Petr Klima is a former professional ice hockey player who was born on December 23, 1964, in Chomutov, Czechoslovakia. He played for various teams throughout his career, including the Detroit Red Wings, Edmonton Oilers, and Tampa Bay Lightning. Klima was known for his speed, agility, and excellent shooting skills. He was a key player in many of his teams’ victories and is considered one of the best Czech hockey players of all time.
Early Life and Career
Klima began his hockey career playing for HC Chomutov in the Czechoslovakian Extraliga. In 1983, he was drafted by the Detroit Red Wings in the fifth round of the NHL Entry Draft. He moved to North America to play with the Red Wings and quickly became a fan favorite. He scored 32 goals in his rookie season and was named to the NHL All-Rookie Team.
However, Klima’s time in Detroit was not without controversy. He was known for his rebellious behavior and was often at odds with his coach and teammates. In 1988, he was traded to the Edmonton Oilers.
The Edmonton Years
Klima’s time with the Edmonton Oilers was the most successful of his career. He played on a line with Wayne Gretzky and Jari Kurri, and the trio became known as the “Oklahoma City Line”. Klima’s speed and skill complemented Gretzky’s playmaking abilities, and he quickly became a key player on the team.
Klima helped the Oilers win the Stanley Cup in 1990, scoring the game-winning goal in game one of the finals against the Boston Bruins. He also had a hat trick in game one of the 1991 Stanley Cup finals against the Pittsburgh Penguins.
Later Career
After five seasons with the Oilers, Klima was traded to the Tampa Bay Lightning in 1991. He played two seasons with the Lightning before being traded to the Los Angeles Kings in 1993. Klima then played for several European teams before retiring in 2000.
Legacy
Klima’s legacy as a hockey player is significant. He was known for his speed and agility on the ice and was a key player in many of his team’s victories. He scored a total of 313 goals and 287 assists in his NHL career and was an NHL All-Star in 1990. Klima was also a member of the Czechoslovakian team that won the gold medal at the 1985 World Championships.
Today, Klima is involved in youth hockey development in the Czech Republic and is a member of the Czech Ice Hockey Association’s Hall of Fame.
Conclusion
Petr Klima is one of the most legendary Czech hockey players of all time. He was known for his speed, agility, and excellent shooting skills and was a key player in many of his team’s victories. Klima’s legacy as a hockey player is significant, and he will always be remembered as one of the best players to ever come out of the Czech Republic.
