July 2nd has been a notable day in hockey history, filled with significant player signings, coaching appointments, and even the formation of hockey associations.
On July 2, 1969, the Pittsburgh Penguins appointed Red Kelly as their new head coach, marking only the second coach in the team's history. Kelly's impact was immediate, leading the Penguins to their first-ever Stanley Cup playoff appearance in the 1969-70 season. The team achieved their first playoff series win by sweeping the Oakland Seals in the opening round. Although they were eventually defeated by the St. Louis Blues in the Stanley Cup Semifinals, Kelly brought the Penguins back to the playoffs in 1972.
The free agency period often sees significant player movement, and July 2nd has been no exception. July 2, 2017, marked the end of an era when Patrick Marleau signed a three-year contract with the Toronto Maple Leafs. Marleau had spent 19 seasons with the San Jose Sharks, becoming their all-time leader in games played (1,493), goals (508), and points (1,082). After two seasons with the Maple Leafs, he was traded to the Carolina Hurricanes, who bought out the final year of his contract.
Hall of Fame goaltender Ed Belfour found new homes on July 2nd on two occasions. In 1997, he signed with the Dallas Stars, and five years later, in 2002, he joined the Toronto Maple Leafs. Similarly, on July 2, 2002, Curtis Joseph signed with the Detroit Red Wings after spending the previous three seasons with the Maple Leafs. That same day, Martin Gelinas, who would become an important player for Calgary's 2004 Stanley Cup Final run, signed with the Calgary Flames. Luc Robitaille, a future Hall of Famer, signed with the Detroit Red Wings on July 2, 2001. He played two seasons with the Red Wings, scoring 41 goals and 81 points in 162 games.
The growth of hockey isn't limited to the NHL. On July 2, 1910, the Australian Women's Hockey Association was formed and affiliated with the All England Women's Hockey Association. This was a crucial step in developing women's hockey in Australia, leading to the selection of the first All Australian women's hockey team in 1914.
July 2nd has also seen its share of player milestones and other interesting transactions. These events, while perhaps not as prominent as the major signings or coaching changes, contribute to the rich tapestry of hockey history.
