Claude Larose, Canadian ice hockey player and coach

Claude David Larose, born on March 2, 1942, is a celebrated Canadian former professional ice hockey player whose career spanned 943 enthralling NHL games. Known for his tenure with legendary franchises like the Montreal Canadiens, Minnesota North Stars, and St. Louis Blues, Larose carved out a reputation as a formidable presence on the ice.

Beyond his impactful playing days, Larose continued his commitment to hockey, transitioning into coaching as an assistant for the Hartford Whalers after his retirement. His legacy is also marked by an impressive six Stanley Cup victories: five as a pivotal player with the Montreal Canadiens in 1965, 1966, 1968, 1971, and 1973, and a sixth as a scout for the Carolina Hurricanes in 2006, showcasing his enduring influence on the sport across different roles.

A Dynamic NHL Career

Early Impact and Playing Style

Before Claude Larose joined the Montreal Canadiens, the storied franchise recognized a critical need for enhanced toughness, a quality that wouldn't compromise their signature speed and scoring prowess. Legendary general manager Sam Pollock astutely identified Larose as a player who could deliver precisely that. Pollock's foresight proved correct, as Larose quickly became a cornerstone of the Canadiens' strategy, helping them assert dominance.

As Canadiens captain Jean Béliveau himself noted in his autobiography, the team transformed. "We became the toughest team in the League in 1963–64, which dismayed the opposition," he wrote, a testament to players like Larose who instilled a new level of physical presence.

Statistical Overview

Over a remarkable 16-year National Hockey League journey, including a decade with the Canadiens, Larose amassed an impressive 226 goals and 257 assists for a total of 483 points in 943 NHL games. But his impact wasn't solely measured by offensive statistics; he also accumulated 887 career penalty minutes, embodying the grit and tenacity of his era. Notably, during the pivotal 1971 Stanley Cup Playoffs, Larose led the Canadiens in penalties, a testament to his combative spirit as Montreal famously upset both the reigning champion Boston Bruins and the powerful Chicago Black Hawks on their way to another championship.

The Linemate Effect

While statistics provide a snapshot, they don't always capture the full essence of a player. Claude Larose was renowned for the instant chemistry he brought to his linemates. Many players experienced some of their most productive seasons skating alongside him. For instance, in Larose's rookie year, Ralph Backstrom finished second in scoring for Montreal, a clear indicator of Larose's facilitating presence. Later, Danny Grant earned the prestigious Calder Memorial Trophy as the league's top rookie while playing on a line with Larose. His knack for timely plays extended to the 1969 NHL All-Star Game, where, playing with Minnesota North Stars teammates Grant and Danny O'Shea, Larose netted the crucial tying and final goal.

Unforgettable Comeback

Even a severe injury couldn't diminish Larose's scoring touch. In 1974, returning from a broken leg suffered the previous year, Larose was thrust onto a line with the legendary Mahovlich brothers, Frank and Peter. In an incredible display of resilience and skill, he scored four goals against Pittsburgh's Gary Inness. The very next game, playing right wing with Jacques Lemaire and Steve Shutt, he notched a hat trick. Paired with Lemaire and Shutt once more, he followed up with two more goals in the subsequent contest.

Reflecting on this remarkable period, Larose recently recalled, "I think that's still a Canadiens' record, nine goals in three games. I'd just come back from the broken leg I suffered the year before. I started playing around Jan. 15. Yvan Cournoyer then got hurt and they put me in his place. A lot of people still remind me about that. We could not figure out what was happening. I'd shoot, they'd go in. We were playing for Scotty Bowman. You know, if he thought you were too hot, he'd put you on another line!" This anecdote perfectly illustrates his scoring surge and the unique dynamics of playing for a coaching legend like Scotty Bowman.

Post-Playing Career

After hanging up his skates, Claude Larose transitioned into coaching, serving as an assistant coach for the Hartford Whalers. His expertise and eye for talent have kept him deeply involved in the sport. Today, he continues to contribute to the hockey world as a professional scout for the Carolina Hurricanes, further solidifying his enduring legacy. The Larose name also runs in the family, as he is the proud father of former NHL player Guy Larose.

Notable Appearances

Interestingly, Claude Larose made an appearance in "Le Fanatique" with Guy Morin in 2021, showcasing a different facet of his post-hockey life.

Frequently Asked Questions about Claude Larose

Who is Claude Larose?
Claude Larose is a Canadian former professional ice hockey player who played in the NHL for the Montreal Canadiens, Minnesota North Stars, and St. Louis Blues. He later became an assistant coach and a scout, winning multiple Stanley Cups.
When was Claude Larose born?
Claude David Larose was born on March 2, 1942.
What teams did Claude Larose play for?
Larose played for the Montreal Canadiens, Minnesota North Stars, and St. Louis Blues during his 16-year NHL career.
How many Stanley Cups did Claude Larose win?
He won a total of six Stanley Cups: five as a player with the Montreal Canadiens (1965, 1966, 1968, 1971, 1973) and one as a scout with the Carolina Hurricanes (2006).
What was Claude Larose known for as a player?
He was known for his toughness, speed, and scoring ability, often providing instant chemistry for his linemates. He also had a significant penalty minute total and led the Canadiens in penalties during the 1971 Stanley Cup Playoffs.
What is Claude Larose doing today?
Today, Claude Larose serves as a professional scout for the Carolina Hurricanes.
Is Claude Larose related to other NHL players?
Yes, he is the father of former NHL player Guy Larose.