Brett Hull Raves About Ex-Maple Leafs Captain Wendel Clark’s Legendary Toughness

Brett Hull expressed admiration for former Toronto Maple Leafs captain Wendel Clark, praising the legendary toughness of the NHL star. Hull highlighted Clark's well-rounded skill set and his ability to face even the toughest enforcers in the league. Born in Kelvington, Saskatchewan, Clark was selected as the first overall pick in the 1985 NHL Draft by the Maple Leafs.

Despite being drafted as a defenseman, Clark played as a left-winger in the NHL. His tenacity was evident in his contributions to the game, whether it was scoring goals, making big hits, or fighting to change the momentum. Hull, who played for the St. Louis Blues during their encounters with the Maple Leafs in the Norris Division, witnessed Clark's impact firsthand.

Hull noted that Clark even managed to defeat the notorious enforcer Bob Probert. Hull posed a question to his podcast guests, asking if they would agree that Wendel Clark was one of the greatest hockey players ever. Hull specifically mentioned Clark's ability to sacrifice his body to land big hits, such as hitting an opponent behind the net during a game with the Blues.

Russ Courtnall, another teammate of Clark's on the Leafs, echoed Hull's sentiments about Clark's legendary toughness. Courtnall shared a story from a Detroit game where Clark fought Bob Probert and also warned Basil McRae by saying, "If you don't let him go, you're next." Courtnall described Clark as the toughest guy ever drafted as a defenseman, who scored goals and beat up every player, making him an invaluable teammate.