One of the greatest tough men in pro hockey history has been remembered once again in very fitting fashion. Former Chicago Blackhawks and Detroit Red Wings star Bob Probert had his ashes spread by his wife, Dani in the penalty box this past Sunday during the Wing’s final game in the famed Joe Louis Arena. Probert retired from the NHL with the Hawks in 2002, and passed away from a heart attack in 2010. Probert became known as one of the most intimidating enforcers in NHL history, logging 3,300 minutes in penalty boxes in his 16 season career in the league. With fighting in pro hockey not nearly as common as it once was, Probert was a regular guardian for his team and became feared for his ability to deck out opponents night after night.
“I don’t think there is any doubt, in his era he came as tough as there was,” said Blackhawks teammate Eddie Olczyk in a 2010 interview with NHL.com. “He was tough as nails. You stayed well clear of him when he was on the ice and when you were on his team you knew he had your back. He knew his role and he was tough. He was tough.”
The Blackhawks start another campaign for the Stanley Cup on Thursday against the Nashville Predators in the first round of the playoffs.