July 17 turned out to be a very active day in the history of the National Hockey League. In New York, a general manager, who ended a historic drought, was hired and a key member of a legendary dynasty was born. Also, one of the best defensive forwards in the game hung up his skates.
Joe Primeau
This article was originally published in August, 2012. Jimmy Thomson (THW Archives) James Richard ‘Jeems’ Thomson (also ‘The Gold Dust Twins’ with Gus Mortson)#2, 20 Defenceb: 23 Feb 1927 Winnipeg, MBd: 18 May 1991 Toronto Maple Leafs 1945-57Acquired: Signed as free agent, October 16, 1945. Lost: Traded to Chicago for cash, August 1957.Toronto totals: 717 Games,