Brett McLean: A Journey Through the NHL
In our ongoing series highlighting the playing careers of coaches associated with the Vancouver Canucks, we turn our attention to Brett McLean, a prominent figure in the NHL who played for multiple teams including the Chicago Blackhawks, Colorado Avalanche, and Florida Panthers. Originally hailing from Comox, British Columbia, McLean was selected 242nd overall in the 1997 NHL Draft by the Dallas Stars, although he never played a game for them at the NHL level.
Early Career
Before making his mark in professional hockey, McLean honed his skills in the Western Hockey League (WHL) with the Kelowna and Tacoma Rockets, later joining the Brandon Wheat Kings. After completing five seasons in junior hockey, he transitioned to a pro career that would see him play for several teams between 1999 and 2002, including the Saint John Flames in the AHL and the Houston Aeros, showcasing his versatility in various leagues.
NHL Debut and Early Success
His NHL debut came on December 10, 2002, when he suited up for the Blackhawks against the New York Islanders, contributing to a 3-2 victory. McLean played in two games that season, both with the Blackhawks, before spending the rest of the year with the AHL’s Norfolk Admirals, where he had a breakout performance netting 23 goals and assisting on 38 others.
Establishing Himself in the NHL
McLean’s fortunes changed in the 2003-04 season as he firmly established himself in the NHL with the Blackhawks, participating in 76 games and registering 11 goals and 20 assists. This season marked the beginning of a consistent NHL journey, though his progress was disrupted by the league’s lockout the following year, prompting him to spend the time playing in Sweden with the Malmö Redhawks, where he recorded a respectable 13 points in 38 games.
Later Career and Transition
After the lockout concluded, he signed with the Colorado Avalanche and had a full season, featuring in all 82 games, scoring nine goals, and assisting on 31, alongside limited playoff action. Over two seasons with the Avalanche, he further elevated his game, tallying 15 goals and 20 assists in 78 games during his second season.
In 2007, McLean transferred to the Florida Panthers. His inaugural season with the Panthers proved to be one of his most fruitful in terms of offensive production, as he accumulated 14 goals and 23 assists in 67 games. The subsequent season saw a decline in his numbers, scoring just seven goals and recording 12 assists, marking his final NHL season.
Post-NHL Career
Following his departure from the NHL, McLean returned to Europe, playing for clubs in Switzerland and Austria while also enjoying a brief stint with the Rockford IceHogs in the AHL. Notably, he represented Canada in the Spengler Cup five times and clinched a championship in 2012.
As we explore the journeys of the Canucks’ coaches, McLean’s path reveals the multifaceted experiences of professional athletes navigating through various leagues and challenges. To stay updated on more stories like this one, be sure to visit THN’s Vancouver Canucks site for the latest insights and coverage.
