Don Metz, Canadian ice hockey player (d. 2007)

Donald Maurice Metz (January 10, 1916 – November 16, 2007) was a distinguished Canadian professional ice hockey right winger whose entire nine-season National Hockey League (NHL) career, spanning from 1939 to 1949, was dedicated to the iconic Toronto Maple Leafs. Renowned for his tenacious two-way play, Metz was a pivotal asset on the ice, celebrated for his formidable forechecking abilities and strong defensive contributions, particularly as a penalty killer.

His tenure with the Maple Leafs was marked by an extraordinary period of success, culminating in an impressive five Stanley Cup championships. Metz was an integral part of the dynastic Toronto teams that lifted the coveted trophy in 1942, 1945, 1947, 1948, and 1949. This remarkable string of victories firmly established him as a key figure in one of the most dominant eras of early NHL history.

It is noteworthy that Metz's professional career was briefly interrupted by his patriotic service during World War II. He proudly served with the Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF), demonstrating a commitment that mirrored many athletes of his generation who put their sporting ambitions on hold for national duty before returning to excel in their respective fields.

Born in Wilcox, Saskatchewan, a province celebrated for nurturing numerous hockey talents, Donald Metz also shared a unique bond with the Maple Leafs through his family. He was the brother of fellow Leafs forward Nick Metz, making them a rare pair of siblings who played together on the same NHL team and contributed to multiple Stanley Cup victories during their concurrent careers.

Donald Metz: Key Career Highlights and Achievements

• Played his entire 9-season NHL career (1939-1949) with the Toronto Maple Leafs.
• Won an impressive 5 Stanley Cup championships (1942, 1945, 1947, 1948, 1949).
• Known for his strong two-way play, defensive prowess, forechecking, and penalty-killing as a right winger.
• Served in the Royal Canadian Air Force during World War II, interrupting his professional hockey career.
• Teamed with his brother, Nick Metz, on the Toronto Maple Leafs, a rare family connection in professional sports that contributed to multiple championships.
• Accumulated 84 goals and 114 assists for 198 points in 440 regular season NHL games.

Frequently Asked Questions about Donald Metz

When did Donald Metz play for the Toronto Maple Leafs?

Donald Metz played for the Toronto Maple Leafs for parts of nine seasons, specifically from 1939 to 1949.

How many Stanley Cups did Donald Metz win with the Maple Leafs?

Donald Metz won an impressive five Stanley Cups with the Toronto Maple Leafs. These victories occurred in 1942, 1945, 1947, 1948, and 1949, making him a central figure in a highly successful era for the franchise.

Was Donald Metz's hockey career impacted by World War II?

Yes, Donald Metz's professional hockey career was indeed impacted by World War II. He served in the Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF) during the conflict, demonstrating a commitment to his country that temporarily paused his NHL playing time.

Who was Nick Metz in relation to Donald Metz?

Nick Metz was Donald Metz's brother, and notably, they were teammates on the Toronto Maple Leafs. This unique sibling duo played together and contributed to multiple Stanley Cup championships for the team.