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Mike Bossy, in my mind, will always be Mr. Islander. He will always be remembered for what he did on the ice or off the ice. The inadequacy of the English language cannot describe what he meant to the organization and city of New York.
One of my fondest memories is that of Mike Bossy being part of one of the greatest NHL lines ever. Bossy was the executioner, putting the puck in the net. Bossy, Trottier, and Gillies—the magic those three putting plays together.
Mike Bossy loved the fans and he was always very appreciative of them. In return, he was a fan favourite; he was family to so many Isles fans.
Mike Bossy started his first full season in the NHL in 1977, ripping 53 goals and 38 assists, and 91 points. He was a phenomenon that every team tried to stop, but none could. Of course, there is that 50 goals in 50 games thing.
Everyone used to make fun of the Lady Byng Trophy. The Lady Byng Trophy is awarded to the most sportsmanlike player. So, needless to say, Dave "the Hammer" Shultz never won the trophy for obvious reasons. But Bossy had a different attitude about taking pride in the way he played, never leaving his team shorthanded when they didn't need to. He won the Lady Byng Trophy three times.
Bossy was one of the hottest snipers in the game. His one-timers gave goalies nightmares. Mike (Mr. Bossy to me) collected nine straight 50-goal seasons. If it weren't for the severe back injury that ended his career, he would have made it ten. Who knows how many 50-goal seasons he would have had if he remained healthy. Mike's best season was 78-79, scoring 69 goals and 57 assists for a total of 126 points.
Bossy loved pressure and received the Conn Smythe Trophy in 1982.
In his career, Mike Bossy collected four Stanley cup rings. Of course, Bossy would say it's a team accomplishment, not an individual award.
The man, the legend, Mr. Mike Bossy.
