Posted in Bruins History, 50 Greatest Bruins names No Comments May 31st, 2007
The 50 greatest Bruins names of all time: Addendum
After doing some additional research, I unearthed some more names…specifically nicknames…that eluded me in my initial searches. Because of this, I’ve decided to slightly shuffle my top 30. Because of the new entries some of the original Top 30 had to get cut. We’ve asked them to leave their playbooks and almost-great name tags in their lockers.
As a result, I present to you an additional Honorary Mention list. Some of these would probably even make the Top 50, but I’ll be damned if I’m going to go back and completely redo #31-50. 
Eddie “Edmonton Express” Shore - Eddie Shore needs no introduction. One of the greatest defenseman ever to play the game and was an end-to-end D man well before Bobby Orr was even born. To me, “Edmonton Express” was a good nickname, but didn’t blow me away.
Johnny “Chief” Bucyk - I almost feel to the point of sacrilege here by putting Eddie Shore and “Chief” in ANY sort of Honorable Mention category. Unfortunately, I’ve only been mildly impressed by the name…even if it does (incorrectly) reflect his heritage. Now, if they called him Geronimo, Cochise or even Pocahontas…well then, that would be a different story.
Phil “The Italian Slot Machine” Esposito - The only reason this nickname isn’t in my top ten is because of its relative obscurity. I’ve only seen this reference in a few places and, unfortunately, not plastered all over the internet, signed on his 8×10 photos, etc. “Espo” is obviously the more common moniker which, regrettably, isn’t all that impressive. His detractors often pointed out that most of his goals weren’t that fancy and came while standing in the slot (hence the nickname) but you know what? Not everyone who “just stands in the slot” can rack up 717 career goals.
Derek “Turk” Sanderson - I only wish I could give mustache points. Man, I miss the 70’s.
Ron “Peaches” Lyons - The 1930-31 Bruins had a Dutch, Tiny, Cooney, Dit, Smokey and a Perk. Somehow, someone, somewhere decided they also needed a Peaches. With that name, you have to wonder if they were really trying to get a flapper to accompany the team.
Orval Tessier - His name screams farm upbringing. And also smells vaguely of popcorn.
Garnet “Ace” Bailey - The nickname “Ace” has also been a weakness of mine but the fact that he died on Flight 175 in the 9/11 attacks gives him an extra boost in my book.
