Max Bentley, Canadian ice hockey player and coach (b. 1920)

Max Bentley: A Hockey Legend's Enduring Legacy

Maxwell Herbert Lloyd Bentley, born on March 1, 1920, and passing on January 19, 1984, was a celebrated Canadian professional ice hockey player whose illustrious career spanned two decades. Known for his dazzling stickhandling and offensive prowess, he was affectionately dubbed "The Dipsy-Doodle Dandy." Bentley graced the ice for three prominent National Hockey League (NHL) franchises: the Chicago Black Hawks, the Toronto Maple Leafs, and the New York Rangers, leaving an indelible mark on the sport's history.

Pinnacle Achievements and NHL Accolades

Bentley's exceptional skill set translated into remarkable individual achievements during his NHL tenure. He distinguished himself by becoming the league's leading scorer for two consecutive seasons, achieving this feat in both the 1945–46 and 1946–47 campaigns. His outstanding performance during the 1945–46 season was further recognized when he was awarded the prestigious Hart Memorial Trophy, an accolade presented annually to the player judged most valuable to his team in the NHL, as voted by the Professional Hockey Writers' Association.

Beyond individual awards, Bentley was a consistent presence among the league's elite. He participated in four NHL All-Star Games throughout his career (1947, 1948, 1950, 1951), showcasing his talent alongside the game's brightest stars. Furthermore, his consistent high-level play earned him a spot on a post-season All-Star team twice, being named to the First All-Star Team in 1945–46 and the Second All-Star Team in 1946–47.

The Historic Bentley Brothers and Family Legacy

The Bentley name is synonymous with hockey, and Max was a central figure in one of the sport's most remarkable families. He was one of six brothers who all played hockey professionally or at a high senior level. This deep family connection to the game was vividly demonstrated when he played alongside four of his brothers – Doug, Reg, Roy, and Wyatt – for the Drumheller Miners in the Alberta Senior Hockey League (ASHL), a testament to their collective talent and passion for the sport.

In a truly unique moment in NHL history, Max Bentley, alongside his brothers Doug and Reg, formed the league's first all-brother forward line. This historic line, which debuted during the 1942–43 season with the Chicago Black Hawks, captivated fans and showcased an unprecedented level of familial synergy on the ice. Often referred to as "The Bentley Brothers Line," their collective skill and intuitive play created a formidable offensive force.

Key Trades and Stanley Cup Glory

Max Bentley spent five impactful seasons with the Chicago Black Hawks, often playing alongside his brother Doug, before a landmark transaction reshaped his career. On November 2, 1947, Bentley was involved in one of the most significant trades in NHL history at that point, moving from the Black Hawks to the Toronto Maple Leafs. This multi-player deal saw Bentley and forward Gaye Stewart join the Maple Leafs in exchange for Gus Bodnar, Bud Poile, Bob Goldham, Ernie Dickens, and the rights to Bill Thoms.

Why was the 1947 Max Bentley trade so significant?
This trade was highly significant because it involved multiple established players and saw a reigning Hart Trophy winner (Bentley) move between major contenders. It's often cited as one of the largest and most complex trades of its era, directly impacting the balance of power in the NHL.

Upon joining the Toronto Maple Leafs, Bentley became an integral part of one of the NHL's most dominant dynasties. He contributed significantly to the Maple Leafs' remarkable run of three Stanley Cup championships, hoisting the coveted trophy in 1948, 1949, and 1951. His tenure in Toronto solidified his reputation as a big-game player and a proven winner. After his successful run with the Maple Leafs, Bentley played one final NHL season with the New York Rangers during the 1953–54 campaign before concluding his distinguished professional career.

Post-NHL Career and Lasting Recognition

Following his impressive NHL career, Max Bentley returned to his roots in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, where he continued to play senior hockey, further demonstrating his enduring love for the game. His exceptional skills, innovative play, and impactful contributions were formally recognized with his induction into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 1966, cementing his status among the sport's all-time greats.

His legacy continued to be celebrated decades later. In 2017, as part of the league's centennial celebrations marking 100 years of NHL history, the National Hockey League honored Maxwell "Max" Bentley by naming him one of the "NHL's 100 Greatest Players of All-Time." This esteemed recognition underscores his profound and lasting influence on the game of ice hockey.

Frequently Asked Questions About Max Bentley

What was Max Bentley's playing style known for?
Max Bentley was renowned for his exceptional stickhandling ability, often described as "dipsy-doodle," which allowed him to weave through opponents with agility. He combined this with impressive speed and a potent scoring touch, making him a formidable offensive threat.
How many Stanley Cups did Max Bentley win?
Max Bentley won three Stanley Cup championships, all with the Toronto Maple Leafs. These victories occurred in 1948, 1949, and 1951, contributing to the Maple Leafs' dynasty during that era.
Who were the other Bentley brothers who played hockey?
Max Bentley was one of six hockey-playing brothers. His brothers included Doug, Reg, Roy, Wyatt, and Bevan. Doug and Reg notably played alongside Max in the NHL, forming the league's first all-brother line, while others played at high levels of senior hockey.