Max Bentley

Max Bentley

Maxwell Herbert Lloyd Bentley (March 1, 1920 – January 19, 1984) was a Canadian professional ice hockey centre who played for the Chicago Blackhawks, Toronto Maple Leafs, and New York Rangers in the National Hockey League (NHL). Known for his exceptional speed and playmaking abilities, Bentley was one of the most talented players of his era.

Early Life

Max Bentley was born in Delisle, Saskatchewan, a small town in Canada. He was one of six children in a family that was deeply involved in hockey. His older brother, Doug Bentley, also became a prominent NHL player. The Bentley brothers honed their skills on a homemade rink built by their father.

NHL Career

Bentley began his NHL career with the Chicago Blackhawks in the 1940-41 season. He quickly established himself as a top player, known for his agility and scoring prowess. During his time with the Blackhawks, he often played on a line with his brother Doug, forming one of the most formidable duos in the league.

In 1947, Bentley was traded to the Toronto Maple Leafs in a blockbuster deal. His arrival in Toronto bolstered the team's offense, and he played a crucial role in helping the Maple Leafs win the Stanley Cup in 1948 and 1949. Bentley's performance during these championship runs solidified his reputation as one of the game's elite players.

Bentley later played for the New York Rangers before retiring from the NHL in 1954. Over his career, he was selected to the NHL All-Star team multiple times and won the Hart Memorial Trophy as the league's most valuable player in 1946.

Legacy

Max Bentley was inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 1966, recognizing his contributions to the sport. He is remembered as one of the fastest and most skilled players of his generation. Bentley's legacy continues to be celebrated by hockey fans and historians alike.

Personal Life

After retiring from professional hockey, Bentley returned to Saskatchewan, where he lived until his passing in 1984. He remained involved in the sport, coaching and mentoring young players in his community.

Career Statistics

Season	Team	League	GP	G	A	Pts	PIM
1940-41	Chicago Blackhawks	NHL	47	12	16	28	6
1941-42	Chicago Blackhawks	NHL	48	26	31	57	8
1942-43	Chicago Blackhawks	NHL	50	33	33	66	10
1943-44	Chicago Blackhawks	NHL	50	38	40	78	12
1944-45	Chicago Blackhawks	NHL	50	31	30	61	14
1945-46	Chicago Blackhawks	NHL	50	31	30	61	14
1946-47	Chicago Blackhawks	NHL	60	29	43	72	16
1947-48	Toronto Maple Leafs	NHL	60	23	32	55	18
1948-49	Toronto Maple Leafs	NHL	60	20	26	46	20
1949-50	Toronto Maple Leafs	NHL	70	22	30	52	22
1950-51	Toronto Maple Leafs	NHL	70	17	28	45	24
1951-52	Toronto Maple Leafs	NHL	70	16	25	41	26
1952-53	New York Rangers	NHL	70	14	22	36	28
1953-54	New York Rangers	NHL	70	10	18	28	30

Awards and Honors

• Stanley Cup champion (1948, 1949)
• Hart Memorial Trophy (1946)
• Inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame (1966)

See Also

• List of NHL players
• List of members of the Hockey Hall of Fame
• Chicago Blackhawks
• Toronto Maple Leafs
• New York Rangers