This Sher-Wood PMP 5030 hockey stick was issued for use by Rick Middleton while playing for the Boston Bruins.  The New York Rangers selected Middleton in the 1st round of the 1973 NHL Amateur Draft. “Nifty” made his NHL debut with the Rangers in 1974-75 where he played the first two years of his NHL career. Middleton joined the Boston Bruins in 1976-77 and he spent the remaining 12 years of his 14-year NHL career calling Boston Garden his home. This fan favorite put up a couple of 100-point seasons as well as lighting the lamp for a career best 51 times in 1981-82. Rick struck for 40 or more in 5 consecutive seasons with the Bruins spanning 1979-80 thru 1983-84. The 1983 playoffs saw Middleton explode for 33 points in 17 games as the Bruins fell just shy of the Stanley Cup Finals.

Middleton was the recipient of the Lady Byng Memorial Trophy in 1981-82. He was also named a 2nd Team NHL All Star in 1982 and played in 3 NHL All Star Games. On the international stage, Middleton represented Team Canada in the 1981 and 1984 Canada Cups. His popularity and leadership qualities earned him the title of team Captain, a role he shared with Ray Bourque beginning in 1985 until his retirement in 1988. Nifty’s All Star career saw him score 448 goals and 988 points in 1005 games played. In recognition of Middleton’s meaning to the franchise, the Bruins retired his player number 16 to the rafters, never to be worn again.

This Sher-Wood stick has the player name and number “Middleton 16” stamped on the side. The stick is un-taped and shows no use. It is uncracked and is in beautiful condition.