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Making a Case for Dave Andreychuk and the Hockey Hall of Fame

November 13, 2012, 3:49 PM ET [11 Comments]
Michael Stuart
Ottawa Senators Blogger • RSSArchiveCONTACT
Few moments in Tampa Bay Lightning history have generated the same level of joy, excitement and passion as the Stanley Cup victory in 2004. In fact, it could be argued that the only moment in franchise history that even comes close to it is the birth of the team twenty years ago.

When thinking of the Lightning’s historic run, it’s hard to ignore the monumental impact Dave Andreychuk had on the organization, teammates and community. In his short time in Tampa, Andreychuk exemplified everything it could ever mean to be a Bolt. Simply put, he deserves to be in the Hockey Hall of Fame.

Recall that in 2001, Andreychuk signed with the Lightning when he had better offers from better teams on the table. He made a commitment to our team, to our city and to our fans. That statement there really sums up everything Dave is about, even to this day. He will forever be a member of the Tampa Bay Lightning family.

With his unique leadership abilities, Andreychuk transformed the Lightning from a bottom feeding cellar-dweller to Stanley Cup champion. Said transformation did not take place over night; he worked hard, put in time and really focused on changing the culture of losing that was plaguing the Lightning. It was for this reason that then coach John Tortorella named Dave Andreychuk captain of the team. That decision, arguably, was the best decision made in Tampa Bay Lightning history.

In 2003-04, after a 21 goal season, Andreychuk led the Lightning past the Calgary Flames to capture Lord Stanley’s cup. His work in Tampa was finally complete; all the hard work, effort, sweat, tears and blood had paid off. After a 22 year career, he could finally be call himself a Stanley Cup champion. The lasting impact of Dave’s contribution to hockey in Tampa will never be forgotten.

Of course, Lightning fans near and far are familiar with Andreychuk’s work in the Tampa Bay community. However, the Hockey Hall of Fame looks at an entire career when making selections for each year’s class.

With 1338 points in 1639 games, Dave Andreychuk is one of the highest scoring wingers in the NHL history. His contribution on the power-play throughout his career produced 274 goals, a number that is unmatched to this day. He is an NHL all-star, a community hero and one of the nicest big guys to ever suit up in the league. However, the number that sticks out most is the fact that he is 14th on the all-time goal scoring list with 640 career tallies.

Given all that, and the fact that he is a Stanley Cup winning captain at the age of 40, Dave Andreychuk deserves to one day be inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame. His work in Tampa brings back so many fond memories for those who consider themselves a part of Bolts Nation, but it’s important to remember all the great things he did outside of Tampa as well. The day he is inducted into “the Hall” will be a great day for hockey in Tampa and the state of Florida. We’re all proud of you, Dave, and honored that you call Tampa Bay home.

As always, thanks for reading.

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