Forgotten Man on the Gashouse Gang

Bobby Hull, Stan Mikita, Glenn Hall, and Pierre Pilote are all Hall of Fame players who redefined Chicago hockey in the 1960's. Due to the tremendous achievements of these players, a number of very good players tend to be less remembered. In the "Gashouse Gang" era of the early 1960s, Reggie Fleming is chief among these oft called "forgotten players."

Born in Montreal, Fleming started his NHL career with his hometown Montreal Canadiens. With little chance of cracking Les Glorieux's line-up, he became part of a nine-player trade to the Chicago Black Hawks. This proved to be a god-send, as Reg became a regular player. "Mr. Clean," his nickname due to his resemblance to the crew cut wearing, wide-necked cleaning mascot, was known as "The Ruffian" to opponents. He played a physical, combative, and irritating style, playing both defense and offense. Reg made a name for himself as a nasty, penalty-kill specialist who often got under the skin of opposing players. At one point, he held the record for most penalty minutes in a game with 37.

The Black Hawks' physical, grinding style of play led them to the Stanley Cup Finals in Fleming's first year with the team. With Chicago leading the series against the Detroit Red Wings 3-2, Game Six started poorly for the Hawks. Down 1-0 in the second period, Detroit looked to be in control of the game. With the Red Wings on a powerplay, Fleming intercepted a pass meant for Gordie Howe, and scored the tying goal. The momentum swung back in Chicago's favor and the Hawks went on to win the game 5-1. In a series of Youtube interviews with his son, a filmmaker, Reg describes that as his greatest hockey memory.

Mr. Clean went on to play for the Bruins, Rangers, Flyers, and Sabres. After one season with Buffalo, he played six more seasons in the minors. No matter where he played, he never moved his family from Chicago. He said that he loved the friendliness of the people.

Reginald Stephen Fleming died on Saturday, July 11. He will forever be known as one the game's most implacable players on the ice, but a perfect gentleman off the ice.

For a great video of Reg's Stanley Cup goal with commentary from players and journalists click here.