Having made his way onto the ice 958 times in his career, he has a +/- of 245 during those matchups. With a career points mark of 697, he has also earned a shooting rate of 14.2%. In his pro hockey career, he has 319 goals on 2,253 attempts at the net. He has taken care of his teammates 378 times by assisting, but he has harmed his team by spending 1,025 minutes in the sin bin.
Gillies has a total of 0 assists and he also has a shooting rate of 0.0%. He has tallied a +/- of 0 and he has 0 pts. Gillies has spent no time in the penalty box and he has yet to put one past the opposing goalie for the year. Clark Gillies has earned 0 tries and is averaging 0.0 points per game during his 0 times he’s stepped onto the ice.
Clark Gillies is a name that resonates with hockey fans, especially those familiar with the New York Islanders’ golden era. Known for his physical play and leadership qualities, Gillies made a significant mark in the NHL, and his contributions to the game have been celebrated long after his retirement. This article delves into the career of Clark Gillies, highlighting his stats, achievements, and legacy in the hockey world.
| # | Preview | Product | Price | |
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| 1 |
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1976 Topps Hockey Card (1976-77) #126 Clark Gillies Excellent | $21.99 | Buy on Amazon |
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1991-92 Upper Deck #640 Clark Gillies NM-MT | $0.89 | Buy on Amazon |
Early Life and Entry into the NHL
Clark “Jethro” Gillies was born on April 7, 1954, in Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan, Canada. From a young age, Gillies displayed a passion for hockey, playing in local leagues and showing great promise as a budding athlete. His determination and skills caught the attention of scouts, and before long, he was on a path to professional hockey.
Gillies was drafted by the New York Islanders as the fourth overall pick in the 1974 NHL Amateur Draft. His entry into the NHL marked the beginning of a significant era not only for him but also for the Islanders, who were on the verge of becoming a dominant force in the league.
Rise to Stardom with the New York Islanders
Upon joining the Islanders, Gillies quickly established himself as a powerful left winger. Standing at 6 feet 3 inches and weighing over 200 pounds, he was known for his physical style of play. Yet, Gillies wasn’t just a tough player; he was also skilled with the puck, which made him a dual threat on the ice.
Key Achievements and Stats
During his tenure with the Islanders, Gillies was instrumental in leading the team to four consecutive Stanley Cup victories from 1980 to 1983. His ability to score goals and assist teammates made him a valuable asset to the team. Over his career, Gillies played in 958 regular-season games, scoring 319 goals and providing 378 assists, culminating in a total of 697 points.
His playoff performances were equally impressive. In 164 playoff games, Gillies scored 47 goals and contributed 47 assists, underscoring his ability to perform under pressure and in crucial games.
Leadership and Influence
Gillies’ influence extended beyond his stats. He served as the captain of the Islanders from 1977 to 1979, during which he demonstrated leadership qualities that inspired his teammates. His leadership on and off the ice was a key component of the Islanders’ success in the late 1970s and early 1980s.
Gillies was known for his ability to stand up for his teammates, often engaging in physical play to protect them. This role as both a protector and a scorer made him a respected figure in the locker room and among fans.
Later Career and Retirement
After an illustrious career with the Islanders, Gillies was claimed by the Buffalo Sabres in the 1986 NHL Waiver Draft. He played two seasons with the Sabres before retiring in 1988. While his time with Buffalo was not as decorated as with the Islanders, he continued to showcase his talent and experience.
Post-Retirement and Legacy
Following his retirement, Gillies remained active in the hockey community and engaged in various charitable activities. His contributions to the sport were recognized in 2002 when he was inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame, an honor that solidified his legacy as one of the greats in the sport.
Gillies’ number 9 jersey was retired by the Islanders in 1996, a testament to his impact on the franchise and its fans. To this day, his name is synonymous with the Islanders’ dynasty years, and he is remembered as one of the most beloved players in the team’s history.
Conclusion
Clark Gillies’ NHL career is a story of talent, leadership, and success. From his early days in Moose Jaw to his celebrated career with the New York Islanders and beyond, Gillies exemplified what it means to be a hockey player. His stats and achievements speak volumes, but it is his presence and influence on and off the ice that truly define his legacy.
As fans reminisce about the Islanders’ dynasty, Clark Gillies’ name will forever be etched in the annals of hockey history. His dedication to the sport and his team is an inspiration to players and fans alike, reminding us of the impact one individual can have in the world of sports.