Ed Johnstone facts for kids

Edward "Eddie" Johnstone, born on March 2, 1954, is a Canadian former professional ice hockey player. He played as a right wing. Eddie played in two major leagues: the World Hockey Association (WHA) and the National Hockey League (NHL). He was part of the New York Rangers team that reached the 1979 Stanley Cup Finals in 1979. Eddie was born in Brandon, Manitoba, Canada. He grew up in Vernon, British Columbia.

Eddie Johnstone's Hockey Journey

Starting in Junior Hockey

Eddie Johnstone began his hockey career in junior hockey. He played for the Medicine Hat Tigers. This team was part of the Western Canada Hockey League (WCHL). He played there from 1971 to 1974. Eddie had two amazing seasons with the Tigers. In both, he scored over 100 points. This means he had many goals and assists.

Joining the Pros: Drafted!

Because of his great performance, Eddie was chosen in two different drafts in 1974. The New York Rangers picked him 104th overall in the 1974 NHL amateur draft. This draft is how NHL teams choose young players. The Michigan Stags also picked him 78th overall in the 1974 WHA Amateur Draft. The WHA was another professional hockey league at the time.

Playing in the WHA and AHL

Eddie first played 23 games for the Michigan Stags/Baltimore Blades in the WHA during the 1974–75 season. He also played in the American Hockey League (AHL). The AHL is a league where players often develop their skills before joining the NHL. He played for the Providence Reds in the AHL.

Making it to the NHL

Eddie started his NHL career in the 1975–76 season. He scored 3 points in his first 10 games with the New York Rangers. He played for the Rangers until the end of the 1982–83 season.

A Big Trade

In 1983, Eddie was part of a big trade. He was traded to the Detroit Red Wings. Two other players, Ron Duguay and Eddie Mio, also went with him. In return, the Rangers received Mike Blaisdell, Willie Huber, and Mark Osborne.

Finishing His Career

Eddie played for the Red Wings for a few seasons. He also spent time with their AHL team, the Adirondack Red Wings. He retired from professional hockey in 1987.

Awards and Achievements

Eddie Johnstone earned some special honors during his career:

• He was named to the AHL First All-Star Team in 1977. This means he was one of the best players in the AHL that season.
• He played in the NHL All-Star Game in 1981. This game features the top players from the NHL.
• In a 2009 book called 100 Ranger Greats, Eddie was ranked No. 65. This book listed the greatest players in the history of the New York Rangers.

Career Statistics Summary

Eddie Johnstone played many games in his professional career. Here's a quick look at his total numbers:

WHA Totals

• Games Played: 23
• Goals: 4
• Assists: 4
• Points: 8
• Penalty Minutes: 43

NHL Totals

• Games Played: 426
• Goals: 122
• Assists: 136
• Points: 258
• Penalty Minutes: 375