Bun Cook, Canadian ice hockey player and coach (b. 1904)

Frederick Joseph "Bun" Cook, born on September 18, 1903, in Kingston, Ontario, and passing away on March 19, 1988, left an indelible mark on the world of ice hockey, carving out a remarkable career both as a skilled forward and an unparalleled coach. This Canadian legend's journey from amateur success to professional stardom and coaching mastery exemplifies dedication and an unwavering passion for the game.

A Stellar Playing Career: From Amateur Glory to NHL Icon

Before his professional career truly took off, Bun Cook showcased his formidable talent, lifting the prestigious Allan Cup in 1924 with the Sault Ste. Marie Greyhounds. This early taste of championship glory foreshadowed a spectacular 13-year professional career that would see him grace some of hockey's most historic stages. His professional debut saw him skate for the Saskatoon Crescents in the Western Canada Hockey League (WCHL), an early, competitive league that helped shape the landscape of North American hockey. Cook's prowess quickly caught the attention of the burgeoning National Hockey League (NHL).

His move to the NHL saw him play for two of the league's Original Six franchises: the New York Rangers and the Boston Bruins. It was with the New York Rangers that Cook truly cemented his legacy as a player. He became an integral part of one of hockey's most iconic early forward lines: the "Bread Line." Alongside his brother Bill Cook and the legendary Frank Boucher, Bun Cook formed an offensive trio that terrorized opposing defenses, known for their seamless chemistry and scoring ability. This formidable line led the Rangers to two coveted Stanley Cup championships, first in 1928 and again in 1933, solidifying their place in hockey history as pioneers of the sport's greatest prize.

Coaching Mastery: Dominating the AHL

Following his illustrious playing career, Bun Cook seamlessly transitioned into coaching in 1937, where he would leave an even more profound impact, particularly in the American Hockey League (AHL). His coaching tenure spanned an impressive 19 years, primarily with two powerhouse AHL franchises: the Providence Reds for six seasons and the remainder with the Cleveland Barons. Cook's ability to develop talent and build winning teams was simply extraordinary. His 636 wins as a coach stand as the second most in AHL history, a testament to his tactical brilliance and leadership. Under his guidance, his teams reached the playoffs in all but one of his seasons, demonstrating an astonishing level of consistency and competitive drive.

Cook's success as an AHL coach was unprecedented. He was recognized as an AHL All-Star coach on six occasions, and most remarkably, he led his teams to a record seven Calder Cup championships, the ultimate prize in the American Hockey League. This incredible feat underscores his unparalleled dominance in the league, cementing his status as one of the most successful coaches in the history of minor league hockey.

A Lasting Legacy: Hall of Fame Recognition

Bun Cook's immense contributions to ice hockey, both as a stellar player and an iconic coach, were formally recognized posthumously. In 1995, he was deservingly inducted into the prestigious Hockey Hall of Fame, acknowledging his achievements at the highest level of the sport. His legacy in the AHL was further celebrated in 2007 when he was inducted into the AHL Hall of Fame, making him one of the select few to be honored by both institutions. Beyond his numerous accolades, Cook also holds a unique place in history as the last surviving former player of the Saskatoon Crescents, a poignant connection to an earlier era of the game.

Frequently Asked Questions about Bun Cook

Who was Frederick Joseph "Bun" Cook?
Frederick Joseph "Bun" Cook was a legendary Canadian professional ice hockey forward and coach, renowned for his successful playing career in the NHL with the New York Rangers and Boston Bruins, and his dominant coaching career in the AHL.
What teams did Bun Cook play for in the NHL?
Bun Cook played for the New York Rangers and the Boston Bruins in the National Hockey League.
How many Stanley Cups did Bun Cook win?
Bun Cook won two Stanley Cups with the New York Rangers, in 1928 and 1933.
What was the "Bread Line"?
The "Bread Line" was a famous forward line for the New York Rangers, consisting of Bun Cook, his brother Bill Cook, and Frank Boucher. They were highly effective and instrumental in the Rangers' early Stanley Cup victories.
What are Bun Cook's major coaching achievements?
As a coach, Bun Cook amassed 636 wins, the second most in AHL history, and led his teams to a record seven Calder Cup championships. He was also named an AHL All-Star coach six times.
When was Bun Cook inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame?
Bun Cook was posthumously inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 1995.
Was Bun Cook also recognized by the AHL Hall of Fame?
Yes, Bun Cook was posthumously inducted into the AHL Hall of Fame in 2007, recognizing his incredible impact as a coach in the league.