Hawerchuk Trade: Winnipeg Lost Star, Buffalo Gained Hero

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Dale Howardchuck, the star center for the Winnipeg Jets, lit up the NHL starting in 1981

when they took him first overall in the draft.

Known as Ducky, he racked up over 100 points six times in nine seasons there, including

a rookie of the year award and a career high 100, 30 points in 1984-85.

The tensions with new coach Bob Murdoch cut his ice time, leading him to request the

trade midway through the 1989-90 season.

That summer, on June 16th, 1990, Winnipeg shipped Howardchuck and their first round pick to

the Buffalo Sabers for defenseman Phil, Howesley, Ford Scott Arneal, Tough Guy Jeff Parker

and Buffalo's top draft choice.

It sparked a sweepstakes vibe since elite centers like him didn't hit the market often.

Both teams then grabbed big winners with those picks.

Buffalo got Brad May at 14th overall, Winnipeg's nag Keith Kachuk at 19th.

Jets fans were gutted, losing their franchise face after nearly a decade, especially

blaming Murdoch Shortstint for pushing him out.

Howardchuck had been their playoff leader even in that final year, but the rift was irreparable.

Winnipeg needed defensive punch and Howesley delivered big, hitting 97 points in his

best year there before both sides moved on.

For Buffalo, Howardchuck kept producing, notching his thousandth point in his first season and

peaking with 80 assists in 1992.

93.

He filled in as top center during injuries and earned a spot in their Hall of Fame.

Winnipeg got solid offense from Howesley, a future Hall of Fame or two, though the other

pieces fizzled quick.

Looking back, the deal evened out.

No cups for either side, Hall of Famers swapped straight up and TKChuk outshown may long

term.

Still, Buffalo landed the emotional centerpiece, while Winnipeg mourned the end of an

era that defined their 80s glory.