This road black dureen gamer by Rawlings was worn by Rick Dudley during the 1975-76 WHA season. After playing his junior hockey with the St. Catharines Black Hawks, this Toronto native began his professional career in 1969-70 and spent 3 seasons in the minors before making his NHL debut in 1972-73 with the Buffalo Sabres. Dudley will always be beloved in Buffalo, as he played an enormous role in helping the Sabres to their first-ever trip to the Stanley Cup Finals in 1975. Rick lit the lamp 31 times and added 39 assists for 70 points to go along with 116 PIMS during that magical 1974-75 season. The following year, Dudley bolted to the WHA’s Cincinnati Stingers and instantly became one of the league’s brightest stars. Dudley played 3 full seasons and another partial year in the WHA. During that time he registered two 40+-goal seasons. In 270 WHA games played, Dudley lit the lamp 131 times and added 146 assists for 277 points. Lest we not forget how tough this power forward was as he amassed 516 PIMS in those 270 games. Dudley earned a 2nd Team WHA All Star selection and also partook in the WHA All Star Game during his brief time in the league.

In the midst of the 1978-79 season, with the writing on the proverbial wall, Dudley chose to leave the WHA and return to the NHL. He suited up once again with the Buffalo Sabres for parts of 3 more seasons before finishing up his career with a brief stint in Winnipeg. Dudley next went on to become a highly successful coach and executive following his playing days and led the Carolina Thunderbirds to 4 consecutive Finals appearances while capturing 3 Championships in his first 4 years in the coaching profession. Rick also served as the Buffalo Sabres and Florida Panthers Head Coach.

Proudly sewn to the left breast of this gamer is the alternate Captain’s “A”. The game wear on this size 48 heavy weight dureen is solid and consists of stick and slash marks, board burns, un-repaired burn holes, runs and fine inner pilling. Fight abuse is also readily evident with a heavily tugged upon trauma induced collar and a custom fight strap on the interior. The original nameplate is also a treat most worthy of mention! Dudley burst onto the WHA scene while wearing this sweater during road games in 1975-76. He played in 74 games and lit the lamp 43 times while adding 38 assists for 81 points to go along with an impressive 156 PIMS! Dudley immediately showed his leadership to his new teammates and wore an “A” during the Cincinnati franchise’s first season of play before eventually inheriting the Captain’s “C”. This stunning example is completely original, sports the coveted letter of honor and was worn by this WHA All Star during his first WHA season, choice!