The Greatest Hockey Players of All Time: Then vs. Now

Bobby Orr joined the Boston Bruins in 1966 and revolutionized the defenseman’s role. His unmatched skating, vision, and offensive instincts allowed him to dominate games from the blue line, redefining what a defenseman could be. He won eight Norris Trophies and became the face of the NHL in the 1970s.

He was remembered for his iconic 1970 Stanley Cup–winning goal, captured in one of hockey’s most famous photos. Despite chronic knee injuries cutting his career short, Orr’s legacy as perhaps the most influential defenseman ever cemented him as one of the game’s all-time greats.