Hockey Beat - Hockey News

Dave Keon Returns to the Fold

by Mark on February 18th, 2007

It was good to finally see Maple Leaf legion Dave Keon finally return to the fold last night after a 32-year self-exile. Keon was one of the best players of his era and was an integral part of several Maple Leaf teams that won the Stanley Cup. His acrimonious departure from the Leafs in 1975 should never have happened but Leaf owner, Harold Ballard, was a lousy, if not colourful, businessman who squeezed as much out of the organization as he could, and had no respect for the players. Keon and, for that matter, Darryl Sittler (another player who Ballard banished) should have been Leafs for life (much like Steve Yzerman in Detroit). Sittler, at least, is playing a key role witin the organization again as an ambassador. Keon, meanwhile, had repeatedly turned down offers to get involved until finally agreeing to participate in last night’s event to celebrate the 40th anniversary of the Leafs’ 1967 Stanley Cup team. Welcome back, Davie!

Note: Here’s some of the news stories about Keon’s return - CBC and Toronto Star. For some other takes from the blogosphere, check out Toronto Mike, Out of Left Field, who refers to the Ghost of Harold Ballard, and Joe Pelletier, who wonders why the Stanley Cup wasn’t part of the celebration.

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POSTED IN: Events, Hall of Fame