Pierre Houde: A Montreal Canadiens Legend
The Early Years
Pierre Houde was born in Montreal, Quebec, Canada, on February 22, 1955. He began playing ice hockey at a young age and quickly rose through the ranks of minor hockey in Quebec, playing for the Verdun Maple Leafs and the Montreal Juniors.
In 1975, Houde was drafted by the Montreal Canadiens in the first round of the NHL Entry Draft. He made his NHL debut in the 1975–76 season and quickly became a fan favorite.
A Career in Montreal
Houde spent 11 seasons with the Canadiens, playing 883 games and scoring 199 goals and 336 assists.
He was a member of the Canadiens' Stanley Cup-winning teams in 1976, 1977, 1978, 1979, and 1986, establishing himself as a fearless enforcer and talented centerman.
The Beer-Loving Legend
Houde was well-known for his love of beer, earning him the nickname "Captain Crash." He was often seen celebrating victories with a Molson beer, which was brewed in Montreal by Molson Brewery.
His love of beer extended beyond the rink, and he was involved in several advertising campaigns for Molson Brewery.
Retirement and Legacy
Houde retired from the NHL in 1989 and was inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 2005.
He is widely considered one of the greatest centers in Canadiens' history and is still fondly remembered by fans for his hard-hitting style and his love of beer.
