TTM Stats
-
- Sent: 5/28/2022 | Received: 611/2022 | 13 Days
- ’90 Score, ’91 Bowman, ’91 Pro Set, ’91 Score
- Address: Home Address (address from Sports Card Forum)
The Story of the Autograph
Doug Smail may not have been the biggest name in NHL history, but his speed, work ethic, and determination made him a standout player during his 13-year professional hockey career. Known for his blazing skating ability and tireless energy, Smail carved out a niche as a reliable two-way forward and a fan favorite. His journey from an undrafted college player to a seasoned NHL veteran is a testament to his dedication and love for the game.
Doug Smail was born on September 2, 1957, in Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan, Canada. Growing up in a hockey-rich environment, Smail honed his skills on local rinks, eventually earning an opportunity to play college hockey in the United States. Smail attended the University of North Dakota (UND), where he became a key player for the Fighting Sioux. His time at UND was marked by tremendous success. Smail’s speed, hustle, and offensive contributions made him one of the team’s standout performers, and he left college hockey with a strong reputation as a promising prospect.
Despite his impressive collegiate career, Smail went undrafted. However, the Winnipeg Jets saw potential in the speedy winger and signed him as a free agent in 1980. He made his NHL debut during the 1980-81 season and quickly established himself as a hardworking forward who could be relied upon in all situations. While he wasn’t a prolific scorer, his speed and defensive acumen made him a valuable asset to the Jets.
Smail enjoyed some of his best offensive seasons during the mid-1980s. His ability to create scoring chances with his speed and tenacity led to multiple 20-goal campaigns. His best season came in 1984-85, when he recorded 31 goals and 35 assists for 66 points, showcasing his ability to contribute offensively while remaining a dependable two-way player. His most notable achievement came on December 20, 1981, when he scored just 5 seconds into a game against the St. Louis Blues, tying the NHL record for the fastest goal to start a game. This remarkable feat highlighted his lightning-quick skating and hockey sense.
Smail spent the majority of his career with the Jets, serving as a mentor to younger players and a key figure in the locker room. He played 11 seasons in Winnipeg, becoming one of the longest-tenured players in franchise history and a fan favorite for his relentless effort on the ice.
In the latter stages of his NHL career, Smail had stints with the Minnesota North Stars, Quebec Nordiques, and Ottawa Senators, providing veteran leadership and depth. He eventually took his talents to Europe, playing in the Swiss and Austrian leagues, where he continued to excel and showcase his passion for the game.
After retiring from professional hockey in the early 1990s, Smail transitioned to a career off the ice. He settled in the United States and became involved in youth hockey, sharing his knowledge and experience with the next generation of players. Smail also worked in the private sector, leveraging his leadership skills and work ethic in various business ventures. Despite stepping away from the professional hockey spotlight, he remained connected to the sport through coaching and alumni events.
Doug Smail’s legacy is one of perseverance, speed, and dedication. As one of the fastest skaters of his era, he brought excitement to the game and inspired teammates and fans alike with his relentless effort. His time with the Winnipeg Jets solidified his place in franchise history, and his contributions to the team are fondly remembered by fans who appreciated his unyielding commitment to the game. While he may not have garnered the accolades of some of his peers, Doug Smail’s career serves as a reminder that hard work, heart, and speed can leave a lasting impact in the world of hockey.
Smail’s journey from undrafted college player to NHL mainstay is a testament to his determination and love for the sport. His record-setting speed, leadership, and work ethic ensured that his name would be remembered by those who value the qualities of a true team player. For the Winnipeg Jets and their fans, Smail will always be a symbol of the grit and passion that defines hockey at its best.
The Score on Doug Smail – 6.5
Doug has a pretty good sized signature and I would say it seems very “open” to me. It has some character with a little bit of a bubbly effect to it. That is especially the case with his capital “D” and “S”. I think my favorite of this group is between the 1990 Score and the 1991 Score.
Thanks Mr. Smail! I’m giving this return a 6.5.
>>> READ MORE ABOUT MY AUTOGRAPH SCORING SYSTEM <<<
Thanks for visiting BravestarrCards.com: Card Collecting and TTM Autographs.
Information gathered using Wikipedia and Hockey Reference.