June 30th has been a significant date in hockey history, marked by franchise relocations, impactful trades, and career milestones. Here's a look back at some of the key events that occurred on this day:
One of the most notable events on June 30th is the official naming of the New Jersey Devils in 1982. The franchise, which had previously been the Colorado Rockies and the Kansas City Scouts, was struggling before moving to New Jersey. After a fan ballot, the team was named the "Devils" in homage to the legend of the Jersey Devil. Other names considered were the "Blades", the "Americans" and the "Meadowlanders". The relocation was approved after John McMullen, the owner, paid over $20 million in territorial compensation fees because of the New York Rangers, the New York Islanders, and the Philadelphia Flyers.
Another significant moment occurred on June 30, 1993, when the Detroit Red Wings acquired Kris Draper from the Winnipeg Jets for a mere "future considerations". Those considerations turned out to be exactly one dollar. Draper went on to become a key player for the Red Wings, playing over 1,000 games and winning four Stanley Cups. He also won the Frank J. Selke Trophy in 2004 as the league's best defensive forward.
Also on June 30, 1993, Emile Francis, a Hall of Fame inductee, resigned from his position as president of the Hartford Whalers, concluding his 47-year career in professional hockey. Francis had a long career as a goaltender, coach, and general manager. He played goal for the Black Hawks and Rangers from 1946 to 1960. After his playing career, Francis coached the Guelph Royals, the New York Rangers, and the St. Louis Blues. He also served as the GM and executive VP for the Blues before joining the Whalers.
The 1992 NHL Entry Draft saw Eric Lindros officially traded to the Philadelphia Flyers on June 30th after an arbitrator's decision. The Quebec Nordiques made a deal with both the Flyers and the New York Rangers. Ultimately, the arbitrator ruled in favor of the Flyers.
The NHL Entry Draft also took place on June 30, 2013, in Newark, New Jersey, where the Colorado Avalanche selected Nathan MacKinnon with the first overall pick. MacKinnon immediately joined the Avalanche lineup and won the Calder Trophy as the league's top rookie.
Doug Bentley's contract was purchased by the New York Rangers from the Chicago Blackhawks on June 30, 1953. The future Hall of Famer had a goal and three assists in his debut with the team.