Maurice Richard was the greatest hockey player this country has ever produced. Known as “The Rocket” during his playing career (1943-1960)and until his death in 2000, he electrified crowds with the intensity of his play and his passion for the game as he won countless games for the legendary Montreal Canadiens, the most successful hockey team in NHL history. Raised in St. Henri, a slum in downtown Montreal, Richard sometimes had to skate to school in winter because his family couldn’t afford both skates and winter boots. Anyone who does not agree with my assessment of his greatness knows nothing about hockey, so dooneyscafe.com shouldn’t listen to them. Contributed by Bill Templeman. Our editors suggest consideration be given to Wayne Gretzky, Gordie Howe, and Bobby Orr as the greatest