Former Enforcer Returning To Pro Hockey At 51

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Matt Garland
September 21, 2023 (9:03)

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Former NHLer Donald Brashear was one of the toughest enforcers for over 15 seasons in the NHL from 1995-2010. He was able to play 1025 games scoring 85 goals, 205 points and a whopping 2634 penalty minutes. He last played professionally during the 2015-16 season for the Thetford Assurancia of the LNAH league.

The now 51 year old Brashear is returning to pro hockey and the LNAH after signing a one-year deal with the Jonquière Marquis.

"I'm very happy to be part of the Jonquière Marquis. It's going to be a pleasure for me to help out the team, and hopefully win a cup,"

said Brashear in a news release from the team.

Bob Desjardins, the owner of Jonquière Marquis, says he's thrilled to have Brashear onboard.

"For me, it's like wow! I managed to convince Donald to join us. From the start of our conversations, I sensed that Brash wasn't closed to the idea. I have enormous respect for the man. Guys who have played over 1,000 NHL games, that's an incredible feat.

Yes, he's 51, but it's incredible that he's still in such great shape. I'm 56 and it's hard for me to put my socks on in the morning."

- Bob Desjardins

In its news release, the team said two other LNAH club were attempting to recruit Brashear, but he ultimately decided on Jonquière Marquis.

Brashear was involved in one of the most famous incidents in the league during the 1999-2000 season. It occurred during a game on February 21, 2000 when the Vancouver Canucks were playing the Boston Bruins. Defenceman Marty McSorley slashed Brashear in the head with 4.6 seconds left in the game. Brashear fell backwards and hit his head hard on the ice, losing consciousness and suffering a Grade III concussion. McSorley was charged with assault and suspended by the NHL for the remainder of the 1999�2000 season and the playoffs, missing 23 games. McSorley was found guilty and sentenced to 18 months probation. The NHL would extend his suspension a full year after his conviction. McSorley would never play another NHL game again.