The Last Good Year

The Last Good Year chronicles the 1992-93 NHL season, focusing on the Toronto Maple Leafs and their dramatic series against Wayne Gretzky's Los Angeles Kings. Author Damien Cox reconstructs the pivotal moments and personalities that defined this turning point in hockey history. The book examines the state of hockey during a time of major transition, as the NHL moved toward expansion and commercialization. Through interviews and research, Cox details the key figures involved - from players and coaches to executives and owners who shaped the direction of the sport. The narrative centers on the contrasting fortunes of two hockey markets: Toronto's traditional hockey culture and Los Angeles' emerging sunbelt expansion. Cox tracks how their clash in the 1993 playoffs represented larger changes happening across professional hockey. This account captures a watershed moment when the NHL began its evolution from a regional Canadian pastime to an entertainment product marketed for American audiences. The book's exploration of this pivotal season reveals early signs of changes that would transform professional hockey over the following decades.

Readers appreciate Cox's detailed research and interviews that provide behind-the-scenes context about the 1993 NHL playoffs between Toronto and Los Angeles. Many reviews note the book captures the excitement and cultural impact of that series in Toronto. Hockey fans highlight the personal stories about key figures like Wayne Gretzky, Doug Gilmour, and Kerry Fraser. Several readers mention learning new information despite being familiar with the events. Common criticisms include: - Too much focus on Toronto perspective vs LA - Repetitive game descriptions - Limited new insights for those who followed the series closely Ratings: Goodreads: 3.8/5 (119 ratings) Amazon.ca: 4.2/5 (31 ratings) "Great walk down memory lane but needed more LA perspective" - Goodreads reviewer "Solid research but drags during game recaps" - Amazon reviewer "Perfect for Leafs fans who want to relive that season, less engaging for others" - Chapters/Indigo reviewer

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🏒 The book focuses on the 1992-93 NHL season, which many consider the last great year before major changes transformed the league, including expansion and Gary Bettman becoming commissioner. 🇨🇦 Author Damien Cox has been covering hockey for over 30 years and is one of Canada's most respected hockey journalists, writing for the Toronto Star and appearing regularly on Sportsnet. 🏆 The 1992-93 season featured Wayne Gretzky's return from a career-threatening back injury, and he led the Los Angeles Kings to their first Stanley Cup Final appearance. ⚔️ The book details the intense rivalry between the Toronto Maple Leafs and Detroit Red Wings, culminating in a seven-game playoff series that many consider one of the greatest in NHL history. 🌟 The Montreal Canadiens won their 24th Stanley Cup that season - the last Canadian team to win the championship as of 2023, marking the end of an era in Canadian hockey dominance.