Because I'm not the only one who is tired of reading math lectures, you're buddy Al is to the rescue. And yes, You Can Call Me Al.
Let's take a look at today in hockey history, and yes, there were things going on, and some of them actually relate to professional hockey in Pittsburgh.
1952- Newest members of the Hockey Hall of Fame were announced. They were Bill Cook, Dickie Boon, Frank "Moose" Goheeen, Ernie "Moose" Johnson and Mickey MacKay.
Now what do these names mean? Other than "Moose" was a very popular name back in the day, and we need more skaters rocking it- sorry Johan Hedberg- this class was mainly a nod to professional western hockey leagues, and of course the Canadian professional leagues. For a good time, check out Bill Cook's stats. I'd want those numbers skating in a Top 6 role.
Also of note, Mickey MacKay had a cup of coffee with the Pittsburgh Pirates in the season of our Lord, 1928-1929. 10 games, one goal, two PIMS, and then he went on to the Boston Bruins. He was also part of the Vancouver Millionaires Stanley Cup winning team.
1982- According to Hooked on Hockey Magazine, a "significant trade" took place. Here's the info:
Philadelphia sent Greg Adams, Ken Linseman, a first-round draft pick, and a third-round pick in to Hartford in exchange for the son of the legendary Gordie Howe, Mark Howe, and a third-round pick. For those of you wondering about the "identical" third-round pick, which were both for the 1983 draft, the Whalers’ pick (now belonging to the Flyers) ended up being the second pick of the third round (44th overall), while the Flyers pick (now belonging to Hartford) ended up being the second-to-last (61st overall). Mark Howe actually had a very successful career, but has been overshadowed by Mr. Hockey. I guess there’s no room for Mr. Hockey junior.
Should have pulled a Junior Gretzky and played baseball.
1988- This is really interesting. At 37-years old and three years into retirement, Guy Lafleur signed a one-year deal with the New York Rangers. Lafleur was inducted into the HHOF the year before, making him the second of three players to play an NHL game as a Hall of Famer. The one before him: Gordie Howe, the player after Lafleur, Mario Lemieux. Lafleur would go onto play two more seasons with the Nordiques.