Canadian · Victoria Mines, Ontario · Born 21 August 1912 · Died 1995-05-17Toe Blake was a Hall of Fame Canadian left winger who won three Stanley Cups as a player before becoming one of the most successful head coaches in NHL history.
Hector Blake was born in Victoria Mines, Ontario in 1912. His nickname Toe came from a childhood mispronunciation of his middle name. He played 13 NHL seasons — winning the Hart Trophy as MVP in 1938, the Art Ross Trophy as scoring champion in 1939 and two Stanley Cup championships as a player (1944, 1946) as part of the Punch Line alongside Maurice Richard and Elmer Lach. He was inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 1966. He became head coach of the Montreal Canadiens in 1955 and won eight Stanley Cup championships as a coach (1956, 1957, 1958, 1959, 1960, 1965, 1966, 1968) — the most by any coach in NHL history. His combined 11 Stanley Cup connections as player and coach represent the most in hockey history. His coaching dynasty — five consecutive championships from 1956 to 1960 — is the most dominant run in the sport's history. He was the first person to win the Stanley Cup more than five times in any combination of roles.
Hall of Fame left winger and later legendary Canadiens head coach
How They Played
Blake was a skilled left winger known for his excellent passing ability and hockey intelligence. He possessed strong leadership qualities on the ice and was an effective scorer who could create opportunities for his linemates.
Lasting Impact
Blake's coaching success with the Montreal Canadiens established him as one of the greatest coaches in NHL history, particularly during the team's dynasty years of the 1950s and 1960s.
Career Honours
- 3x Stanley Cup as player
- Hart Trophy 1938-39
- Art Ross Trophy 1938-39
- Lady Byng Trophy 1946
| Team | Period | GP |
|---|---|---|
| Montreal Maroons | 1935–1938 | — |
| Montreal Canadiens | 1932–1935 | — |
Canadian Athletes