TTM Stats
- Sent: 4/8/2022 | Received: 5/23/2022 | 45 Days
- ’90 Score (2), ’91 Bowman, ’91 Upper Deck
- Address: Los Angeles Kings Team Address (NHL Team Address Resource)
- Sent: 12/5/2023 | Received: 2/12/2024 | 67 Days
- ’91 O-Pee-Chee, ’92 Score, ’92 Upper Deck
- Address: Los Angeles Kings Team Address (NHL Team Address Resource)
- Sent: 7/30/2024 | Received: 9/3/2024 | 33 Days
- ’91 Pro Set, ’91 Upper Deck, ’92 O-Pee-Chee Premier, ’92 Score, ’92 Topps Stadium Club
- Address: Los Angeles Kings Team Address (NHL Team Address Resource)
The Story of the Autograph
Bill Ranford is a name that resonates with hockey fans, especially those who followed the Edmonton Oilers during the late 1980s and early 1990s. Known for his clutch performances, Ranford was instrumental in leading the Oilers to a Stanley Cup championship in 1990, earning Conn Smythe Trophy honors as playoff MVP. Beyond his playing days, he continued to make an impact in hockey as a coach and mentor to future goaltenders.
William Edward Ranford was born on December 14, 1966, in Brandon, Manitoba. Like many young Canadian players, he developed a passion for hockey early on, particularly excelling as a goaltender. His talent caught the attention of scouts, and he was selected in the third round (52nd overall) of the 1985 NHL Entry Draft by the Boston Bruins.
Ranford made his NHL debut with Boston during the 1985-86 season but saw limited action as he played behind veteran netminders. In 1987, he was traded to the Edmonton Oilers in a deal that sent Andy Moog to the Bruins. This move would prove pivotal for Ranford’s career.
Initially serving as Grant Fuhr’s backup in Edmonton, Ranford got his opportunity when Fuhr suffered an injury during the 1989-90 season. Seizing the moment, Ranford took over the starting role and delivered one of the most remarkable playoff performances in NHL history. During the 1990 Stanley Cup Playoffs, Ranford was nearly unbeatable, leading the Oilers to a championship with a .912 save percentage and a 2.53 goals-against average. His spectacular play helped Edmonton defeat the Boston Bruins in the Stanley Cup Final, and he was awarded the Conn Smythe Trophy as playoff MVP.
After his Stanley Cup triumph, Ranford remained Edmonton’s starting goalie for several more seasons. He played in the 1991 Canada Cup for Team Canada, once again proving his ability to shine on the biggest stages.
In 1996, he was traded back to the Bruins and later had stints with the Washington Capitals, Tampa Bay Lightning, and Detroit Red Wings before retiring in 2000. Over his 15-season NHL career, he played in 647 games, recording 240 wins, 15 shutouts, and a lifetime .888 save percentage.
After retiring as a player, Ranford transitioned into coaching, focusing on goaltender development. He became the goaltending coach for the Los Angeles Kings in 2006, a position he held for over 15 years. Under his guidance, goalies such as Jonathan Quick flourished, helping the Kings win Stanley Cups in 2012 and 2014.
Ranford’s contributions to the game extended beyond his playing days, as he played a crucial role in shaping the next generation of goaltenders. His dedication to the sport has solidified his legacy as both a player and a coach.
Bill Ranford’s career is defined by resilience, clutch performances, and a deep passion for hockey. His heroics in the 1990 Stanley Cup Playoffs remain one of the greatest goaltending displays in NHL history, and his impact as a coach has further cemented his place in the sport.
From his early days in Manitoba to his Stanley Cup triumph and coaching success, Ranford’s journey is a testament to hard work and perseverance. He will always be remembered as a champion, both on and off the ice.
The Score on Bill Ranford – 5.5
Bill is a great signer. His signature is on the small side, but he’s a really consistent signer and returner. I think the hard part forBill is that hockey cards have busy images to signed over in general. When you are a goalie they get even busier.
Thanks Mr. Ranford! I’m giving this bunch a 5.5 overall.
These are not my first successful returns from him. To check out my first return from him, go to my post from October 2022.
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Information gathered using Wikipedia and Hockey Reference.