"I had Trevor Gillies, Joel Rechlicz, Kip Brennan, Michael Haley. There was a hierarchy back then. Those pure fighters started getting phased out... I always said we weren't the real heavies."
"He's so long-it feels like you're climbing a ladder trying to get close... I always tried to get inside on him, but you're just hung out to dry in his reach."
"That was his first NHL game. I knew he'd want one. He was kind of bouncing around in the corner, and I knew he was going to be eager to get into it."
"Zdeno Chara was one of the scariest guys I ever faced-especially when he was angry. I was lucky he wasn't mad when we fought."
Matt Martin, a former New York Islanders player, reflects on his unique role in the NHL as a fighter during a time when the league still valued toughness. He acknowledges facing legendary fighters and discusses the evolution of the tough-guy role in hockey. Martin shares experiences battling against Zdeno Chara, depicting him as one of the most intimidating opponents. He also recalls a memorable fight in a Stadium Series game against a rookie player, emphasizing the intense nature of his role.
Read at Eyes On Isles
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