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The 1978-1979 Boston Bruins and the Most Famous Penalty in Hockey History

Jim Cox

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Published in Too Many Men On The Ice: The 1978 1979 Boston Bruins And The Most Famous Penalty In Hockey History

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The Bruins' success was due in large part to the play of their top line, which featured Hall of Famers Bobby Orr, Phil Esposito, and Brad Park. Orr was the reigning Norris Trophy winner and was considered to be the best defenseman in the world. Esposito was a six-time scoring champion and was one of the most dangerous goal scorers in the NHL. Park was a three-time Stanley Cup champion and was one of the best all-around defensemen in the league.

One of the most memorable moments of the Bruins' season came in Game 4 of the Stanley Cup Finals. With the Bruins leading 3-1, Orr was penalized for boarding Rangers forward Ron Duguay. The penalty was controversial, as many felt that it was not a boarding penalty. However, the referees upheld the call, and Orr was sent to the penalty box.

While Orr was serving his penalty, the Rangers scored two goals to tie the game. The Bruins were able to regain the lead, but the Rangers eventually tied the game again and sent it to overtime. In overtime, the Rangers scored the game-winning goal to win the game and force a Game 5.

Too Many Men on the Ice: The 1978-1979 Boston Bruins and the Most Famous Penalty in Hockey History

by John G. Robertson

4.5 out of 5

Language	:	English
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Print length	:	213 pages

The penalty on Orr is still considered to be one of the most controversial penalties in NHL history. Some believe that it was a legitimate penalty, while others believe that it was a bad call. Regardless of whether or not it was a legitimate penalty, it is clear that it had a major impact on the outcome of Game 4.

The Bruins went on to win Game 5 and the Stanley Cup, but the penalty on Orr remains a controversial moment in NHL history.

The Aftermath of the Penalty

The penalty on Orr had a lasting impact on the Bruins and the NHL. The Bruins went on to win the Stanley Cup, but the penalty was a major talking point throughout the playoffs. The controversy surrounding the penalty led the NHL to make changes to the way that boarding penalties are called.

The penalty also had a significant impact on Orr's career. Orr was never the same player after the penalty. He was plagued by injuries and never regained his previous form. He retired from the NHL in 1980 at the age of 33.

The Legacy of the Penalty

The penalty on Orr is still considered to be one of the most controversial penalties in NHL history. It is a reminder of the thin line between a clean hit and a boarding penalty. It is also a reminder of the impact that one penalty can have on a game, a series, and a career.

The penalty on Orr is a part of hockey history. It is a moment that will be debated for years to come.

Too Many Men on the Ice: The 1978-1979 Boston Bruins and the Most Famous Penalty in Hockey History

by John G. Robertson

4.5 out of 5