With a career points mark of 1,209, he has also produced a shooting percentage of 14.7%. He has helped his teammates score 734 times with a helper, but he has hurt his team by spending 1,292 minutes in the sin bin. Having taken the ice 1,127 different times over the course of his NHL career, he has a plus/minus of -39 during those matchups. During his career, he has 475 goals on 3,231 shots at the opposing net.
Bernie Nicholls has made his way onto the ice 0 times and also has a total of 0 pts on the year. Nicholls has yet to put one past the opposing goalie and he also has tallied a +/- of 0. Nicholls has a shooting percentage of 0.0% (0 shots at the net) while spending no time in the bad bin. Nicholls has an average of 0.0 points per outing with 0 assists.
Bernie Nicholls NHL Career
When it comes to legendary hockey players, Bernie Nicholls undoubtedly holds a special place in the annals of NHL history. Known for his remarkable scoring ability and dynamic play style, Nicholls had an illustrious career that left an indelible mark on the sport. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at Bernie Nicholls’ NHL career, his impressive stats, and his journey from a young hockey hopeful to a top scoring leader in the league.
Early Life and Hockey Beginnings
Bernie Nicholls was born on June 24, 1961, in Haliburton, Ontario, Canada. Growing up in a small Canadian town, Nicholls developed a passion for hockey at a young age. Like many Canadian kids, he spent countless hours on outdoor rinks, honing his skills and dreaming of playing in the NHL.
Nicholls’ talent was evident from an early age, and he quickly rose through the ranks of minor hockey. His exceptional scoring ability and on-ice vision caught the attention of scouts, paving the way for his entry into professional hockey.
Entry into the NHL
Nicholls’ NHL career began in the early 1980s when he was drafted by the Los Angeles Kings in the fourth round of the 1980 NHL Entry Draft. This was a pivotal moment in his life, marking the beginning of what would become an extraordinary career.
He made his NHL debut with the Kings during the 1981-82 season, and it didn’t take long for him to make his presence felt. In his rookie season, Nicholls showcased his scoring prowess, finishing with 14 goals and 24 assists in just 22 games. This remarkable performance was a sign of great things to come.
Rise to Stardom
As Nicholls continued to develop his skills, he became a key player for the Los Angeles Kings. His ability to find the back of the net and create scoring opportunities made him one of the most feared forwards in the league. Nicholls had a breakout season in 1984-85, when he recorded 46 goals and 80 points, establishing himself as a bonafide star.
However, it was the 1988-89 season that truly cemented Nicholls’ place in NHL history. That year, he achieved an astonishing feat by scoring 70 goals and accumulating 150 points, making him one of the top scorers in the league. This remarkable achievement placed him among the NHL’s elite and earned him a spot in the All-Star Game.
Career Stats and Achievements
Bernie Nicholls’ career stats are a testament to his incredible talent and consistency. Over the course of his 18-season career in the NHL, Nicholls played for several teams, including the Los Angeles Kings, New York Rangers, Edmonton Oilers, New Jersey Devils, Chicago Blackhawks, and San Jose Sharks.
Here are some of the highlights of his illustrious career:
- Games Played: 1,127
- Goals: 475
- Assists: 734
- Points: 1,209
These impressive numbers reflect Nicholls’ ability to contribute offensively and make a significant impact on the ice. His 70-goal season in 1988-89 remains one of the highest single-season goal totals in NHL history, a testament to his scoring prowess.
Nicholls’ Playing Style
Nicholls was known for his versatility as a player. He could play both center and wing positions, and his ability to adapt to different roles made him an invaluable asset to his teams. His exceptional vision and playmaking ability allowed him to set up teammates with precision passes, while his goal-scoring instincts made him a constant threat around the net.
Nicholls’ on-ice intelligence and ability to read the game set him apart from many of his peers. He had a knack for finding open spaces and exploiting defensive weaknesses, often leaving opponents struggling to contain him.
Impact on the NHL
Bernie Nicholls’ impact on the NHL extended beyond his impressive statistics. He was a fan favorite, known for his charismatic personality and love for the game. His dedication to his craft and his work ethic served as an inspiration to aspiring hockey players worldwide.
Moreover, Nicholls’ remarkable career helped pave the way for future generations of players. His success demonstrated that determination and hard work could lead to greatness, regardless of where one started.
Life After Hockey
Following his retirement from professional hockey in 1999, Bernie Nicholls remained involved in the sport he loved. He transitioned into coaching and mentoring roles, sharing his knowledge and experience with young players. Nicholls also became an advocate for various charitable causes, using his platform to make a positive impact off the ice.
Today, Bernie Nicholls is remembered not only for his incredible NHL career but also for his contributions to the sport and his community. His legacy continues to inspire hockey enthusiasts and players alike, serving as a reminder of what can be achieved through passion and dedication.
Conclusion
Bernie Nicholls’ NHL career is a story of triumph, perseverance, and excellence. From his humble beginnings in Haliburton to becoming one of the NHL’s top scorers, Nicholls’ journey is a testament to his incredible talent and determination.
His impressive career stats and achievements speak volumes about his impact on the game, and his legacy endures as a source of inspiration for hockey players around the world. Bernie Nicholls will always be remembered as a true hockey legend, leaving an indelible mark on the sport he cherished.
