Winners: Phil Esposito, Ice Hockey

1972 - Feature Story

A newspaper cartoon called him “Canada’s First Italian Prime Minister” and had Phil Esposito run for office he probably would have won in a landslide. The 30-year-old Boston Bruins centre, from Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario, enjoyed a memorable year that showcased not only his hockey skills but his leadership qualities. In the spring of 1972 he won his third Art Ross trophy as NHL points scoring leader. Months later, Canada met the Soviet Union in an eight-game hockey Summit Series.  The event did not begin well for Canada as the Soviets prevailed 2-1-1 after the first four games. Fans booed the host team after a 5-3 loss in Vancouver and on national television Esposito chastised Canadians and called for their support through the next four games in the Soviet Union. Canada rallied to win the final three games and the series. Esposito was the campaign’s top scorer with seven goals and six assists. In 1972, he was one of 67 Canadians named to the Order of Canada.

1973 - Feature Story

Esposito became just the sixth athlete to win two consecutive Lionel Conacher awards. Lauded for his leadership and goal-scoring ability, Esposito topped the 1973 award vote after securing yet another Art Ross trophy for the 1972-1973 NHL season. He began the 1973-1974 campaign with a remarkable 34 goals and 32 assists in his first 28 games.

Career Highlights

• 1972, 1973 Lionel Conacher Award (Canada’s male athlete of the year)
• 1971 First player in NHL history to score 70 or more goals in a season (76)
• 1971-1975 First player in NHL history to record five straight 50 or more goal seasons
• 1969, 1974 Hart Trophy (Most Valuable Player in the NHL)
• 1969, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1974 Art Ross Trophy (NHL scoring champion)