the 2005-06 season, shouldering the bulk off the offence when Mats Sundin went down for 10 or so games to begin that season. Not sure if the Leafs would have made the playoffs still that season with a healthy Eric Lindros, but it looked as he was going to be a solid contributor had the injuries had not occured.
Good one, Shannon! Eric was a polarizing player. It seemed everybody had a strong view of him either way back in the day. You can't deny that he was a force on the ice in his prime. The guy was a wrecking ball that could score and throw punches in bunches. He could pretty much single handedly take control of a game, set the tone and impose his will. It's a shame that we as fans were robbed of more healthy playing years due to concussions, but not an unfamiliar situation.
Hmm. Let’s get a career video of everyone’s favorite player: Claude Lemieux. The playoff performances, the suspensions, the Cup rings, the whole nine yards.
I really wish things turned out different. 97 was the Flyer's year but they just happened to run into a really great Detroit team that year. Philly is due to win another Cup soon. 45 year drought needs to end.
If I remember correctly, there was also some discussion about which offer came to Quebec first? Something about the time that was on the fax when it was printed on the fax machine. They accepted the Flyers offer then looked at the Rangers offer and said "Oops"
A detail that always seems to get lost is Forsberg only played 708 career NHL games where Eric played 760 so very hard to say that things would turned out much different. Forsberg gets to play with: Sundin, Sakic and Owen Nolan Lindros got: Recchi, Brind'amour and Kevin Dineen.
Lindros had this kind of problem with the OHL draft as well. After tearing up in junior B, he was selected by the Soo Greyhounds, despite warnings that he would not play there. This time his family was worried that the long road trips would have an affect on his education. He was eventually traded to the Oshawa Generals, where it worked out for a while there. Of course, the rest is already mentioned in the video in regards of what happened in the NHL.
The feud between him and Scott Stevens was worth the price of admission...was at a couple of those games in Philly when they had more than one fight per game...
Normally I agree with you Shannon but not this time. Yes I agree that Quebec chose him even after he said he would not play there. However, who was he to dictate where he plays? He could have easily flopped. See Alexandre Daigle. He did have a solid career even though he was hampered by concussions, but I still say a player out of juniors should not dictate where to play. If that is the case, why do we have a draft?
Lindros did not want to play for Marcel Aubut based on some meeting where Aubut had made comments about his family. He has said that years later. In the 1997 Finals Lindros only had one goal. It came in the last minute in Game 4 where it basically didn’t mean anything. He’s had an interesting career.
Aubut didn't know they could speak french and made a comment about Lindros''s mom smelling worse than a Quebecois hooker in heat... And Eric and his father took offense to that...
The biggest winner of Eric Lindros's career was Quebec Nordiques/Colorado Avalanche. Both or the '92 trade deals were awesome and offered the organization way more than even a fully healthy Lindros ever could have done. I wonder who were responsible of those two offers at '92. Who were those people who were ready to give so much for Lindros. Of course no one could know beforehand Forsberg would develop to a legend and Thibault would be something good enough to be able to trade for Roy but still. Even that Rangers trade would have probably worked aswell. A good starting goalie with Richter or Vanbiesbrouck(both Cup finalists atleast) and 3 high quality forwards. Amonte became a several time 40+ goal scorer in the horrible Blackhawks, Kovalev had some high quality seasons aswell and Nemchinov was also a good 2-3 line center.
I liked Lindros. Really what was there not to like. Flyers over paid for him but it wasn't my money. The only problem he really had was playing that hard physical game. Unless you're chemically enhanced you don't last long playing that way in any sport. I'm happy he is back in the Flyers family. He belongs here.
Also it is one of the great mysteries of my life why no teammate of Lindros went after Stevens for that hit. I remember watching that game with great anticipation of someone going after Stevens to no avail. That really pissed me off. That was the day the bullies died for me. Where were his teammates?? Really a sad day as a Flyers fan.
Michael Zampelli Keith Jones talked about that game and you have to read between the lines. But I think you answered your own question. I think most of the team (with the exception of Leclair) resented him at that point. I honestly don’t think they wanted him to come back in that series and screw up the team chemistry.
Messier and Lundros played for Team Canada in I think it was the Canada Cup back in the 90s. I think Gretzky was either hurt or just that Messier and Lindros were on the ice at the same time. They scored a fantastic goal and so play by play man Gary Thorne said, 88 and 11 really does add up to 99.
One of the most dominating players in NHL history at his peek. A totally monster ! 😂😂 His points per game average is 17 th best with players at least 600 games. Skillwise belongs to HHOF. Same case with Pavel Bure
Sorry but it wasn't a "Quebec thing" it was a Marcel Aubut thing. Pierre Page made the trade to Philly but Aubut went on his own and talked to the Rangers and because the Rangers offered 20 million Aubut the snake that he is wanted that offer. The Flyers were awarded the trade because it was finalized first and it was actually investigated.
@Charles Szasz Well Lindros has stated the main reason he wouldn't play for the Nordiques was because of Aubut. I have heard Aubut either sexual harassed or said something that offended Lindros mother. I really don't like Lindros but Aubut is a SOB.
I actually feel pretty sorry for Lindros. Good God, what a fantastic player he was. Just a shitty combination of circumstances set about to screw him over.
I remember at the time that Rangers package(which also had Doug Weight in it) seemed so much better than the Flyers package. Forsberg was not expected to become as good as he did.
At least it's in the states and in NY state so you got a market to capitalize... Sakic was barely known and was a 100 point scorer multiple times... Quebec had no chance keeping a team outside of Montreal... They don't even speak the right language and unlike Montreal it has no money... Just snooty politicians and beastly Quebecois chicks...
great video Shannon, you should make a video about either your favourite current or all-time players to watch, think that could be kinda interesting coming from somebody who watches all but every game they can!
What a great play and even though the team treated him badly, the fans adored him and still do and the feeling is mutual. Eric has never said a cross word about the fans. That said, I often wonder how things would have played out had Eric gone to Quebec and Forsberg stayed in Philly.
He was a great player for awhile, one of the best power forwards in the game but he didn't live up to his potential and lost too many games and even an entire season. Mario lost a lot of games and a season as well but he was still playing at an All-Star level when he returned, Eric didn't. I don't think he belongs in the HoF.
Love the video. Though I wasn't watching hockey back then I wish I was. As a French Canadian, he has been discussed a lot by the media over here and defended by those who erroneously believe that he was anti French. Nothing could be further from the truth. I did watch very closely his first official in depth interview on radio Canada's most successful talk show tout le monde en parle a few years ago and absolutely loved Eric lindros. Such a good person. Yes, the mismanagement is probably a reason but it's not the only reason. In a slip of the tongue he did accidentally allude to the real reason which he tried to clean up the next day and was vigorously denied but I do suspect that there actually was a kernel of truth there and that was in fact the main reason. But the past is the past and I suspect that very few die hard nordiques fans are still bitter about this.
It was just a year after the Brockville incident involving the desecration of Quebec's flag. Separatists were quick to use Brockville and Lindros as arguments for separation. And Lindros should have known this. Also, Lindros' father explicitly said the refusal had to do with politics. Lindros may not have felt that way at the time, but his parents certainly did.
I attended University of Waterloo in Ontario in late 80's and early 90's, with our tearm playing against Lindros of the Oshawa Generals. Some articles came up in the University student newspaper at how obnoxious Lindros was with players of other college teams: in particular he was mocking french Canadian players. Whereas he may not have liked Aubut of the Nordiques, many players are not all that enchanted with their team owners or management, yet act professionally. Lindros showed no respect for french Canadians, and appeared to have a sense of entitlement in not being cooperative and professional, as when he (and family) refused to report and play for the Sault Ste-Marie Greyhounds (where Gretzky played) in Ontario Junior A. Although he had a good amount of talent, he only performed well for a few years; and very little in playoffs; having a big ego and being a disruptive force just like PK Subban; the case is not in favor of him getting the accolade of a Hall of Famer.
I was so excited that Lindros was going to The Nords.Lindros and Sakic!!!But then things did not happen,it was like when John Elway refused to play for the Colts(nfl).My teams just cant win,but the Lindros issues coulda been a disaster in Quebec.
Geoff Courtnall also suffered a shortened career due to concussions. Although not the level of a Lindross, he's my all time favorite player. He did everything well regardless of the style/era he was playing in.
Lindros was the guy you created in NHL career mode but it ultimately shortened his career because of his psychically demanding style. The body can only take so much. Great player but definitely far too short a career. Looking at the alternate possible future outcomes from the Rangers trade perspective. Do they get Messier? Keenan? Can Vanbiesbrouck win the cup? Could we be in 2022 listening to 1940 chants?
Name me a player who had the skills, speed, size and ferocity of Lindros. I don't think you can. Clarke really screwed up with him and I no longer esteem Mr. Clarke (not Bobby anymore.) Such a shame, he had it all.
He's no Gordie Howe but no player is cause they don't seem to be built to last like the good old timer's were... Gordie was as tough and complete an all-around player the NHL has ever seen and no one was greater for longer than Mr Hockey... There will never be another Gordie Howe!
At the time the trade probably looked ok. Forsberg was just undervalued. That is really where the trade failed, because he was included. I remember the Forsberg vs Lindros rivalry back then. Interestingly, Lindros have swedish ancestry. Here in Sweden, most ppl were Forsberg fans. I was one of the Lindros fans. But I remember them being considered equals in the 90's. Then Lindros's career just went south. Because I'm not from NA and because I was so young at the time, I never really grasped how serious it was. I just thought it was bad luck and concussion related, but hearing these stories, I really feel sorry for him. I think he really deserved better and these days I know that the league would have stepped in to protect him. There were probably players who were ordered to bang him up, the dirtier the better. That's when you know the league have lost it. And they let it go on for so long. This is supposed to be for fun. Those who try to injury other players should be disciplined severely. You can't say that they didn't know better, because there were clear signs of concussion related problems. They should have implemented the current protocols and stricter rules sooner. I have gotten the impression that Lindros was kind of rejected by the canadian hockey establishment, because of what he did at the draft, and that this was the reason why they allowed this to happen. They allowed their generational talent to be sacrificed. Had it been a "good boy" like Crosby, then I think the experts would have stepped in and fixed the issue sooner. This is really one of the darkest periods in NHL history, and there were many other victims.
Love lundros I think a video on the rise and fall of the IHL would be an interesting watch I think in the 90's most of the best minor league talent came out of the IHL instead of the AHL and there games were very competitive since they also had some teams just to compete without an NHL affiliated talent on there rosters
I'm a little surprised the Rangers considered gambling away significant pieces of their core to join the Lindros sweepstakes considering they just come off a President Trophy season and, as it turned out, were close to winning the cup. I agree the franchise, eventually going to Colorado, would not have won the cup in 1996 but I bet the Rangers would not have won the cup in 1994 if they acquired Lindros.
Curse of being the biggest guy on ice in youth and college hockey? Never had to look up, because noone ever tried to hit the big brick wall coming full steam ahead.
I don't think Quebec/Colorado wins the cup without that Lindros Trade I'm not completely convinced the Flyers make that Stanley Cup Finals Run without that Lindros Trade.
@@jayrock248 What are your criteria? All four are well known for their physical play. Not simply being able to play physical, but to actively seek it out.
Take the 3 best forwards of all time, Howe, Gretzky, and Lemieux. Imagine a 7 game series. Put all the players in the same era. Wide open hockey, fast and loose. Or... Clutch and grab, neutral zone trap era. Tight and physical. Now..... Pick any 1 you like of the 3 at full health at the top of their game. Goalies equal....officiating not favoring any player..... respective teams equal Lemieux would be the only player in NHL history I'd see having any chance. Lindros was too skilled, too big, too strong, and at his best, too mean for any other player to contend with. He was the 3rd highest scorer in league history per game before Injury derailed him. And he didnt play in an era of free wheeling and open spaces as the others did. He didnt play against small goalies with small pads. Lindros MADE his space physically with players draped all over him, holding on for fear life. Multiple players stacked on each and every dump in, grabbing him to slow him down. They changed the rules and made this tactic LEGAL due to HIM. Upon his retirement they reinstated obstruction interference. Back to the way it was for the other 3. It's Lindros. And it's not even a close second.
![Kumamoto Masters Japan 2024 | Gregoria Mariska Tunjung (INA) [5] vs. Akane Yamaguchi (JPN) [2] | F](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/EIjZybhsWqA/mqdefault.jpg)
Lindros is one of my favorite players of all time. There was just something magical about him when you're 10 years old and you see this guy in weekly recaps (only way you could see NHL in Finland early 90's without satellite TV etc.) doing it all, scoring goals, tackling players like no other. His career as a whole could have been magnificent without those health issues and it is a shame that it went that way.
You're telling me Finland didn't have cable tv in the 90's, America had it in the 70's... For a rich industrialized country you guys were sure behind... Bet that all changed by the end of the 90's with the advent of the internet and mobile phones, though!
Before his concussions he was only behind Gretzky and Lemieux for PPG. Pretty insane.
Exactly. I dont get how that doesn't make him an obvious first ballot HOFer. He was a star player for *9 straight years* in the league.
Longevity is overrated. I'm tired of everyone just looking at total stats for everything. I used to think the HOF was about the *BEST* PLAYERS but really it's about the players with the story book careers. Now all these GOOD players make the HOF because they scored 20 goals a year for 600 years straight. Who cares?? A players *prime* is what matters the most.
@@integrity101
Lmao right, dude got 20 goals for like 20 years. He's consistent! I've always been about peaks and Primes. Who was this player when he was his absolute best
Don't forger Mike Bossy and Bobby Orr!
@Integrity101 Agree 1000% dude. I'm way more of a "prime" guy than a "longevity" guy. A player who was great for 10 years is above a player who was just good or decent for 20 years.
@@integrity101 Yes. It is the quality. Not the quantity.
The day Lindros left the Flyers - after 8 seasons and over 500 games played - he was 5th all-time in points-per-game behind Gretzky, Lemieux, Bossy, and Orr.
I'd take Messier any day you win with Messier! The most complete great player since Howe and he lasted longer than Eric but not into his 50's like Howe- who was an all star in his final season in the NHL!
While his parents probably interfered too much. The Flyers organization in the 90s, especially Bobby Clarke treated their star player Eric Lindros pretty damn horrible, that whole collapsed lung episode and then you had the next season when he complained about the doctors incorrectly diagnosing a Grade 2 concussion and ripping the captaincy from him... on live TV. They had cameras in the locker room sewing the "C" on Eric Desjardins' jersey.
The draft stuff is pretty interesting with hindsight too. Eric and his family being labelled as anti-french because he didn't wanna go to Quebec. He's said recently that he didn't wanna go to any team that had Marcel Aubut as their owner... which today absolutely makes sense and Eric seems to allude to Aubut's misbehaviour was common knowledge even back then.
Great player but unfortunately a victim of an age where they didn't take concussions seriously and allowing players like Scott Stevens and Darius Kasparaitis headhunting big names. It's good to see Eric doing a lot of work with concussion and brain science these days, hopefully in the future it will help out the game.
good little read on the Nashville incident. This article had the most accurate detail that ive found that has been backed up by Jones, Eric and others.
www.inquirer.com/philly/sports/flyers/philadelphia-flyers-eric-lindros-bitter-rift-concussions-keith-jones-bob-clarke-ed-snider-20000607.html
Tobi B there was a space of time and I would say between '1994 to '98 NHL seasons " not only" was Eric the most dominate hockey player on the planet But his Legion of Doom line was the dominate line in the NHL for a to almost a five year period ! - Unfortunate for Eric his own demise was by the very nature and how reckless he played hockey for those injuries to interrupt his complete potential - Indeed Eric Lindros was a fantastic hockey player and I would draft him number 1 NO MATTER what year of the draft and he can be on my team anytime and anyplace.
I agree with you on most of what u said other than the kasparaitis comment. It was a clean hit. Lindros always skater with his head down. It wasn't a hit to the head. The Stevens hit seemed to be an elbow to the head
@Edward McMullen Go watch that hit. Stevens put his shoulder right through his head. That was dirty. Was hoping someone would of went all Marty McSorley on him. But alas, it wasn't ment to be
Chad Solivais absolutely - Scott Stevens took advantage of Eric Lindros having his head down " it was a predatory hit and it was dirty, Stevens knew exactly what he was because it was game 7 and he took him out. We all know that game 7's everything is on the table and with that being said Eric Lindros also has a responsibility of keeping his head up especially at center ice ! - that was a vicious hit by Scott Stevens IMO.
Eric has said, many times, that it was the owner (Marcel Aubut) that he had a problem with. It wasn't the city or the organization that he said he had a problem with. I think if they had the concussion protocols they have now, Lindros could have played 200 more 'healthy' games and gotten another 250-300 points. He was the best player in the league for SEVERAL seasons. He deserves to be in the HoF.
Patrick Murphy, at least someone (you) finally got it.
It's not relevant who he had a problem with. He played a part in almost splitting up Canada, when he as an Ontarian refused to report to a fledgling Quebec team during an unfolding constitutional crisis where the province of Quebec nearly separated from Canada just 4 years later.
And there's no way he didn't know that at the time. Lindros' father had this to say: "We've got a referendum possibly coming up. We're going to go through a lot of turmoil. There's going to be a lot of friction before things get better. We're absolutely solid in the position that Eric will not play hockey for the Nordiques. It doesn't make sense for Eric."
Eric Lindros may not be a traitor, just an 18 year old kid dragged into much bigger issues. But his father is definitely a traitor.
@@humankirk9196 Quebec ain't splitting from Canada... They have always been the eternal spoiled brat daughter who threatens to run away in order to get their way cause they know they got a mother who will give in to their every whim at the expense and turmoil of the rest of the family- and their siblings...
I remember when he refused to play for my Soo Greyhounds too. Lindros was much larger than most juniors at the time and could plow thru the competition easily so he never learned to skate with his head up. That proved consequential when it came to playing with men.
His ego was so big.
lol yes!!!!!!!
Im from Sault Ste. Marie... and i run the Hounds fan club. He is still public enemy number 1 here. The old timers chime in with how badly they chirped him (even though they were admitting to chirping a teenager...) still to this day its "Fuck Lindros" every time he gets brought up.
Being from Quebec, my familly were Quebec Nordic fans, Can say there's not much love for him around me neither.
He was a ‘man among boys’ off the ice too which is why he kept getting his way until he was in the NHL and Clarke stood up to him.
thank you so much for doing this....as a kid this guy was and is still my favorite Flyer of all time...he is the reason I love the sport.
Eric Lindros Was The Reason I Became a Flyers Fan in 1995 When I Was a Kid!
Whenever someone has an absolute passion for something and they express it with stories, explanation and personal opinion, they can interest people who have zero regard for the subject matter.
I am not a hockey fan. I watch it sometimes, but have never bothered to fully understand it nor follow even part of a particular season. The Hockey Guy had me riveted. I wanted to know EVERYTHING about Lindros.
Best 18 minutes and 44 seconds of my day to this point. :)
the big E was something to behold
I Loved Eric Lindros Big Time When He Played in Philadelphia Which was Why I Became a Flyers Fan in 1995!
As good as he was with the flyer's i think he was even better with the leaf's by then he was fully recovered and matured and was playing out of his mind it's too bad he became susceptible to concussion as a side effect of having too many early in his career which really sidelined him for the second half of his career... But when he was healthy and playing you could see glimpses of the player he was going to become!
"Eric Lindros just scratched the surface of his potential early in his career than it was gone..."
similar career like peter forsberg. both played physical style of hockey and it was one of the reasons they could not play as long as they should. their numbers were also very similar both with just over 700 games and close to 900 points.
Forsberg is better and more respected
@@jamesgentry13 says who? I'm not even a fan of either, but wingers are a dime a dozen over a good center. Way more responsibility for centers... not just covering the point, playing corners.. like that even happens anymore.. and out front of the net
@@anthonysullivan7871 Forsberg was a center..
Forsberg was a fantastic player. I like him a lot. Lindros in his prime was on pace to be a top 5 scorer of all time. Physically dominated 90’s. Forsberg played for the better team....
@@kylekyyy2694
Lmao Lmao when that guy was talkin out his ass I was just smh.
Lindros was put in such a bad situation. Flyers didn't care for his health, they wanted blood for what they gave up to get 88. Really a sad story, and is a black eye on the league. Poor guy is a shell of the man he was.
Lindros and his parents shouldn't have been filthy pricks and just accepted being drafted by Quebec.. no sympathy for him
What do you mean? The guy seems to be doing pretty well
How so? I've seen him do interviews recently, he looks in good health and sharp in his answers... He seems happier now he's retired and can move on with his life and do something else...
I love hockey because of how Lindros played. My favorite flyer
The way he played he got what he deserved
Lindros has said in interviews that he did not want to play for Marcel aubut specifically.
Also don't think we pretty much ever saw his prime or full potential, Eric stated himself that "after I got hit a few times I wasn't nearly playing to the level I knew I could". I think he never reached what he could be and its sad because he was incredible.
Amazing skating.
Never missed on a breakaway.
A beast.
I met him when he was still in junior- he was the nicest guy ever. Huge human being.
He was a real super star. Everyone knew: Lindros is not only like a freight train through a wall (the other players) but he also was a nice guy actually. That is why he was & still should be an icon. He was professional and he wanted to be the best and he was the best player when he was completely on fire. The only bad thing to say about Lindros is that he was really tall and therefore had his head down too much and walked in a few heavy hits. But otherwise still to this day he probably was the player with the mix of absolute most punch, anger & power. (incredible force)
He was only 6'4 that may be big for hockey but that's a midget for basketball where the average size is over six and a half feet...
Let's talk about Brett Hull, I need to hear his story, all the way up to the ending where he gets hammered for every stanley cup game and leads the parade at a 3.5% BAC
Did you catch the bit about double numbers?
If he does a Blue it has to be #44!!!!
3.5% that seems low
Resting Hull face lol
what I remember about his career is when he scored the game winning goal against Buffalo with his skates clearly in the crease but nobody seemed to care....except Hasek.
Growing up and just hearing the stories about lindros and how dominant he was I’ve always been really interested in him as a player. Thanks for the awesome analysis of lindros
“Like Dr. Evil made the trade” that got me hahaha
My memory of watching Lindros play in Toronto was he was finding his top form again and was on a piling up points streak when his wrist was shattered by a viscous slash. Leaf ownership erroneously gave up on him. Lindros, off ice actions aside, is undoubtedly an NHL legendary player.
What did he do off the ice i don't know he had any scandals... He seems like a pretty low-key mild guy in interviews...
Man, if that Rangers trade went through and they received either Beezer or Richter, the Avalanche might not have had need to trade for Roy, thereby possibly changing the whole course of their future.
With their team i think they would win with any big game goalie... Beezer and Richter were big game goalies who demonstrated so with great cup runs in their careers... Roy is the ultimate clutch goaltender and his 2001 playoff performance is as good as i've seen for a goaltender ever... But '96 was a different story he played as good as he had to but he didn't have to become St Patrick to help win it for the AVS- i think both Richter and Beezer had greater performances in playoff runs in their career than Roy did in 96 so i believe the Avs were good enough to win that one with either of those 3 stellar clutch goaltenders... Beezer had a .95+ save percentage in 96 with the meddling Panthers up until he met Roy and that stacked Av's team... If he had a real championship team like the Avs i don't see him gassing out and losing like he did taking 50 shots a game backstopping a expansion draft team without a scorer nor star in front of him...
Can you please do the career of your friend Michael Buble, who shall remain nameless? But seriously, love your work Shannon! Thanks for keeping me sane during this isolation. Take care!
He could do the history of the one-day career of Michael Buble. When he became a member of the Canucks
What does a jazz pop singer have to do with hockey?
@@father042 you obviously don't follow the channel
@@jamesgentry13 I don’t, what does the singer have to do with Shannon
@@denistuohy2535 if you followed enough you would know they are good friends
Love him or hate him there was a time, back in his prime, when Lindros was arguably the most dominant player in the game.
mary k FACT
True af
Agreed. He was scary good.
@@flounder Forsberg > Lindros
Definitely until Stevens rung his bell. He wasn't the same after that concussion
Lindros was guest instructor at my hockey camp in either 95 or 96 in Guelph Ontario. He was awesome, he would get on one knee at center ice and ask us which Post to hit with a slap shot and he would hit it LOL
Legion of Doom line was unbelievable, physical and offensively productive.
Concussions also cost the careers of Keith Primeau, Chris Pronger, Pat Lafontaine, and Marc Savard
Kariya too
@@TheBeegle77 Scott Stevens deserves a lifetime of concussions for the shit that he did
Horrible. Im a fan of all of them. Patty lala one hurt the most for me as a sabres fan. Wonder if he could have been the difference in the 99 cup final. Pronger was a freak. What d man wins the Hart. Unreal. Savard one sucked too. He should have been playing in their cup run. Primeau was a man among boys.
@@andyc9979 the answer is absolutely yes. LalalalalalalalalalalalalaFontaine would have for sure made a difference in that cup run. I was only 8 but I still remember watching that game 6 with my dad in our living room. That was heartbreaking.
@@erikmacaluso Stevens almost always hit with legal hits honestly. If he was out there players had to keep their head up. 🤷♂️
There was an article a couple years ago in sports illustrated on where he talked about how Crosby could end up like him
I was saying that back in high-school (around 2011 I think) when Crosby had a major concussion that he already had a few and he could risk not just his career, but health if he took another one like that and compared him directly to Lindros. Luckily for Crosby that has not happened, but we don't know as I believe to this day that Crosby's career will be cut short if he takes another nasty blow to his head. I'd hate to see if happen, but concussions are not anything to joke about.
I agree I would hate to see that
Greatest Flyers Ever! Those beginning years were unforgettable and I wouldn't trade them for the world.
Lindros should've won the Art Ross Trophy in 1995, PPG over Goals since we also have the
Maurice "Rocket" Richard Trophy for goals.
The REAL reason Lindros absolutely refused to EVER play for Quebec was because the Quebec owner hit on his Mom. True story.
Really?
He hit on many women... Horrible person
Apparently Marcel Aubut, Nordiques President, said some nasty about Lindros mom in french. However, the idiot didn’t know she understood french!
Ironic as I heard that Eric banged a fellow Flyers wife who ended up getting traded. I heard this from my roommate in University who played with Eric in Oshawa so it is on good authority. I won’t name the Flyer guy that left.
@@jasonsmith5226 not quite but the real story is arguably worse. I forgot where but marcel abute was at an event where the lindros family was also at and he said some pretty sexist and explicit stuff about lindroses mom while she was in earshot. Keep in mind he said this in French because he thought they didn’t speak it. Needless to say he was wrong
Always liked Lindros.
Me Too Eric Was The Reason I Became a Flyers Fan When I Was a Kid in 1995!
Woooooooo! Career videos! Love 'em.
If Lindros had played for Quebec , you'd be looking at a team including:
Sakic
Lindros
Sundin
Nolan
Kamensky
Kovalenko
Rucinsky
Young
Another effect (not as speculative): Before the Red Wings' Russian Five there could have been the Nordiques' Russian Five: Kamensky - Bykov - Khomutov, Gusarov - Tatarinov!!…..hahahah
That's too many #1 centers
I'd take Forsberg over Lindros 1 for 1 trade... Nords got a team for Lindros and it made their dynasty in years to come when they moved to Colorado...
Those five Russians you named are to the Russian Five, what Jack Black is to Chris Farley...
I hated Lindros in the 90's, probably because he was a Flyer. But do you know what I hated more? I hate that his career was cut short.
He was a great villain for me in the 90's. I miss hating him and the rest of the Legion of Doom.
Lol. Agreed.
It was easy to hate him. He ran a lot of guys with hits that were borderline then and suspension worthy now. Back in the 90’s I was about 5’ nothing and 100lb soaking wet so it was easy to dislike that giant dude.
Did people really hate him back then?
@@v4v819 I can't speak for non Penguins fans, but he was hated by us 🐧.
One of the best Flyers of all time. Loved watching him.
Yup and Me Too Eric Was So Fun To Watch!
Most dominant player to ever wear a Flyers jersey. Period
Um have you completely forgotten about Andrew MacDonald??
And then he met Scott Stevens in which... well, you know the rest😂
@@evog35viii
Fuck Scott Stevens.
I would argue Dave Schultz was the most dominant because he helped them to 3 Stanley Cup Finals in a row winning the first 2.
Say at least of the 90's...
Hart trophy and most dominant physical force ever in the game. Obvious hall of famer. If he didn't have the injuries he would be the obvious GOAT power forward.
@D R True and Eric Had Issues With Bobby Clarke Big Time Especially With My Dad Being His Agent!
Would you really take Eric as your power forward over Keith? I'd make that trade! Eric was great when he was younger but was made of glass and got concussed and was already on his way out few seasons into the league... Also he was selfish... Keith was a way better captain for the Fliers and a better role model for the kids as well... And Keith's playoff run with the flyer's was as dominant a playoff performance i've ever seen from a forward...
Lindros played in the clutch and grab era of the neutral zone trap and was a clear generational talent. He would be on a level with Ovechkin and Malkin if he played with today's officiating. The only blemish on his career is not winning a cup which not many teams could do during that time with Detroit, NJ and Colorado dominating during that period.
Those 3 teams you mentioned actually only amounted to 8 cups between each other... Plenty of other teams got one including Dallas and two for the Penguins also Canadiens (ROY!!!) Rangers and Tampa Bay and Edmonton started the 90's without the great one and Coffey... So there was plenty of parity back then... And in the end Av's only one won in the 90's and another one in 2001- with Ray and 7 other Hof'ers- and Wing's are the only one to win two in a row in the clutch and grab era then one more in 2002 with a stacked team. Devil's actually won as many as Wings with 3 to Av's two and Dallas the Rodney Dangerfield of 90's NHL teams won one in '99 and got to the finals to be defeated by the Devils in '00!
It goes to show if you have 2 top 10 centers and a cornerstone blueliner and depth and a big game goalie then you can give any team a run for it's money- even the Red Army!
Lindros is the perfect player, he can set up, handle the puck great, score goals and KICK YOUR ASS!
If not for one fatal flaw... He never was taught the most fundamental rule in hockey: Keep your head up! And he paid the ultimate price...
imagine lindros, sakic and sundin... :O
Double :O
Lilla Sked Imagine Lindros and Forsberg on the Flyers. The Flyers didn’t want to throw in Brind’amour (because Forsberg was still years away from coming to the NHL) to Quebec.
and Owen Nolan!
Scary
Both Sakic and Sundin were both centers and although Sundin would eventually go to Toronto and the Nords would eventually get Forsberg due to the Lindros trade, in reality it made no sense that the Nords would still draft Lindros especially since the Nords have two 100-point centers in Sakic and Sundin despite losing seasons between 1990 ad 1994.
Eitehr way, Lindros had every right not to stay in Quebec not because of the language issues and the city, but because of the owner, plus consider the factor of already having two great centers in Sakic and Sundin and drafting Lindros made absolutely no sense. If Lindros had been drafted in QUE, would've he been put on QUE's third line behind Sakic and Sundin.
I can understand why people don't like Lindros (rivalry between the Flyers and NYR and NJ, too physical, too sucessful during his time in PHL, better scorer and playmaker, etc.), but at the time QUE already had two great centers and getting another center as the number one draft pick made absolutely no sense and if I were Sakic or Sundin, I would be more concerned about my job security with the team and both had every right to be concerned anyway ans when Sakic said he didn't care about the Lindros draft, he was really referring to his job security, not Lindros the man.
The best 18-year old hockey player I've ever seen play. No other player at his age could've made the '91 Canada Cup team and been one of their best players.
You're high,...
The most physically dominant player of his era.
When he was on, he could be unstoppable.
His style of play wore him down and shortened his career.
His relationship with the Flyers has long been repaired.
He was just named a team ambassador last week.
It's hard to describe to people who never saw him play just how dominant he was. It was like a man amongst boys, just physically manhandling opposing players. Then you allied that to his incredible skill level....
And then he met Scott Stevens
@@evog35viii and Stevens career would end because of concussions.....
As a Flyers season ticket holder during Lindros tenure, it was a series of ups and downs. After he won the MVP in 1995, I thought we would win multiple Cups as he was the perfect transition from the Gretzky/Lemieux era.
From the minute the RedWings swept us in the ‘97 Finals it slowly went downhill. People talk about the Stevens hit in 2000, but the real turning point was the Kasparitis hit in March ‘98 that gave him his first concussion. I honestly don’t think he was the same player after that.
We lost in the first round in ‘98, he got the collapsed lung and missed the ‘99 playoffs. Got the concussion and missed most of ‘00 playoffs until the Stevens hit in Game 7 (Let me tell you that place was dead silent for the rest of the game). He sat out all of 00-01 as Clarke would not trade him and then he was shipped to the Rangers before 01-02 season,
I love Lindros and cherish that era being at every game. But his career is a big ‘what if’ and I never felt he should have been inducted into the Hall of Fame.
The Hall is tricky, there's a lot of players who never peaked as high as Lindros
You should have remained a season ticket holder you would have made a fortune now a days and it's still climbing those ticket prices, somehow exceeding even inflation these days...
as bad as the decision by Quebec to ignore Eric sounded, it got them Forsberg (ironically similar career) and other pieces which leads to 1995-96 being ready when Patrick Roy is traded to them to win, but also this is the man that makes the hall of fame a debate every year, him, Forsberg, Kariya and to a lesser extent Pavel Bure (he at least had 2 rocket richard trophies and 60+ goal seasons)
I get into that at the end, that their atubborn attitude led to an Avs Cup or two.
@@TheHockeyGuy oh I know you did, I was the silly one posting literally as you said it
My first ever favorite player in the league even though he wasn't a King. He was a beast on NHL 99 😝
When I grew up, I could never see the hype around Eric Lindros. And the value he was pu at even less. He was IMO never anything near Mario Lemieux or Wayne Gretzky. In my opinion, players like Jaromir Jagr, Teemu Selanne, Mats Sundin, Pavel Bure etc-etc was early on much-much more potential rich and they near exploded on to the scene both in the NHL and on International ice.
Heck in the "Lindros Trade saga", only Peter Forsberg. ONLY Forsberg proved early on was worth that massive trade. And after 1997 I never felt he could lead to a cup despite he was still young and in his prime.
Lindros is definitely HOF material. His presence literally influenced other teams to adapt to HIM.
LMFAOOO!!!
One of the biggest names in hockey during the 90s. If you put Recchi and Carbo in the Hall, Lindros is a shoe in.
Hof talent not career
Should've put your pinky up when you said $15 million dollars! 😄
It's a shame that injuries wiped out his tenure in Toronto. He played terrific to begin the 2005-06 season, shouldering the bulk off the offence when Mats Sundin went down for 10 or so games to begin that season. Not sure if the Leafs would have made the playoffs still that season with a healthy Eric Lindros, but it looked as he was going to be a solid contributor had the injuries had not occured.
Eric was just misunderstood
Oh boo fuxking hoo. Fuck Lindros. You play for who drafts you
Good one, Shannon! Eric was a polarizing player. It seemed everybody had a strong view of him either way back in the day. You can't deny that he was a force on the ice in his prime. The guy was a wrecking ball that could score and throw punches in bunches. He could pretty much single handedly take control of a game, set the tone and impose his will. It's a shame that we as fans were robbed of more healthy playing years due to concussions, but not an unfamiliar situation.
Hmm. Let’s get a career video of everyone’s favorite player: Claude Lemieux. The playoff performances, the suspensions, the Cup rings, the whole nine yards.
Just show a video of him turtling. Gutless puke.
what about ALL the cheap shots? Cam Neeley can't wait to watch that one. P.S. I know you're kidding about him being everybody's favorite player.
Quebec owner thought Lindros mom was hot and creeped the family out. Can’t deny that she is to be fair
Thats BS
I really wish things turned out different. 97 was the Flyer's year but they just happened to run into a really great Detroit team that year. Philly is due to win another Cup soon. 45 year drought needs to end.
Dave Muscarella just remember, the Leafs have been waiting for the finals since ‘67...
If I remember correctly, there was also some discussion about which offer came to Quebec first? Something about the time that was on the fax when it was printed on the fax machine. They accepted the Flyers offer then looked at the Rangers offer and said "Oops"
A detail that always seems to get lost is Forsberg only played 708 career NHL games where Eric played 760 so very hard to say that things would turned out much different.
Forsberg gets to play with:
Sundin, Sakic and Owen Nolan
Lindros got:
Recchi, Brind'amour and Kevin Dineen.
Worth noting Lindros started a concussion research center. He definitely had the talent though.
Lindros was great. An absolute beast. I really wish he'd have won a few cups with the Flyers.
True and Shame He Had So Many Issues With Bobby Clarke Which Was Stupid!
Absolute great storyline recounting! 🏆Destiny is destiny amidst those dramas!
Lindros had this kind of problem with the OHL draft as well. After tearing up in junior B, he was selected by the Soo Greyhounds, despite warnings that he would not play there. This time his family was worried that the long road trips would have an affect on his education. He was eventually traded to the Oshawa Generals, where it worked out for a while there. Of course, the rest is already mentioned in the video in regards of what happened in the NHL.
The feud between him and Scott Stevens was worth the price of admission...was at a couple of those games in Philly when they had more than one fight per game...
Normally I agree with you Shannon but not this time. Yes I agree that Quebec chose him even after he said he would not play there. However, who was he to dictate where he plays? He could have easily flopped. See Alexandre Daigle. He did have a solid career even though he was hampered by concussions, but I still say a player out of juniors should not dictate where to play. If that is the case, why do we have a draft?
Lindros did not want to play for Marcel Aubut based on some meeting where Aubut had made comments about his family. He has said that years later. In the 1997 Finals Lindros only had one goal. It came in the last minute in Game 4 where it basically didn’t mean anything. He’s had an interesting career.
Aubut didn't know they could speak french and made a comment about Lindros''s mom smelling worse than a Quebecois hooker in heat... And Eric and his father took offense to that...
The biggest winner of Eric Lindros's career was Quebec Nordiques/Colorado Avalanche. Both or the '92 trade deals were awesome and offered the organization way more than even a fully healthy Lindros ever could have done.
I wonder who were responsible of those two offers at '92. Who were those people who were ready to give so much for Lindros. Of course no one could know beforehand Forsberg would develop to a legend and Thibault would be something good enough to be able to trade for Roy but still. Even that Rangers trade would have probably worked aswell. A good starting goalie with Richter or Vanbiesbrouck(both Cup finalists atleast) and 3 high quality forwards. Amonte became a several time 40+ goal scorer in the horrible Blackhawks, Kovalev had some high quality seasons aswell and Nemchinov was also a good 2-3 line center.
I liked Lindros. Really what was there not to like. Flyers over paid for him but it wasn't my money. The only problem he really had was playing that hard physical game. Unless you're chemically enhanced you don't last long playing that way in any sport. I'm happy he is back in the Flyers family. He belongs here.
Also it is one of the great mysteries of my life why no teammate of Lindros went after Stevens for that hit. I remember watching that game with great anticipation of someone going after Stevens to no avail. That really pissed me off. That was the day the bullies died for me. Where were his teammates?? Really a sad day as a Flyers fan.
Michael Zampelli Keith Jones talked about that game and you have to read between the lines. But I think you answered your own question. I think most of the team (with the exception of Leclair) resented him at that point. I honestly don’t think they wanted him to come back in that series and screw up the team chemistry.
Stevens was a tramp back then he should done jail time for that hit
Messier and Lundros played for Team Canada in I think it was the Canada Cup back in the 90s. I think Gretzky was either hurt or just that Messier and Lindros were on the ice at the same time. They scored a fantastic goal and so play by play man Gary Thorne said, 88 and 11 really does add up to 99.
Lindros recently came out and admitted the reason he didn't join the nordiques was due to the ownership
I heard it was because the owner was sexually harrassing his mom.
One of the most dominating players in NHL history at his peek. A totally monster ! 😂😂 His points per game average is 17 th best with players at least 600 games. Skillwise belongs to HHOF. Same case with Pavel Bure
One of the saddest stories in sports, in my opinion. Even as a Pens fan I wish it could have worked out better for him.
As a Flyers Fan I Agree With Your Point Big Time About Eric Lindros!
Why do Pens and Flyer's fans hate each other's teams... You guys do realize you're on the opposite ends of a state...
Sorry but it wasn't a "Quebec thing" it was a Marcel Aubut thing.
Pierre Page made the trade to Philly but Aubut went on his own and talked to the Rangers and because the Rangers offered 20 million Aubut the snake that he is wanted that offer.
The Flyers were awarded the trade because it was finalized first and it was actually investigated.
@Charles Szasz Well Lindros has stated the main reason he wouldn't play for the Nordiques was because of Aubut.
I have heard Aubut either sexual harassed or said something that offended Lindros mother.
I really don't like Lindros but Aubut is a SOB.
I actually feel pretty sorry for Lindros. Good God, what a fantastic player he was. Just a shitty combination of circumstances set about to screw him over.
I remember at the time that Rangers package(which also had Doug Weight in it) seemed so much better than the Flyers package. Forsberg was not expected to become as good as he did.
I'm an Isles fan, but I would never take anything away from him. He was an absolutely dominating player for years.
To be honest if someone picked for Buffalo didn't want to play for them I wouldn't blame them.
This comment has aged extremely well.
Thatswhy They pick European born Players !
At least it's in the states and in NY state so you got a market to capitalize... Sakic was barely known and was a 100 point scorer multiple times... Quebec had no chance keeping a team outside of Montreal... They don't even speak the right language and unlike Montreal it has no money... Just snooty politicians and beastly Quebecois chicks...
great video Shannon, you should make a video about either your favourite current or all-time players to watch, think that could be kinda interesting coming from somebody who watches all but every game they can!
What a great play and even though the team treated him badly, the fans adored him and still do and the feeling is mutual. Eric has never said a cross word about the fans. That said, I often wonder how things would have played out had Eric gone to Quebec and Forsberg stayed in Philly.
He was a great player for awhile, one of the best power forwards in the game but he didn't live up to his potential and lost too many games and even an entire season. Mario lost a lot of games and a season as well but he was still playing at an All-Star level when he returned, Eric didn't. I don't think he belongs in the HoF.
I would love to see one of these on myself, Shannon. Thank you and great videos.
Watched Lindros in OHL
He had a solid NHL career but he was never the Same after that injury
Love the video. Though I wasn't watching hockey back then I wish I was. As a French Canadian, he has been discussed a lot by the media over here and defended by those who erroneously believe that he was anti French. Nothing could be further from the truth. I did watch very closely his first official in depth interview on radio Canada's most successful talk show tout le monde en parle a few years ago and absolutely loved Eric lindros. Such a good person. Yes, the mismanagement is probably a reason but it's not the only reason. In a slip of the tongue he did accidentally allude to the real reason which he tried to clean up the next day and was vigorously denied but I do suspect that there actually was a kernel of truth there and that was in fact the main reason. But the past is the past and I suspect that very few die hard nordiques fans are still bitter about this.
It was just a year after the Brockville incident involving the desecration of Quebec's flag. Separatists were quick to use Brockville and Lindros as arguments for separation. And Lindros should have known this.
Also, Lindros' father explicitly said the refusal had to do with politics. Lindros may not have felt that way at the time, but his parents certainly did.
I attended University of Waterloo in Ontario in late 80's and early 90's, with our tearm playing against Lindros of the Oshawa Generals. Some articles came up in the University student newspaper at how obnoxious Lindros was with players of other college teams: in particular he was mocking french Canadian players. Whereas he may not have liked Aubut of the Nordiques, many players are not all that enchanted with their team owners or management, yet act professionally. Lindros showed no respect for french Canadians, and appeared to have a sense of entitlement in not being cooperative and professional, as when he (and family) refused to report and play for the Sault Ste-Marie Greyhounds (where Gretzky played) in Ontario Junior A. Although he had a good amount of talent, he only performed well for a few years; and very little in playoffs; having a big ego and being a disruptive force just like PK Subban; the case is not in favor of him getting the accolade of a Hall of Famer.
I was so excited that Lindros was going to The Nords.Lindros and Sakic!!!But then things did not happen,it was like when John Elway refused to play for the Colts(nfl).My teams just cant win,but the Lindros issues coulda been a disaster in Quebec.
Geoff Courtnall also suffered a shortened career due to concussions. Although not the level of a Lindross, he's my all time favorite player. He did everything well regardless of the style/era he was playing in.
Lindros was the guy you created in NHL career mode but it ultimately shortened his career because of his psychically demanding style. The body can only take so much. Great player but definitely far too short a career.
Looking at the alternate possible future outcomes from the Rangers trade perspective. Do they get Messier? Keenan? Can Vanbiesbrouck win the cup? Could we be in 2022 listening to 1940 chants?
Thanks for this. Love making pizza and listening to career stories from this channel :) How about one about Miroslav Satan, captain of Slovakia?
Forsberg vs Lindros...You have a choice between the ankle and the back injuries...Back always lose...
Name me a player who had the skills, speed, size and ferocity of Lindros. I don't think you can. Clarke really screwed up with him and I no longer esteem Mr. Clarke (not Bobby anymore.) Such a shame, he had it all.
He was great at watching his feet lol
He's no Gordie Howe but no player is cause they don't seem to be built to last like the good old timer's were... Gordie was as tough and complete an all-around player the NHL has ever seen and no one was greater for longer than Mr Hockey... There will never be another Gordie Howe!
Lindros is a legend!
At the time the trade probably looked ok. Forsberg was just undervalued. That is really where the trade failed, because he was included. I remember the Forsberg vs Lindros rivalry back then. Interestingly, Lindros have swedish ancestry. Here in Sweden, most ppl were Forsberg fans. I was one of the Lindros fans. But I remember them being considered equals in the 90's. Then Lindros's career just went south. Because I'm not from NA and because I was so young at the time, I never really grasped how serious it was. I just thought it was bad luck and concussion related, but hearing these stories, I really feel sorry for him. I think he really deserved better and these days I know that the league would have stepped in to protect him. There were probably players who were ordered to bang him up, the dirtier the better. That's when you know the league have lost it. And they let it go on for so long. This is supposed to be for fun. Those who try to injury other players should be disciplined severely. You can't say that they didn't know better, because there were clear signs of concussion related problems. They should have implemented the current protocols and stricter rules sooner. I have gotten the impression that Lindros was kind of rejected by the canadian hockey establishment, because of what he did at the draft, and that this was the reason why they allowed this to happen. They allowed their generational talent to be sacrificed. Had it been a "good boy" like Crosby, then I think the experts would have stepped in and fixed the issue sooner. This is really one of the darkest periods in NHL history, and there were many other victims.
Love lundros I think a video on the rise and fall of the IHL would be an interesting watch I think in the 90's most of the best minor league talent came out of the IHL instead of the AHL and there games were very competitive since they also had some teams just to compete without an NHL affiliated talent on there rosters
Should have mentioned that also snugged the SSM Greyhounds by refusing to play there
My favourite player, loved Eric but that’s heavily biased being a Philly fan.
Anyone else check their phone for a Facebook call? Lol
I'm a little surprised the Rangers considered gambling away significant pieces of their core to join the Lindros sweepstakes considering they just come off a President Trophy season and, as it turned out, were close to winning the cup. I agree the franchise, eventually going to Colorado, would not have won the cup in 1996 but I bet the Rangers would not have won the cup in 1994 if they acquired Lindros.
he kept his head down too often. which surely explains for the concussions.
Curse of being the biggest guy on ice in youth and college hockey? Never had to look up, because noone ever tried to hit the big brick wall coming full steam ahead.
I like Eric Lindros, the Avs won a bunch of cups, and were so much fun to watch because of him. Yes, think of it that way and he's great.
I don't think Quebec/Colorado wins the cup without that Lindros Trade
I'm not completely convinced the Flyers make that Stanley Cup Finals Run without that Lindros Trade.
If the Rangers made the deal and sent Richter it would have been Vancouver New Jersey final in 94. Talk about Bizarro land
Eric Lindros .. is the best skilled power forward ever to play so far
I think Shanahan have something say about that
@@jayrock248 Shanahan? Try Richard, Howe, Messier and Esposito.
@@jayrock248 What are your criteria? All four are well known for their physical play. Not simply being able to play physical, but to actively seek it out.
Take the 3 best forwards of all time, Howe, Gretzky, and Lemieux.
Imagine a 7 game series.
Put all the players in the same era.
Wide open hockey, fast and loose.
Or... Clutch and grab, neutral zone trap era. Tight and physical.
Now..... Pick any 1 you like of the 3 at full health at the top of their game. Goalies equal....officiating not favoring any player..... respective teams equal Lemieux would be the only player in NHL history I'd see having any chance.
Lindros was too skilled, too big, too strong, and at his best, too mean for any other player to contend with. He was the 3rd highest scorer in league history per game before Injury derailed him. And he didnt play in an era of free wheeling and open spaces as the others did. He didnt play against small goalies with small pads. Lindros MADE his space physically with players draped all over him, holding on for fear life. Multiple players stacked on each and every dump in, grabbing him to slow him down. They changed the rules and made this tactic LEGAL due to HIM. Upon his retirement they reinstated obstruction interference. Back to the way it was for the other 3.
It's Lindros. And it's not even a close second.