ESPN Classic - The LaFontaine file

Wednesday, November 19, 2003
The LaFontaine file
By Phillip Lee
Special to ESPN Classic

Pat LaFontaine

Born - St. Louis, Feb. 22, 1965

5-10", 182 lbs.

Center

Shoots right

Pat LaFontaine had his career end prematurely at 33 when he was forced to retire after suffering six concussions. He retired in 1998.

LaFontaine was born in St. Louis and raised in Detroit. He played junior hockey in Quebec and was drafted No. 3 overall by the New York Islanders in 1983. He scored goals and had 566 points in 530 games before being traded to Buffalo on October 25, 1991. LaFontaine ended his career with the New York Rangers.

A five-time All-Star, LaFontaine finished his career with 486 goals and 1,031 points

Career highlights:

Won Bill Masterson Memorial Trophy (1994-95)

Holds NHL playoff record for fastest two goals from the start of a period -- 35 seconds (May 19, 1984)

Participated in 5 NHL All-Star contests

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