Pat LaFontaine Quotes
- Ice hockey player
- USA
- 1965
Pat LaFontaine is a retired professional ice hockey player and philanthropist. He was born on February 22, 1965, in St. Louis, Missouri. LaFontaine played in the National Hockey League (NHL) for 15 seasons, primarily with the New York Islanders and Buffalo Sabres. He was known for his exceptional sp…Read More
Pat LaFontaine is a retired professional ice hockey player and philanthropist. He was born on February 22, 1965, in St. Louis, Missouri. LaFontaine played in the National Hockey League (NHL) for 15 seasons, primarily with the New York Islanders and Buffalo Sabres. He was known for his exceptional speed, skill, and leadership on the ice. LaFontaine was a six-time NHL All-Star and was inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 2003. After his retirement, he became a successful businessman and dedicated his time to various charitable causes, including his own foundation, Companions in Courage, which helps children in hospitals. LaFontaine’s notable works include his impressive NHL career, his philanthropy, and his induction into the Hockey Hall of Fame.Read Less
Pat LaFontaine is a retired professional ice hockey player and philanthropist. He was born on February 22, 1965, in St. Louis, Missouri. LaFontaine played in the National Hockey League (NHL) for 15 seasons, primarily with the New York Islanders and Buffalo Sabres. He was known for his exceptional speed, skill, and leadership on the ice. LaFontaine was a six-time NHL All-Star and was inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 2003. After his retirement, he became a successful businessman and dedicated his time to various charitable causes, including his own foundation, Companions in Courage, which helps children in hospitals. LaFontaine’s notable works include his impressive NHL career, his philanthropy, and his induction into the Hockey Hall of Fame.
Pat LaFontaine Career Highlights
- Drafted 3rd overall by the New York Islanders in the 1983 NHL Entry Draft
- Played 15 seasons in the NHL, primarily with the New York Islanders and Buffalo Sabres
- Scored 468 goals and 545 assists for a total of 1,013 points in 865 regular season games
- Named to the NHL All-Star Team six times
- Won the Bill Masterton Memorial Trophy in 1995 for perseverance, sportsmanship, and dedication to hockey
- Inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 2003
Key Contributions by Pat LaFontaine
- LaFontaine was known for his exceptional speed, agility, and playmaking abilities on the ice. He was a skilled center who could both score and set up his teammates for goals.
- He played a crucial role in the New York Islanders’ four consecutive Stanley Cup wins from 1980-1983, scoring 17 points in 19 playoff games during their 1983 championship run.
- In 1992, LaFontaine was traded to the Buffalo Sabres, where he continued to excel and became the team’s captain. He led the Sabres to the playoffs in each of his six seasons with the team.
- LaFontaine was also a key player for Team USA in international competitions, representing his country in the 1984 and 1998 Winter Olympics, as well as the 1987 and 1991 Canada Cups.
What Sets Pat LaFontaine Apart
- Despite facing numerous injuries throughout his career, including multiple concussions, LaFontaine persevered and continued to play at a high level. He was known for his determination and resilience, earning him the nickname “The Comeback Kid.”
- LaFontaine was not only a talented player on the ice, but also a respected leader and role model off the ice. He was heavily involved in charitable work and was known for his kindness and generosity towards others.
- In addition to his successful hockey career, LaFontaine also co-founded the Companions in Courage Foundation, which builds interactive playrooms in children’s hospitals to help improve the quality of life for young patients.
Takeaways
- Pat LaFontaine’s career highlights and key contributions solidify his place as one of the greatest players in NHL history. His skill, leadership, and perseverance make him a role model for aspiring hockey players.
- LaFontaine’s dedication to giving back to his community and helping others, both during and after his hockey career, sets him apart as a compassionate and selfless individual.
- His story serves as a reminder of the importance of determination, resilience, and using one’s platform for good. Pat LaFontaine’s impact on and off the ice will continue to inspire future generations.