During his NHL career, Joe Kocur has a total of 80 goals on 785 shots at the opposing goalie. Having stepped onto the ice 820 different times over the course of his NHL career, Joe Kocur has a plus/minus of -99 during those matchups. He has been of service to his team 82 times with an apple, but he has harmed his team by spending 2,519 minutes in the bad box. With a career points mark of 162, he has also accounted for a shooting rate of 10.2%.
Joe Kocur has tallied a +/- of 0 and he has 0 points. He has attempted 0 shots and is averaging 0.0 pts per game during his 0 games. Joe Kocur has accumulated 0 assists and he has a shooting % of 0.0%. Joe Kocur has spent no time in the bin and has yet to score a goal for the year.
Joe Kocur NHL Career
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Joe Kocur is a name that echoes through the annals of NHL history, known for his tough, gritty style of play and his role as an enforcer on the ice. His career spanned over a decade, during which he became a fan favorite for his physical gameplay and dedication to his teams. In this article, we’ll delve into Joe Kocur’s NHL career, examining his stats, achievements, and impact on the game of hockey.
Early Life and Entry into the NHL
Joe Kocur was born on December 21, 1964, in Kelvington, Saskatchewan, Canada. Growing up in a small Canadian town, hockey was a significant part of Kocur’s life from a young age. His journey to the NHL began when he was drafted by the Detroit Red Wings in the 1983 NHL Entry Draft, selected in the fifth round as the 88th overall pick.
Entering the league, Kocur quickly established himself as a formidable enforcer, a role that would define much of his career. His physicality and willingness to stand up for his teammates made him an invaluable asset to the teams he played for.
The Detroit Red Wings Era
Kocur began his NHL career with the Detroit Red Wings in the 1984-1985 season. His impact was immediate, as he quickly became known for his hard-hitting style and ability to protect his teammates. During his time with the Red Wings, Kocur formed a part of the infamous “Bruise Brothers” duo alongside Bob Probert. Together, they were a feared pair on the ice, known for their aggressive tactics and numerous fights.
Joe Kocur Stats with the Red Wings
- Games Played: 446
- Goals: 66
- Assists: 57
- Points: 123
- Penalty Minutes: 1,963
Kocur’s time with the Red Wings was marked by significant achievements, including helping the team reach the playoffs multiple times. His role as an enforcer was crucial in maintaining team morale and ensuring the Red Wings remained a competitive force in the NHL.
Transition to the New York Rangers
In 1990, Kocur was traded to the New York Rangers. This transition marked a new chapter in his career, where he continued to be a dominant physical presence on the ice. With the Rangers, Kocur’s role evolved slightly as he contributed both offensively and defensively.
Joe Kocur Stats with the Rangers
- Games Played: 278
- Goals: 17
- Assists: 20
- Points: 37
- Penalty Minutes: 891
During his tenure with the Rangers, Kocur played a vital role in the team’s success, including their memorable run to the Stanley Cup Finals in 1994. The Rangers’ victory in the finals gave Kocur his first Stanley Cup Championship, a crowning achievement in his NHL career.
Return to Detroit and Continued Success
Kocur’s journey came full circle when he returned to the Detroit Red Wings in 1996. This reunion was marked by even greater success as the Red Wings were in the midst of building a dynasty. Kocur contributed to the team’s back-to-back Stanley Cup victories in 1997 and 1998, cementing his legacy as a key player in one of hockey’s most storied franchises.
Joe Kocur Stats in His Second Stint with the Red Wings
- Games Played: 161
- Goals: 6
- Assists: 7
- Points: 13
- Penalty Minutes: 354
Kocur’s role as an enforcer remained crucial, but his veteran presence and leadership also became invaluable to the Red Wings’ younger players. His ability to mentor and guide teammates contributed to the team’s harmonious and competitive atmosphere.
Legacy and Impact
Joe Kocur retired from professional hockey in 1999, leaving behind a legacy of toughness, team spirit, and dedication to the sport. Over his NHL career, Kocur amassed 2,519 penalty minutes, highlighting his role as one of the most formidable enforcers in the league’s history.
Beyond his on-ice contributions, Kocur has remained involved in the hockey community through charity work and youth hockey initiatives. His efforts off the ice have further cemented his status as a respected figure in the world of hockey.
Conclusion
Joe Kocur’s NHL career is a testament to the impact an enforcer can have on the game of hockey. His ability to protect his teammates, combined with his physical prowess and commitment to the sport, made him a beloved figure among fans and peers alike. From his beginnings in Saskatchewan to his multiple Stanley Cup victories, Kocur’s journey through the NHL is a story of resilience and success.
As we look back on Joe Kocur’s career, it is clear that his contributions to the teams he played for and the sport as a whole will not be forgotten. His legacy serves as an inspiration to aspiring hockey players and a reminder of the enduring spirit of the game.