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Phil Esposito about to score in the Summit Series
Phil Esposito about to score on Vladislav Tretiak in the first Canada-Russia series.
Date:
September 4, 1972
Collection:
CP photo
1972 - Feature Story
A newspaper cartoon called him “Canada’s First Italian Prime Minister” and had Phil Esposito run for office he probably would have won in a landslide. The 30-year-old Boston Bruins centre, from Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario, enjoyed a memorable year that showcased not only his hockey skills but his leadership qualities. In the spring of 1972 he won his third Art Ross trophy as NHL points scoring leader. Months later, Canada met the Soviet Union in an eight-game hockey Summit Series. The event did not begin well for Canada as the Soviets prevailed 2-1-1 after the first four games. Fans booed the host team after a 5-3 loss in Vancouver and on national television Esposito chastised Canadians and called for their support through the next four games in the Soviet Union. Canada rallied to win the final three games and the series. Esposito was the campaign’s top scorer with seven goals and six assists. In 1972, he was one of 67 Canadians named to the Order of Canada.