Jim Benzelock facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Jim Benzelock |
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| Born | June 21, 1947 Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada |
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| Height | 5 ft 10 in (178 cm) | ||
| Weight | 187 lb (85 kg; 13 st 5 lb) | ||
| Position | Right Wing | ||
| Shot | Right | ||
| Played for | WHA Alberta Oilers Chicago Cougars Quebec Nordiques |
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| NHL Draft | 5th overall, 1968 Minnesota North Stars |
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| Playing career | 1968–1976 | ||
James John Benzelock, born on June 21, 1947, is a former professional ice hockey player from Canada. He played as a right winger, which means he played on the right side of the ice. James was chosen by the Minnesota North Stars in the 1968 NHL Amateur Draft. This was a big deal, as he was the fifth player picked overall in the entire draft!
James Benzelock's Hockey Journey
Even though James was drafted by an NHL team, he never played in the NHL. The NHL is the top professional ice hockey league in North America. Instead, he played in another major league called the World Hockey Association (WHA).
Playing in the WHA
James Benzelock played in 166 games in the WHA. He played for three different teams in this league. His teams included the Alberta Oilers, the Chicago Cougars, and the Quebec Nordiques. The WHA was a big league that competed with the NHL for several years in the 1970s.
Time in Minor Leagues
Before and after his time in the WHA, Benzelock spent most of his career playing in minor professional hockey leagues. These leagues are a step below the major leagues like the NHL or WHA. He played for teams in leagues such as the CHL, the IHL, and the NAHL. Playing in these leagues helped him develop his skills and continue his professional hockey career.
