“IMPRESSIVE” Canada’s Summit Series Heroes Honored with the NHL Alumni Association’s 2025 Keith Magnuson “Man of the Year” Award
Tonight, at the Bell Centre in Montreal, a special celebration took place as members of Canada’s iconic 1972 Summit Series team were honored with the NHL Alumni Association’s prestigious 2025 Keith Magnuson “Man of the Year” award.
This esteemed recognition was bestowed upon the entire Summit Series squad for their contributions both on and off the ice. Among the notable team members present were hockey legends Paul Henderson, Ken Dryden, Serge Savard, and Yvan Cournoyer.
The 1972 Summit Series remains one of the most unforgettable moments in Canadian hockey history. For many, the drama and intensity of the eight-game series against the Soviet Union was a defining event in the sport, showcasing not only incredible athleticism but also immense national pride.
The series was a microcosm of the Cold War era, and for Canadians, it was more than just a hockey series—it was a battle for supremacy between two competing ideologies.
Among the heroes of that memorable series, Paul Henderson stands out as the man who scored the series-winning goal in the final moments of Game 8. His historic goal has been etched into the annals of Canadian sports history, a moment still celebrated by fans of the game to this day.
Ken Dryden, the brilliant goaltender who played a pivotal role throughout the series, was a force between the pipes, earning a reputation as one of the greatest netminders in the sport.
Serge Savard and Yvan Cournoyer, both key defensive players and forwards, made critical contributions to Canada’s victory with their leadership, skills, and tenacity.
While the Summit Series solidified the team’s place in history, their legacy extends beyond their on-ice accomplishments. Many of these players have remained involved in the game, contributing to the sport’s development and giving back to the hockey community.
The NHL Alumni Association’s Keith Magnuson award is a recognition of these contributions, celebrating the players not just for their athletic achievements but for their continued impact on the sport.
The “Man of the Year” award, named after the late Keith Magnuson—a former NHL defenseman and beloved member of the hockey community—recognizes those who exemplify integrity, leadership, and community involvement.
The Summit Series team members certainly embody these qualities, having remained steadfast in their dedication to the game, their teams, and their communities.
As they gathered at the Bell Centre, the members of Canada’s 1972 Summit Series team received a standing ovation from fans, a reminder of the lasting impact they have had on the sport of hockey.
Tonight’s recognition is a fitting tribute to their exceptional careers, and to the indelible mark they left on Canada’s hockey history.