Art Giroux

Art Giroux may have only played in 54 NHL contests, scoring six goals and four assists. But he, too, is a legend of hockey.

Especially in Rhode Island.

Giroux was born in Winnipeg, Manitoba but first became prominent in Saskatoon with the Crescents. But it was in sunny California, of all places, that Giroux became noticed by the Montreal Canadiens.

The Habs bought Giroux's contract from the San Francisco Tigers following an outstanding 34 goal season (in 46 games). They also signed Art's brother, George, who played for the champion Oakland Sheiks.

The Giroux's would report to the Habs farm affiliate in Rhode Island - the Providence Reds. It was there that Art, in particular, became a legend, winning four championship titles.

His success begged for a shot at the big leagues. Art Giroux played one full season with the Montreal Canadiens. He scored five goals and seven points in 40 games, but time has largely forgotten Art Giroux. He may be only remembered nowadays as part of the answer to a trivia question as he was one of the few Montreal players to wear number nine before Rocket Richard arrived and made the number famous.

Giroux would later briefly play with Boston and Detroit, but would return to the minor leagues for the balance of his long career. He was happy to be able to return to Providence for the bulk of his career.

Art Giroux passed away on June 5th, 1982 in Calgary, Alberta.