Jean Beliveau

I can still remember his famous lean on defensemen as he carried the puck in, keeping it extended away from them.

A great player and a great ambassador for the sport after he retired.

One of the legends. My favorite story involves his independent streak. As a young player in Quebec, everybody knew it was a matter of time before the Canadiens signed him. At the time (and right up to Gilbert Perreault) the Habs had exclusive pick of all talent in Quebec. All of it. No French players out of Quebec by draft - none. Beliveau resisted, wanted to join the team on his own terms and didn't sign when given the opportunity. He said he would be content to continue to play semi-pro for the Quebec City Bulldogs. The owner of the team, sympathetic to Jean, refused to sell his team to the Habs for twice it's value. The Canadiens then - get this - purchased the entire league the Bulldogs played in and let Beliveau know either he signs with them or he plays nowhere. They got their man. This act alone defines the importance of this one player.

Gentleman Jean was probably a touch below Mario Lemieux talent-wise, but the two were similar players. The first thing that jumped out at you about Beliveau was his size: 6-3 in a day when most players were barely 6 feet. For a man of his stature, his stickhandling ability was truly awe-inspiring. He loved to handle the puck in traffic en route to the net, dangling it tantalizingly close to defender before blowing past them. Passing was another of Beliveau's chief strengths. His soft hands and keen hockey sense allowed him to make seeing-eye passes, many to the Richard brothers or Bernie Geoffrion. Beliveau was also a strong, graceful skater, and was one of the smartest players ever to play. Toughness never was a question, either, as he played with a somewhat rambunctious style. Beliveau's leadership also set him apart from other, lesser players. At the time he retired, this 2-time Hart trophy recipient was the NHL's all-time greatest scorer at center (he has since been surpassed by Espo and, of course, Gretzky).

Another great hockey figure--he was so graceful and talented --he was spectacular...a real leader on the ice. A great man. It was a honour weatching him.

The "heart" of the Montreal Canadiens. Gentleman Jean was a winner! He played a very good game in his center position ... piloting the Canadiens to many a Stanley Cup !!!

Gentleman Jean There was a great man.