Yesterday the hockey world received some shocking news: Bob Probert had died at the young age of 45. Now, Probert was never a Leaf, but he sure resonates to Leaf fans. He played on two bitter rivals in the Norris Division - the Red Wings and the Blackhawks. From our own Wendel Clark:
"Probert was a guy respected throughout the league," said former Leaf captain Wendel Clark, who had his run-ins with Probert through parallel careers. "It was how he played. The great thing about Bob is how he played, he improved his game. He became more than just a fighter. He scored. He played a regular shift. He did a lot of things.
"He was tough guy who played smart hockey." - Toronto Star
When a tough opponent like Wendel pays you respect, you know you've earned it. I've split up today's links into to: Probert and non-Probert, so that those of you who want to learn about him, as I did last night, can get a sampling of some of the best stories written upon his death. Condolences to his family, and thanks to a player whose life was not as easy as most, but who made an incredible impression on everyone he played with, and against. Feel free to share your favourite memories in the comments, or any stories I have missed that are worthwhile.
RIP Bob Probert.
Probert Links:
- Bob Probert Dead At 45
Joe Pelltier writes about Bob Probert on Greatest Hockey Legends.com - Bob Probert's tough story ended far too soon
Mitch Albom with a touching story about Probert. - Bob Probert vs Wendel Clark = Legendary
Vintage Leafs gives us a special post in honour of Probert's passing. - Bob Probert, a Life of Violence, Sadness
An article from Joe Lapointe on the ups and downs of Probert's career and life. - One tough story
Simmons (yes, Steve) with a great article on Probert. Former NHL tough guy Bob Probert dead at age 45
Duhatschek's article - the most comprehensive piece out there.
Non-Probert:
- Brian Burke Honours Late Son with Pride
Torontoist brings us more information about Burke marching in the Pride Parade this past weekend. - Mike Van Ryn's New Plans
Loser Domi gives us the run down on what Mike Van Ryn plans to do with his time off. - What’s the Deal With Tomas Kaberle?
Yakov Mironov with a Kaberle post over on LeafsHQ. - What’s in a Nickname? The Origins of All 30 NHL Team Names
Perusing mental floss yesterday, I came across this beauty from the archives. - NHLPA Media Releases
The NHLPA released the list of players who opted for arbitration yesterday. No Leafs on here, but a few interesting names. - A New Week, Same Speculation
Yakov Mironov on what we're speculating about this week... which is all the same stuff we speculated on last week. - I would just like to say...
LD wants us to know how good looking Mike Komisarek is. - Waiting for the next Leaf move; Stunned that Kovalchuk stays with the Devils- stunned they want him
VIntage Leaf Memories on the Leafs roster turnover since last season and musings on Kovalchuk. - The Pre-Game Ceremonies MLSE Should Be Planning
I missed it yesterday, but here's a great article from Fifty Mission Cap.
