In a recent discussion on NESN’s “The Hockey Hub,” Bruins analyst Andy Brickley shared his insights on the three ‘scariest’ players in NHL history, honoring Wayne Gretzky, Mark Messier, and Mario Lemieux. Each of these legends brought a unique form of intimidation to the ice, and Brickley, having played against and alongside them, offered a firsthand perspective on their formidable presence.
Wayne Gretzky, known as “The Great One,” was a master of the game, feared not just for his scoring ability but for his playmaking skills. Brickley recalled his experiences guarding Gretzky during his time in Los Angeles, highlighting how Gretzky could dismantle defenses with his extraordinary vision and passing. “He could flat-out beat you, whether one-on-one or through a brilliant assist,” Brickley explained. This ability to read the game and anticipate plays made him a constant threat, instilling fear in opponents who knew that one misstep could lead to a goal.
On the other hand, Mark Messier, affectionately nicknamed “Moose,” posed a different type of threat. Brickley described Messier’s physicality and intense presence on the ice. “He’d give you that death stare,” he said, emphasizing how Messier’s aggressive style and determination made him intimidating. Known for his leadership and toughness, Messier could dominate not only with skill but also with a relentless work ethic that made him a nightmare for defenders. His ability to control the pace of the game while exerting physical pressure set him apart as one of the scariest players to face.
Brickley also highlighted Mario Lemieux, his former teammate with the Pittsburgh Penguins, as another player who struck fear into the hearts of opponents. Standing at 6-foot-6, Lemieux combined size with incredible agility and finesse. “He could physically beat you in so many ways,” Brickley noted, pointing out Lemieux’s exceptional reach and deceptive playing style. His intelligence on the ice, coupled with a lethal shot, made him a multifaceted threat. Despite battling health issues throughout his career, Lemieux’s sheer talent and capability to dominate games left an indelible mark on the sport.
In summarizing his choices, Brickley captured the essence of what made these players so intimidating: their extraordinary skill sets, physical presence, and ability to exploit weaknesses in their opponents, making them legends of the game and unforgettable figures in hockey history.
