Phil Housley, born on September 9, 1964 in South St. Paul, Minnesota, was destined for a career in hockey from a young age. Growing up in a hockey-loving family, he started playing the sport at a very young age and quickly excelled in the local leagues. Housley's talent on the ice caught the attention of scouts, and he was eventually drafted 6th overall by the Buffalo Sabres in the 1982 NHL Entry Draft.
Straight out of high school, Housley made his debut with the Sabres and immediately made an impact. He impressed fans and critics alike with his speed, skill, and hockey IQ, finishing second in Rookie-of-the-Year voting in his first season. Housley's ability to move the puck efficiently and contribute on the offensive end quickly established him as one of the most promising young defensemen in the league.
Throughout his 21-year career in the NHL, Housley played for several teams, including the Winnipeg Jets, St. Louis Blues, Calgary Flames, New Jersey Devils, Washington Capitals, Chicago Blackhawks, and Toronto Maple Leafs. Despite his impressive individual accomplishments, including seven All-Star Game selections and ranking as one of the highest-scoring defensemen in NHL history, Housley's career was marked by the unfortunate distinction of never winning a Stanley Cup.
Despite this, Housley's impact on the ice was undeniable. He set numerous records and milestones throughout his career, including becoming the highest-scoring American-born defenseman in NHL history and earning a spot in the Hockey Hall of Fame in 2015. His offensive prowess, vision, and playmaking ability revolutionized the way defensemen played the game, paving the way for future generations of puck-moving blueliners.
Off the ice, Housley found love and support in his family. His wife, Karin, was a prominent figure in the community, hosting her own radio show on a local A.M. station. Together, they raised their children and navigated the ups and downs of life in the spotlight.
Despite retiring from professional hockey, Housley continues to have a lasting impact on the sport. He has transitioned into coaching, using his expertise and knowledge to mentor young players and help develop the next wave of talent. Housley's dedication to the game and passion for hockey shines through in everything he does, leaving a lasting legacy in the hearts of hockey fans everywhere.
During his time with the Calgary Flames, Housley had the opportunity to play alongside scoring champion Jarome Iginla. The two formed a formidable duo on the ice, combining their skills and hockey instincts to create scoring opportunities and lead their team to success. Their partnership exemplified the importance of teamwork and collaboration in achieving success in the NHL.