The Hockey Legacy of Rick Middleton
Born in Toronto in 1953, Rick Middleton's love for hockey began on frozen ponds, where he honed the stickhandling magic that would later bewilder NHL defenders. Drafted by the New York Rangers in 1973, his early career was a slow burn until a trade to Boston in 1976 ignited his star potential. Bruins fans quickly embraced his effortless style, dubbing him 'Nifty' for his ability to slip past opponents like a ghost.
Middleton's peak came in the early 1980s, where he formed the 'Lunch Pail AC' line with Wayne Cashman and Steve Kasper—a trio celebrated for balancing grit and grace. His 1981-82 season was a masterpiece: 51 goals, 44 assists, and a +51 rating, all while making defense look optional. One unforgettable moment? His overtime goal in Game 4 of the 1983 Adams Division Finals, where he deked two defenders and roofed a backhand past Montreal’s Richard Sevigny, silencing the Forum crowd.
After retiring in 1988, Middleton transitioned seamlessly into broadcasting and coaching, mentoring young players with the same patience he once showed rookies in the Bruins’ locker room. His #16 jersey hangs in the TD Garden rafters, a tribute to a player who redefined elegance on ice. Today, he remains a fixture at Bruins alumni events, swapping stories about the 'Big Bad Bruins' era with equal parts humility and humor.
- The Trade That Changed Everything: Boston acquired Middleton from the Rangers for Ken Hodge in 1976—a steal that reshaped both franchises.
- 1981 Canada Cup Heroics: Scored the tournament-clinching goal against the USSR, showcasing his clutch gene on hockey’s biggest stage.
- 500 Career Goals: Hit the milestone in 1987 with a signature wrister, becoming one of just 20 players to do so at the time.
- King of the Shootout: Unofficially dominated pre-game skills competitions, once scoring 10 straight goals in a 1985 exhibition.
- Philanthropy: Founded the 'Middleton Fishing Derby,' blending his love of angling with charity work for kids.