Bradley Robert Maxwell was more than just a name; he was a Canadian ice hockey legend. Born on July 8, 1957, he carved his name into the annals of the sport before his passing on September 3, 2023. Let’s take a closer look at his remarkable journey through the world of professional hockey.
Maxwell was a gifted player known for his extraordinary skills as a playmaking defenceman. One of the highlights of his career was his appearance in the 1981 Stanley Cup Finals with the Minnesota North Stars, a team that held a special place in his heart.
His journey to the NHL began when he clinched victory in the Memorial Cup in 1977 as a member of the New Westminster Bruins. His impressive performance didn’t go unnoticed, as he was selected seventh overall in the 1977 NHL amateur draft by the Minnesota North Stars.
Maxwell remained loyal to the North Stars during the early 1980s, delivering outstanding performances on the ice. In his best season with the club, 1983-84, he tallied an impressive 73 points in just 78 games.
As his career progressed, Maxwell took his talents to various teams, including the Quebec Nordiques, Toronto Maple Leafs, Vancouver Canucks, and New York Rangers. Ultimately, he decided to hang up his skates in 1987.
One of the most intriguing stories from his career involved a trade between the Rangers and the North Stars. Legend has it that Rangers’ general manager Phil Esposito lost a card game to North Stars’ general manager Lou Nanne, resulting in Maxwell returning to the North Stars.
After retiring from professional hockey, Maxwell ventured into the world of business. He founded his own company in Minnesota, Brad Maxwell Cabinets & Construction. This venture showcased his dedication to building not only a career in sports but also in the business world.
Even in retirement, Maxwell continued to give back to the community. He organized and participated in charity games alongside other North Stars alumni, demonstrating his commitment to making a positive impact beyond the rink. Additionally, he played a pivotal role in organizing the North Stars alumni team for the 2016 NHL Stadium Series, where the Minnesota Wild hosted the Chicago Blackhawks. The event featured a thrilling showdown between Blackhawks alumni and a team comprising North Stars and Wild alumni.
Unfortunately, Maxwell‘s journey came to an end on September 3, 2023, when he lost his battle with lung cancer at the age of 66. His legacy, both on and off the ice, will forever be remembered by hockey fans worldwide.
