Curt Brackenbury ()with Nick Fotiu, still sporting two black eyes from his infamous bout with Jack Carlson in the 1975 playoffs). In the clip below he fights Pierre Roy of the Quebec Nordiques.
Curt Brackenbury: Still making a difference Writer: Chris Lomon, Editor: Wendy McCreary NHl Alumni Association After signing a contract with the Chicago Cougars of the fledgling World Hockey Association in 1973-74, Brackenbury, who also saw action in 13 games with the IHL’s Des Moines Capitals, appeared in just four games with the club. The next year, however, proved to be an important step for Brackenbury, one that had the hard-nosed competitor playing with the Hampton Gulls (SHL) and the Minnesota Fighting Saints (WHA). In 46 games with the Gulls, Brackenbury scored 19 goals and finished the year with 43 points and 212 penalty minutes. The bruising forward went pointless with Minnesota in seven contests, recording 22 penalty minutes. By this point in his career, Brackenbury began to make people take notice. Although he could chip in with timely goals, it was his determined ways that made him a valuable asset. It was during his time with the WHA’s Quebec Nordiques that Brackenbury solidified himself as a complete player. His penchant for putting the puck in the net at opportune times was backed by a commitment to both ends of the rink. In 1976-77, Brackenbury contributed 16 goals and 29 points, while accumulating 146 penalty minutes. Aside from his individual efforts, the team also performed strongly, defeating Bobby Hull and the Winnipeg Jets in a compelling seven-game series for the league championship. “It was definitely one of the greatest highlights in my career,” said Brackenbury, who got his first big-league experience in 1979-80, when the Nordiques joined the NHL. “It was a hard-fought series which made it all the more rewarding.”
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