The greatest American-born defenceman in NHL history — 1,232 career points from the blue line.
Philip Francis Housley was born in St. Paul, Minnesota in 1964. Buffalo Sabres selected him sixth overall in the 1982 NHL Draft — directly from high school, making him one of the youngest players ever selected. His 21-season career produced 338 goals and 894 assists for 1,232 career points — the most by an American-born player who was primarily a defenceman. He was inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 2004 and named one of the 100 Greatest NHL Players in 2017. He was selected to seven All-Star games. He accumulated 1,232 points without ever winning a Stanley Cup — one of the highest individual career totals by someone who never won the championship. His skating ability was described as among the finest in the NHL throughout his career — his edge work and acceleration from a standing position were considered exceptional. He represented the USA in multiple Olympics and World Championships — his international career contributions were as significant as his NHL production.
Hall of Fame (2004)
Career Honours
- Hall of Fame (2004)
- NHL 100 Greatest Players
- 1,232 career points