There is no doubt that the Montreal Canadiens are the most iconic franchise in the hockey world. Having won 24 Stanley Cups in its 114 years of existence helped the franchise reach its status. Those Cups are thanks to the efforts of the star players including the 51 Hockey Hall of Fame (HHOF) inductees who have worn “le Tricolore”.
This list is the top goal scorers in Canadiens history. A list spanning the entire 114 years, covering the entire history of the NHL and National Hockey Association (NHA), who have been instrumental in building this franchise’s historical Championship pedigree.
1. Maurice Richard – 544 Goals
Maurice “Rocket” Richard is perhaps the most popular and inspirational player to have ever worn the Bleu Blanc et Rouge. His career lasted 18 seasons, all with the Canadiens, beginning in 1942, where he scored 544 goals in 978 games. No other player has scored more goals in a Habs uniform. Richard is also the first player in NHL history to score 50 goals in 50 games, setting a standard for excellence in scoring that few have been able to match. He was also the first NHL player to score 500 goals in a career. His fiery style of play made him an icon to the Canadiens.
He was also an offensive leader in the playoffs as well, scoring 82 goals in 133 games. One goal was the 1956 Cup-winning goal in Game 5 versus the Detroit Red Wings, winning the first of five consecutive Stanley Cups. He provided years of excellence including eight Stanley Cups. His arrival to the Canadiens rekindled the love affair between the team and the fans in Montreal. Richard and his intense style of play still inspire hockey fans to this day.
Related: Maurie Richard – The Rocket’s Legacy Lives on in the NHL
If there is still any remaining doubt as to why he heads this exalted list, one only has to look at the NHL Awards being handed out today. The trophy for the league’s top goal scorer is named after Richard, one of the NHL’s greatest goal scorers of all-time…
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