MONTREAL — In a thunderous announcement that echoed across the hockey world, the NHL has officially named Montreal Canadiens legend Maurice “Rocket” Richard as the greatest player in the history of the league. The declaration was made during a special centennial event held at the Hockey Hall of Fame, culminating decades of debate and sealing the legacy of a man whose name became synonymous with passion, excellence, and fire.
In front of a roaring crowd filled with former players, league executives, historians, and fans from across the globe, Commissioner Gary Bettman unveiled a plaque commemorating Richard’s impact on the game, stating, “There has never been another player who changed the game the way Maurice Richard did. His spirit, his scoring, and his influence on both hockey and society mark him as the most iconic figure in NHL history.”
Born in Montreal in 1921, Maurice Richard wore the Canadiens sweater from 1942 to 1960, becoming the first player in league history to score 50 goals in 50 games—a feat so mythic it altered the trajectory of hockey forever. Over 18 seasons, he amassed 544 career goals, led the Canadiens to eight Stanley Cup victories, and ignited the passion of an entire nation.
But Richard’s legacy went far beyond his numbers. His fiery competitiveness, undying loyalty to Montreal, and role as a cultural symbol of French-Canadian pride made him a beacon in Quebec during a time of immense social change. The infamous “Richard Riot” in 1955, sparked by his suspension, is widely considered one of the events that catalyzed the Quiet Revolution in Quebec.
The announcement today recognized not only Richard’s dominance as an athlete but his larger-than-life presence as a social icon. Canadiens captain Nick Suzuki, present at the ceremony, described the moment as “a tribute to every single player who ever laced up skates dreaming of being like Rocket.”
“I grew up hearing stories of Maurice Richard from my grandfather,” Suzuki said. “Today, he became more than a legend—he became the standard.”
Even Wayne Gretzky, long considered the greatest by many, offered his full endorsement of the decision. “Rocket played in an era of brutal intensity, with fewer games, fewer resources, and more pressure. He defined the greatness we all chase. He deserves this more than anyone,” Gretzky said in a special video tribute.
Following the announcement, fans flooded downtown Montreal, waving vintage No. 9 jerseys, holding signs, and singing renditions of “Go Habs Go” as the Canadiens hoisted a commemorative banner in Richard’s honor at the Bell Centre. Flags flew at half-mast at Place des Canadiens, a symbolic gesture of reflection and pride.
This historic coronation does more than honor a singular athlete—it brings a sense of full-circle closure to generations of fans who watched Richard battle with fury and finesse. Today, the Rocket officially becomes the eternal flame of the NHL, burning brighter than ever.