Bert Olmstead Biography

Bert Olmstead's first full season in the NHL came with the Chicago Blackhawks in 1950-51, when he scored 20 goals and established himself as a legitimate NHL player. Olmstead continued with the Montreal Canadiens for the next eight years after being traded to them, winning the Stanley Cup three times in a row. For most of his stay in Montreal, Olmstead was a member of the number one line, replacing Toe Blake with Elmer Lach and Maurice Richard on the legendary scoring line. Later, alongside Jean Beliveau and Boom Boom Geoffrion, Olmstead played the left-wing on another notable scoring line. Surprisingly, Olmstead was acknowledged as the key to the combo by his more famous linemates. Olmstead established an NHL record for most assists in a season with 56 in 1955-1956, a mark that wasn't broken until Jean Beliveau had 61 five years later. He also tied a league record with eight points in a contest. However, Olmstead was most renowned for his leadership abilities, which included getting the most out of his teammates and motivating those around him to improve their game. The Montreal physicians informed Olmstead he had little strength left in his knees after the 1957-58 season, and the Habs left him unprotected in the Intra-League Draft. Coach Billy Reay of the Toronto Maple Leafs jumped at the chance to sign him, and Olmstead went from the Canadiens to the hated adversary, the Maple Leafs, in a flash. Despite missing two months of the season due to a fractured shoulder, the Maple Leafs made it to the Stanley Cup finals in 1960 and won it two years later. This was in large part due to Olmstead's contribution to the squad.
In 1985, he was inducted into the Hall of Fame.

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