Serge Savard

Serge Savard. A legendary defenceman in the NHL, he is best known as a cornerstone of the Montreal Canadiens dynasty of the 1970s. Renowned for his defensive prowess and leadership, he won the Stanley Cup eight times with the Canadiens and was awarded the Conn Smythe Trophy as playoff MVP in 1969. Following his playing days, he became a successful executive, serving as general manager for the Canadiens and helping build another championship team in 1993.

Early life and junior career

Born in Montreal, Quebec, he developed his skills in the local minor hockey system before joining the Montreal Junior Canadiens of the Ontario Hockey Association. His standout play with the Junior Canadiens, where he was known for his size and defensive acumen, made him a top prospect. His performance earned him a spot on the Memorial Cup-winning team in 1964, solidifying his reputation as a future star. This success led to his selection by the Montreal Canadiens in the first round of the 1966 NHL Amateur Draft.

NHL playing career

He made his NHL debut for the Montreal Canadiens during the 1966-67 season, quickly establishing himself as a reliable presence on the blue line. His career-defining moment came during the 1969 Stanley Cup playoffs, where his outstanding defensive play and key contributions earned him the Conn Smythe Trophy. He formed a formidable defensive pairing with Larry Robinson and was a key member of the 1976-77 Canadiens, considered one of the greatest teams in NHL history. Overcoming a severe leg fracture early in his career, he won eight Stanley Cup championships with the Canadiens, including four consecutive titles from 1976 to 1979, and was named team captain for the 1981-82 season.

Post-playing career and management

After retiring in 1983, he immediately transitioned into the Montreal Canadiens front office, first as a special assignment scout. He was promoted to general manager in 1983, a role in which he served with great success for over a decade. His astute management, including drafting players like Patrick Roy and John LeClair, and trading for Kirk Muller, culminated in the Canadiens winning the Stanley Cup in 1993. He later worked as a senior advisor for the Winnipeg Jets and was involved in various business ventures, including a partnership in the QMJHL's Montreal Juniors.

Legacy and honors

His legacy is cemented by his induction into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 1986, an honor that recognized his elite defensive play and championship pedigree. In 2017, he was named one of the '100 Greatest NHL Players' in league history as part of the NHL's centennial celebrations. The Montreal Canadiens retired his iconic #18 jersey in a ceremony at the Montreal Forum, placing him among the franchise's all-time greats. His unique achievement of winning the Stanley Cup as both a player and a general manager for the same franchise remains a rare feat in professional sports.

Personal life

He has been actively involved in numerous charitable endeavors, particularly those supporting children's health and amateur hockey development in Quebec. He is a noted businessman with interests in the restaurant and real estate sectors in the Montreal area. A devoted family man, he has maintained a relatively private life while remaining a revered public figure in Canada and a frequent honored guest at Montreal Canadiens alumni events. His contributions to the sport extend beyond the ice, as he is often sought for his insights on the game and its history.

Category:1946 births Category:Living people Category:Canadian ice hockey defencemen Category:Montreal Canadiens players Category:Hockey Hall of Fame inductees Category:Conn Smythe Trophy winners