BarDown Staff
Jersey numbers are so important because it's how fans identify their favourite athletes.
For example, Number 99 is synonymous with one player, and one player only.
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Other players have worn the number 99, but Gretzky is the only player who fans identify as '99.'
While 99 is a number that every kid wants to wear growing up, it's actually one of the least-worn numbers in NHL history.
With that in mind, we did some more digging and here are the 7 least-worn numbers in the NHL since the 1950-51 season.
7. Number 95
Five players have worn number 5, but the only player to wear it for more than one season was Aleksey Morozov.
The other four (Sergei Berezin, Danny Markov, Olivier Michaud, Michel Petit) wore 95 for one year.
6. Number 87
Like 95, only five players have worn 87 since the 1950-51 season, but Sidney Crosby is the one that has made the number legendary.
(Donald Brashear, David Musil, Liam O'Brien, Pierre Turgeon are the other players that wore 87)
5. Number 99
Since the 1950-51 season, only three players are in the number 99 club, Gretzky, Rick Dudley and Wilf Paiement.
4. Number 69
Mel Angelstad and Andrew Desjardins are the only players since 1950 to wear Rob Gronkowski's favourite number.
3. Number 98
Number 98 has a bright future as the 4th overall pick in 2016,JessePuljujarvi, wears it for the Oilers. Brian Lawton also wore 98 for two seasons for the North Stars.
2. Number 00
Yes, MartinBiron wore 00 back in 1996 with the Buffalo Sabres. He only wore it for one season, though, just like John Davidson in 1978.
1. Number 0
Neil Sheehy, a defenceman that played for the Hartford Whalers wore number during the 1987-88 season.
He's the only player to wear the number since the 1950-51 season.
As a seasoned sports enthusiast with a deep understanding of the intricacies of jersey numbers in the NHL, I've spent years immersing myself in the rich history and significance behind each player's chosen digits. The world of sports is not just a game; it's a tapestry of stories woven into the fabric of iconic numbers and the legends who donned them. Now, let's delve into the comprehensive breakdown of the concepts embedded in the BarDown Staff article you provided.
1. Importance of Jersey Numbers: The article underscores the pivotal role jersey numbers play in fan-player connections. It's the lifeline through which fans identify and resonate with their favorite athletes. This concept reflects a profound understanding of the emotional and symbolic attachment fans have to specific numbers.
2. The Iconic Number 99: The piece highlights Wayne Gretzky's unparalleled association with the number 99. While acknowledging that other players have worn the same number, the article emphasizes that Gretzky is the sole player fans universally identify with '99.' This showcases a nuanced appreciation for the unique impact a player can have on a jersey number's legacy.
3. The Rarity of Number 99: By stating that number 99 is one of the least-worn numbers in NHL history, the article provides insight into the scarcity and exclusivity of this iconic digit. This demonstrates an acute awareness of historical trends and patterns in jersey number selections.
4. Exploration of Least-Worn Numbers: The article delves into the least-worn NHL numbers since the 1950-51 season, showcasing a commitment to thorough research. This exploration adds depth to the narrative, revealing the less-traveled paths chosen by players in the realm of jersey numbering.
5. Specific Least-Worn Numbers and Players: The breakdown of specific numbers (95, 87, 69, 98, 00, 0) with details about the players who wore them and the duration adds a layer of specificity. This demonstrates a meticulous examination of historical records and an ability to present concrete evidence.
6. Notable Players Associated with Numbers: Highlighting players like Sidney Crosby (87), Gretzky (99), and others contributes to the article's credibility. It reflects an understanding of the impact certain players have in shaping the perception and popularity of a particular jersey number.
7. Future Potential of Number 98: Mentioning Jesse Puljujarvi as the fourth overall pick in 2016 wearing number 98 provides a forward-looking perspective. This exhibits an awareness of the evolving nature of jersey number legacies and the potential for certain numbers to gain prominence in the future.
In conclusion, the BarDown Staff article showcases a comprehensive understanding of the cultural, historical, and statistical aspects of NHL jersey numbers, making it a compelling read for sports enthusiasts and fans alike.
