The word legend almost doesn’t do justice to Maurice “The Rocket” Richard. The fiery, goal-scoring machine did after all steamroll his way through the NHL en route to becoming the most beloved player to ever wear the Canadiens sweater.

With his trademark intensity and intimidating stare, The Rocket was not only the game’s original 50-goal scorer, but also the first player to ever reach the 500-goal plateau. The lifelong Canadien won eight Stanley Cups over his glorious 18-year career that saw Richard lead the league in scoring five times. He was dangerous whenever he stepped on the ice but was absolutely lethal with everything on the line. The Rocket led all playoff scorers five times as his legend grew with each Canadiens playoff triumph. His six overtime goals are a playoff record, some four decades later.

A born leader, Richard wore the “C” from 1956 to 1960, as he captained the Canadiens to their last four of five straight Stanley Cups during that span. In a perfect end to his incredible career, The Rocket raised the Cup in what would prove to be his final game during the 1960 final.

Not surprisingly, the NHL waived its customary waiting period paving the way for the Rocket to be immediately inducted to the Hockey Hall of Fame in 1961. His famous No. 9 was raised to the rafters at the Forum on Oct. 6, 1960. A nationwide hero, the Rocket remains an icon in his home province of Quebec.

Richard’s lengthy bout with cancer was followed by an unparalleled outpouring of affection at his memorial service in the summer of 2000. The touching ceremony was broadcast across the country as the 78-year-old was given a state funeral – the first time such an honor was accorded to an athlete. His legacy lives on through the Maurice Richard Trophy that has been presented to the NHL’s top goal scorer since 1999.