5 Hockey Players who Played for Canucks and Canadiens
My guess is you’ve searched this page out because you’re playing the Immaculate Grid.
If I’m right, that also means that today’s grid is asking for players that have played for both the Vancouver Canucks and the Montreal Canadiens.
And, I’m also guessing that you’re a little stuck on this particular square and you’re looking for a little help to keep your grid immaculate. Sound about right so far?
Well, good news, I’m here to help.
I’ve already done the research and have put together a list of well-known stars along with some more “under-the-radar” players that could land you a low rarity score.
Mathieu Schneider
Mathieu Schneider began his NHL journey after being drafted by the Montreal Canadiens in the third round of the 1987 NHL Entry Draft. He would go on to play for the Canadiens for several seasons, even being a part of their Stanley Cup-winning squad in 1993.
His NHL career spanned over two decades, during which he played for multiple teams (10 in total), including the Islanders, Maple Leafs, Rangers, Kings, Red Wings, Ducks, Thrashers, Canucks, and Coyotes.
Offensively skilled, Schneider often posted impressive point totals for a defenseman, culminating in over 700 points throughout his NHL career.
Thomas Vanek
Thomas Vanek is a professional ice hockey player from Austria who, over his National Hockey League career, has been recognized for his offensive prowess and ability to score goals. He’s one of the most successful Austrian-born players to compete in the NHL.
Vanek began his NHL journey after being selected fifth overall by the Buffalo Sabres in the 2003 NHL Entry Draft. He made an immediate impact with the Sabres, becoming a consistent goal scorer and offensive threat. During his tenure with Buffalo, Vanek was a key player, frequently leading the team in points and goals.
After nearly a decade with the Sabres, Vanek went on to play for various NHL teams, including the New York Islanders, Minnesota Wild, Detroit Red Wings, Florida Panthers, Vancouver Canucks, Columbus Blue Jackets, and Detroit Red Wings again.
Vanek Key Stats
- All-Star (Sabres)
- 40+ Goal Season (Sabres)
Tyler Toffoli
Tyler Toffoli was selected in the second round, 47th overall, by the Los Angeles Kings in the 2010 NHL Entry Draft. Toffoli’s combination of scoring ability, hockey IQ, and work ethic have made him an important asset for the teams he’s played for, as well as a fan favorite.
Toffoli played for the Kings from 2012 to 2020, where he helped the team win the Stanley Cup in 2014. He was then traded to the Canucks during the 2019-2020 season before signing with the Canadiens in 2020. In his first season with the Canadiens, Toffoli was instrumental in the team’s surprising run to the Stanley Cup Finals.
He has developed a reputation as a consistent scorer and two-way player, contributing both offensively and defensively. Over his career, he has notched several 20+ goal seasons, including a career-high 34 goals in the 2022-23 season with Calgary.
Jaroslav Halak
Jaroslav Halak is a goaltender known for his calm demeanor and skill between the pipes. He was drafted 271st overall by the Montreal Canadiens in the 2003 NHL Draft.
Halak started his NHL career with the Canadiens, and during his time there, he had a number of standout performances, particularly in the 2010 playoffs, where he played a crucial role in the team’s surprising deep run, helping them to upset favorites like the Washington Capitals and the Pittsburgh Penguins with his outstanding goaltending.
In 2010, he was traded to the St. Louis Blues, where he continued to showcase his talent as a starting goaltender. His journey in the NHL has also seen him tending the goal for the New York Islanders, Boston Bruins, Vancouver Canucks and New York Rangers.
Halak Key Stats
- 30+ Win Season (Islanders)
Jim Dowd
Jim Dowd, an American former center, had a remarkable 17-season NHL career, playing for ten different teams. He made history by becoming the first New Jersey native to play for the New Jersey Devils, with whom he debuted in the 1991-92 season after a successful college career.
Dowd’s tenure with the Devils was highlighted by scoring the game-winning goal in Game 2 of the 1995 Stanley Cup Finals, helping them secure their first championship.
After leaving the Devils, Jim Dowd played for a series of NHL teams, including the Whalers, Canucks, Islanders, Flames, Predators, Oilers, Wild, Canadiens, Blackhawks, and Avalanche. His career was marked by various trades and signings, with significant playing time at the Oilers and nearly four seasons with the Wild.
