The Chicago Blackhawks spent much of the 70's mired in mediocrity. The 80's brought new hope in the form of players such as Denis Savard, Darryl Sutter and Steve Larmer.
Larmer was an iron man, playing in a record 884 consecutive games with one team (and the 3rd longest consecutive games streak in NHL history). Larmer was also a scorer, notching 1012 points in his career (averaging just over 1 point per game played).
Larmer and his brother Jeff joined a long line of brother combos who played together with the Blackhawks (such as the Hull's, the Sutter's, the Maki's, the Bentley's, the Bordeleau's). Larmer should join Tony Esposito, Glenn Hall, Bobby Hull, Keith Magnuson, Pierre Pilote, Stan Mikita and Denis Savard by having his #28 retired.
It is unfortunate that Larmer's consecutive games streak ended because of a contract dispute with the Blackhawks. It is even more disappointing that he finished his career with the New York Rangers. At least Larmer won a Stanley Cup with the 1993-94 Rangers.
When I met Larmer a few years ago, he was one of the most popular guests at the convention. Maybe it was because the Hawks were once again in a down period and he represented better times. More likely it was because Larmer was beloved during his time here and Chicagoans usually remember their favorites long after they have gone away.
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