The Montreal Canadiens, affectionately known as Habs, are the world’s oldest operating hockey team. The team has the highest number of inductees in the Hockey Hall of Fame, with thirty-seven legends receiving the honour. Maurice “Rocket” Richard is one of the names that stands tall among the Hall of Fame inductees who, with his 544 goals, led Canadiens to victory during the 1940s. His tenure with the team is not just a tale of personal triumph and extraordinary talent, but a story that inspires hockey fans across generations. Richard's legacy is cherished by fans and collectors alike, symbolizing the essence of hockey's golden era. This post explores the monumental career of Maurice Richard and delves into the significance of owning memorabilia signed by the legendary Rocket.
MAURICE RICHARD & THE STANLEY CUP
In the Spotlight: Maurice Richard’s Early Life and Career Achievements
Joseph Henri Maurice Richard was born to Onésime Richard and Alice Laramée on August 4th 1921. He developed his interest in hockey during his childhood when he received his first pair of skates at the age of four. He began playing hockey competitively at the age of 14 and his career took off with Verdun Juniors as a rookie at the age of 18. He scored four goals in ten regular games. He added a further six goals in the four playoff games, leading Verdun Juniors to victory in the provincial championship. Let’s see how his career progressed over the years and how he became known as one of the 100 Greatest Players in NHL history.
● In 1940, Richard was promoted to the Canadiens in the Quebec Senior Hockey League, but broke his ankle in the first game and had to sit out the rest of the season.
● He scored his first NHL goal against the New York Rangers in 1942.
● The 1944-45 season was the most rewarding for Maurice Richard when he scored 50 goals in 50 games. He was also this season’s most valuable player (Hart Trophy) finalist.
● He repeated his goal-winning streak in 1946-47 with 45 goals and was recognized as NHL’s Most Valuable Player.
● He scored 544 goals with 422 assists in 978 games.
● Maurice Richard became the first player in NHL history to score 500 goals.
● He won 8 Stanley Cups and 1 Hart Trophy.
● He was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 1961.
● Maurice Richard played in 13 All-Star Games between 1947 and 1959, NHL First Team All-Star between 1945 and 1950, as well as 1955 and 1956.
● His Number 9 jersey was retired by the Canadiens in 1960.
● The Maurice “Rocket” Richard Trophy, established in his honour, is awarded to the lead goal scorer of the National Hockey League. This trophy was donated to the NHL by the Montreal Canadiens’ in 1998-1999 and Teemu Selanne was the first winner.
MAURICE RICHARD LITHOGRAPH
An Analysis of Maurice Richard’s Playing Style
Richard was nicknamed “Rocket” by his teammate Ray Getliffe, who praised his style when he approached the goalpost. Later, local reporters used this nickname to refer to Richard’s strength, speed, and determination on the ice. Glen Hall confirmed that Richard’s eyes lit up like a rocket when he barreled toward him with the puck.
Richard was not known for his passing skills unlike other players of his time. He usually scored backhand or forehand or swept towards the net from the blue line. This straightforward, no-nonsense approach to scoring helped revive the Montreal Canadiens franchise, which had struggled to attract fans in the 1930s.
Despite Richard’s focus on scoring over passing, his contributions were pivotal, leading to 14 postseason all-star team appearances and playing in 13 consecutives NHL All-Star Games from 1947 to 1959.
Importance of Maurice Richard Memorabilia
The legacy of Maurice Richard is immortalized in NHL history, record books, and the memories of fans who either watched him play in his prime years, or were taught his legacy. A piece of the Rocket’s history can be passed on to generations through authentic autographed Maurice Richard memorabilia.
Image Courtesy: NHL
Maurice Richard’s autograph embodies the legend himself – distinctive, bold, and proud. Thus, owning a piece of authentic autographed Maurice Richard memorabilia is like celebrating Rocket’s enduring influence on the game and its culture. This is why Richard’s signature is one of the most valuable among hockey legends. Whether it's a Maurice Richard autographed photo, vintage sign or signed jersey, each item offers a tangible connection to his remarkable career. It is the mark of authenticity that fans and collectors cherish. Do you want to own an authentic Maurice Richard autographed item for yourself? You can contact us at Autograph Authentic. All autographed items are 100% guaranteed and include a serial-numbered Hologram with a matching COA. Detailed COAs and legal commissioned documents are available upon request.