Glen Harmon, Canadian ice hockey player (d. 2007)

David Glen Harmon (January 2, 1921 – March 9, 2007) was a distinguished Canadian ice hockey defenceman whose significant career was predominantly defined by his tenure with the storied Montreal Canadiens in the National Hockey League. Playing a crucial role during a vibrant post-war era, Harmon contributed consistently to one of the league’s most iconic franchises for nine seasons.

Born in the small, rural community of Holland, Manitoba, on January 2, 1921, Harmon’s early life in the Canadian prairies likely instilled the resilience and steadfastness that would characterize his professional career. This humble geographical origin is common for many Canadian hockey legends, underscoring the sport's deep roots and widespread development across the country.

Harmon's Storied Career with the Montreal Canadiens

From the 1942-43 season through 1950-51, David Harmon was a consistent and reliable fixture on the Montreal Canadiens' blue line. His entire NHL career unfolded during the illustrious "Original Six" era, a foundational period in the National Hockey League's history when the Canadiens were a dominant force, renowned for their exciting, high-scoring offense and formidable defensive integrity. As a quintessential stay-at-home defenceman, Harmon was not primarily known for offensive fireworks but rather for his steady, dependable presence in his own zone, making him an invaluable component of the team’s overall success and balance.

During his impactful time with the Canadiens, Harmon played a pivotal role in securing two highly coveted Stanley Cup championships. He was an integral part of the legendary teams that triumphantly lifted the Stanley Cup in **1944** and again in **1946**, victories that cemented his place in the franchise’s rich and celebrated history. His defensive acumen provided the necessary stability, allowing more offensively gifted teammates to take risks and contributing to a balanced and highly effective team unit.

Statistical Overview and Playing Style

Throughout his 355 regular season games for the Montreal Canadiens, David Glen Harmon recorded 15 goals, 63 assists, and 78 points, accumulating 276 penalty minutes. In the high-stakes environment of the Stanley Cup Playoffs, he appeared in 46 games, adding 2 goals, 8 assists, and 10 points along with 29 penalty minutes. These statistics clearly underscore his role as a dedicated defensive defenceman, whose primary focus was on shutting down opposing forwards and efficiently moving the puck out of his own end, rather than pursuing high offensive totals. His consistent, no-nonsense performance was a significant factor in the Canadiens' defensive solidity throughout his career.

Later Life and Legacy

After concluding his professional hockey career, David Glen Harmon lived a long life, passing away on March 9, 2007, in Mississauga, Ontario, at the age of 86. His enduring legacy is that of a steadfast and highly effective defenceman who played a quiet yet absolutely crucial role in two Stanley Cup triumphs for one of professional hockey’s most celebrated and historically significant franchises. He embodies the often-unsung heroes of the game—the bedrock defensive players who were vital to team success during a classic and unforgettable era of professional ice hockey.

Frequently Asked Questions about David Glen Harmon

When was David Glen Harmon born and when did he pass away?
David Glen Harmon was born on January 2, 1921, and passed away on March 9, 2007.
Which team did David Glen Harmon play for in the NHL?
He played his entire National Hockey League career as a defenceman for the Montreal Canadiens.
How many Stanley Cups did David Glen Harmon win during his career?
David Glen Harmon won two Stanley Cups with the Montreal Canadiens, achieving victories in 1944 and 1946.
What was David Glen Harmon's primary playing style as a defenceman?
He was predominantly known as a dependable, steady, and effective stay-at-home defenceman, excelling in his own zone and contributing significantly to the team's defensive strength rather than focusing on offensive output.
In which era of NHL hockey did David Glen Harmon play?
David Glen Harmon played during the "Original Six" era of the National Hockey League, which spanned from 1942 to 1951 for his career duration with the Canadiens.