Stan Fischler hockey journalist since 1954 and Lester Patrick Awardwinner for contributions to hockey in the United States covers the sports history its origins rules players and more Stick handlers without helmets rushing goaltenders without masks on rinks lacking sideboards gives way to a faster game with bigger players and overtime shootouts. The National Hockey League goes from a Canadian and regional sport to one that is watched by more fans throughout North America than ever. Hockey may have changed but its essence and appeal remain. The Handy Hockey Answer Book written by hockey historian broadcaster author and selfprofessed Hockey Maven Stan Fischler brings the game to life through exciting game action vital stats players rules and more. It traces the early spread of hockey Lord Stanleys involvement and the birth of the cup then explains the rules the equipment strategies and positioning before following the ups and downs of the National Hockey League and its teams and players. From the traditions alltime cup and awardwinners and recordbreakers to the modern game The Handy Hockey Answer Book answers more than 800 questions on the game greats goals and growing popularity of hockey including ... Where does hockey come from What was the Stanley Cup first called Where did the name Patrick Division come from and why are the Patrick brothers important When was sixman hockey invented and who was its creator What is a Zamboni and after whom was it named What was the Gretzky Rule How did the hockey puck develop its present shape Which is the oldest current NHL team Why is the term Original Six a misnomer Which Hall of Famer trained on champagne Who holds the Montreal Canadiens franchise record for career goals Who centered Gordie Howe and Ted Lindsey on Detroits legendary Production Line. Which team was the first to come back from being down 30 in a series. Who played right wing on a line with Phil Esposito for the Bruins in the late 60s and 70s Who was the fi