On This Date In Chicago Blackhawks History

Doug Wilson #24 (picture courtesy of blackhawkslegends@blogspot.com)

On This Date In Chicago Blackhawks History,

On April 4, 1982

Doug Wilson scored his 39th goal of the season in a 4-3 win against the Minnesota North Stars at the Chicago Stadium. The 39 goals set the standard that remains today as the highest goal total for a Blackhawks defenseman in their long history. Only Al Secord (44) had more goals than Wilson in 1982 on a roster that included Denis Savard.

Doug Wilson went on to win the Norris Trophy for his play during the 81-82 season.  39 goals is pretty mind blowing and yes the style of hockey was a lot different in the early 80’s compared to today’s version of hockey in the NHL, but in comparison Brent Seabrook led the Hawks defenseman in goals last year with 9!  It may be a long time until the Hawks have a D-man approach Doug Wilson’s record.

The Hawks made it all the way to the Western Conference Championship after upsetting the North Stars and Blues in early  playoff series in 1982 before bowing out to the Vancouver Canucks.

Doug Wilson is a Blackhawks All-time great and his greatest season ended with a goal on this date 31 years ago today!

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