Babe Pratt, Canadian ice hockey player (d. 1988)
Walter "Babe" Pratt: A Canadian Hockey Legend and Two-Time Stanley Cup Champion
Walter Peter "Babe" Pratt, born on January 7, 1916, and passing on December 16, 1988, was a distinguished Canadian professional ice hockey player whose illustrious career spanned a pivotal era in the National Hockey League (NHL). Renowned for his versatility and offensive prowess, Pratt excelled as both an offensive defenceman and a left winger, a rare and valuable combination for his time. His impactful NHL tenure, from 1935 to 1947, saw him proudly wear the jerseys of three prominent franchises: the New York Rangers, the Toronto Maple Leafs, and the Boston Bruins. The Pratt family's deep roots in hockey extended further, as Walter was also the father of Tracy Pratt, who followed in his footsteps to play in the NHL, creating a notable family legacy in professional hockey.
A Storied Career Defined by Championships and Individual Accolades
Babe Pratt's playing career was exceptionally bright, marked by significant achievements that cemented his status as a hockey icon and one of the era's premier players:
- Two-Time Stanley Cup Champion: Pratt was an instrumental member of two Stanley Cup-winning teams, a testament to his championship pedigree and ability to perform under pressure. He first hoisted the coveted trophy with the New York Rangers in 1940, contributing significantly to their championship run. He then repeated this ultimate success, playing a crucial role for the Toronto Maple Leafs in their 1945 Stanley Cup victory, demonstrating his consistent ability to contribute to elite teams across different franchises.
- Hart Memorial Trophy Winner: In recognition of his exceptional performance and invaluable contribution to his team, Pratt was awarded the prestigious Hart Memorial Trophy in 1944. This highly esteemed award is presented annually to the player judged to be the most valuable to his team, underscoring his profound impact as one of the league's top players during the challenging mid-1940s wartime era.
- Hockey Hall of Fame Inductee: His profound influence, remarkable skill, and enduring career were officially acknowledged with his induction into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 1966. This honor recognizes him among the sport's greatest figures, highlighting his lasting legacy and contributions to the game of hockey.
The Gambling Controversy and Subsequent Reinstatement
Pratt's distinguished career faced a significant and public challenge in January 1946 when he was suspended indefinitely from the NHL for betting on hockey games. This incident underscored the league's stringent stance on maintaining the integrity of the sport and preventing any perceived conflicts of interest. While Pratt openly admitted to his gambling activities, he steadfastly denied ever placing a bet against his own team, a crucial distinction that weighed heavily in the league's eventual decision regarding his future. Following his sincere promise to cease all gambling on hockey, the league ultimately reinstated him, allowing him to rejoin the Toronto Maple Leafs. He concluded his NHL career with the Boston Bruins during the 1946–47 season before continuing to play professionally in the minor leagues, a common path for veterans looking to extend their playing careers.
Post-Playing Career, Tragic Passing, and Enduring Legacy
Even after hanging up his skates, Babe Pratt remained a beloved and prominent figure in the hockey world. Throughout the 1970s, he became a familiar and cherished voice as a television analyst for CBC Television's iconic "Hockey Night In Canada" telecasts, broadcasting live from Vancouver. This esteemed role allowed him to connect with generations of Canadian hockey fans, sharing his insightful commentary and unwavering passion for the game. Additionally, he dedicated his time as a goodwill ambassador for the Vancouver Canucks, further strengthening his ties to the sport and its burgeoning community on the West Coast.
Pratt's life tragically ended on December 16, 1988, at the age of 72. In a poignant moment that underscored his lifelong connection to the sport, he collapsed from a heart attack in the media lounge of the Pacific Coliseum in Vancouver during the first intermission of a Canucks game. This deeply felt loss prompted an immediate and profound tribute from the Vancouver Canucks, who honored Pratt's memory by stitching "BABE" onto their team sweaters for the remainder of that hockey season, a rare and heartfelt gesture of respect and admiration from the organization and its fanbase.
His enduring place among hockey's all-time greats was further re-affirmed in 1998 when The Hockey News, a highly respected and authoritative publication in the sport, ranked him at number 96 on their definitive list of the 100 Greatest Hockey Players. This posthumous recognition solidified Walter "Babe" Pratt's legacy as one of the most influential, talented, and memorable figures in ice hockey history.
Frequently Asked Questions About Babe Pratt
- What teams did Babe Pratt play for in the NHL?
- Babe Pratt played for the New York Rangers, the Toronto Maple Leafs, and the Boston Bruins during his National Hockey League career.
- How many Stanley Cups did Babe Pratt win during his career?
- Babe Pratt won two Stanley Cups: one with the New York Rangers in 1940 and a second with the Toronto Maple Leafs in 1945.
- Why was Babe Pratt temporarily suspended from the NHL?
- Babe Pratt was suspended from the NHL in January 1946 for betting on hockey games. He was reinstated after admitting to the gambling and promising to cease the activity.
- What was Babe Pratt's involvement in hockey after his playing career ended?
- After retiring as a player, Babe Pratt became a television analyst for CBC's "Hockey Night In Canada" telecasts from Vancouver in the 1970s and also served as a goodwill ambassador for the Vancouver Canucks.
- How did the Vancouver Canucks honor Babe Pratt after his passing?
- Following his death, the Vancouver Canucks paid tribute to Babe Pratt by stitching "BABE" onto their team sweaters for the remainder of the 1988-89 hockey season.