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

Denis Potvin became the cornerstone of the New York Islanders dynasty of the early 1980s. Drafted first overall in 1973, he matured into one of the game’s most dominant defensemen, leading the Islanders to four straight Stanley Cups and capturing three Norris Trophies along the way.

He was remembered for his toughness, leadership, and ability to contribute offensively from the back end. Potvin’s physical play and steady presence as captain set the tone for the Islanders’ championship run, making him one of the defining defensemen of his generation.