TTM Stats
- Sent: 4/30/2022 | Received: 5/28/2022 | 28 Days
- ’90 Pro Set, ’90 Score, ’91 Pro Set
- Address: St. Louis Blues Team Address (NHL Team Address Resource)
The Story of the Autograph
Hockey is a sport that rewards skill, grit, and consistency. Few players embodied these qualities as well as Glen Wesley, a stalwart defenseman whose career spanned over two decades in the NHL. Known for his reliability, leadership, and quiet determination, Wesley left a lasting impact on the teams he played for and the teammates he inspired.
Glen Edwin Wesley was born on October 2, 1968, in Red Deer, Alberta, Canada. Growing up in a hockey-loving family, Wesley quickly took to the ice, developing a reputation as a skilled and smart defenseman. His abilities caught the attention of scouts, and he excelled in junior hockey with the Portland Winterhawks of the Western Hockey League (WHL). Wesley’s outstanding play earned him recognition as a top prospect, and in the 1987 NHL Draft, he was selected third overall by the Boston Bruins. His high draft position came with lofty expectations, but Wesley would soon prove himself as a key player for one of the league’s storied franchises.
Wesley made an immediate impact in his rookie season, stepping into a full-time role with the Bruins during the 1987-88 season. His smooth skating, positional awareness, and poise under pressure were hallmarks of his game, and he helped lead Boston to the Stanley Cup Final that year. Although the Bruins fell to the Edmonton Oilers, Wesley’s performance established him as one of the league’s top young defensemen. Over seven seasons with Boston, Wesley became a mainstay on the blue line, providing steady play and contributing offensively. He recorded a career-high 54 points in the 1989-90 season and was instrumental in helping the Bruins reach the Stanley Cup Final again that year, though they once more came up short against the Oilers.
In one of the most notable trades of the era, Wesley was dealt to the Hartford Whalers in 1994 in exchange for three first-round draft picks. When the Whalers relocated to become the Carolina Hurricanes in 1997, Wesley became one of the foundational players for the new franchise. As a veteran leader, Wesley played a crucial role in the Hurricanes’ growth into a competitive team. His defensive reliability and leadership qualities were vital in the team’s 2002 run to the Stanley Cup Final, where they fell to the Detroit Red Wings.
Wesley’s perseverance was finally rewarded in 2006 when the Hurricanes captured their first Stanley Cup, defeating the Edmonton Oilers in a thrilling seven-game series. At 37 years old, Wesley hoisted the Cup as a symbol of his long career and unwavering commitment to his team.
Wesley retired following the 2007-08 season, ending his NHL career with 1,457 games played, 128 goals, 409 assists, and 537 points. His longevity and consistency were remarkable, as he remained a dependable presence on the ice well into his 30s. After retiring, Wesley remained involved with the Hurricanes organization, transitioning into a role as a development coach. His passion for mentoring young players ensured that his knowledge and experience would benefit the next generation of NHL talent.
In 2009, the Hurricanes honored Wesley by retiring his No. 2 jersey, making him the first player in franchise history to receive such recognition.
Glen Wesley’s career is a testament to the value of reliability, leadership, and professionalism in hockey. While he may not have been the flashiest player on the ice, his contributions were invaluable to the teams he played for, and his presence in the locker room was universally respected.
As a Stanley Cup champion and a role model for aspiring defensemen, Wesley’s legacy endures both on and off the ice. His journey serves as a reminder that success in hockey is about more than just individual accolades—it’s about teamwork, perseverance, and making those around you better.
For fans of the Bruins, Whalers, and Hurricanes, Glen Wesley will always be remembered as a player who gave everything to the game he loved.
The Score on Glen Wesley – 7.0
Glen has a really great signature, when you can see it. The two Pro Set cards don’t really give him a great place to show it off, but that 1990 Score card really does. The pictures on that year of Score cards tends to leave a little more white on them throughout the set. That’s definitely my favorite of this bunch.
Thanks Mr. Wesley! I’m giving this return a 7.
This is my second successful return from him. To see the first successful return, check out my post from February 2024.
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Information gathered using Wikipedia and Hockey Reference.