"The greatest hockey player who ever lived: Bobby Orr, and I love him"

Donald Stewart Cherry’s remark, “The greatest hockey player who ever lived: Bobby Orr, and I love him,” reflects both deep admiration and personal affection for the legendary defenseman Bobby Orr. Cherry, a celebrated figure in hockey broadcasting and former NHL coach, has long been recognized for his passionate opinions and strong loyalties. By declaring Orr not just a great player but “the greatest,” he places Orr above all others in the game’s storied history, which brims with iconic figures such as Wayne Gretzky, Gordie Howe, and Mario Lemieux.

Such high praise is rooted in Orr’s transformative impact on hockey. Arriving in the NHL in 1966, Bobby Orr revolutionized the role of defensemen by pairing extraordinary defensive skills with unprecedented offensive prowess. His end-to-end rushes, playmaking genius, and dazzling skating redefined expectations for his position. Orr’s vision, anticipation, and confidence elevated the Boston Bruins during his career, culminating in multiple Norris Trophies, two Stanley Cups, and two Hart Trophies. Perhaps most emblematic was his flying goal in the 1970 Stanley Cup Final, an image immortalized as one of hockey’s most iconic moments.

The clause “and I love him” underscores Cherry’s personal bond with Orr, forged during their time together in Boston. Cherry coached the Bruins in the mid-1970s, when Orr’s influence on team dynamics and culture was profound. This affection is as much about Orr’s character, his humility, work ethic, and devotion to teammates, as his athletic achievements. To Cherry and many others, Orr symbolized not only sublime skill but a model of sportsmanship and leadership.

By making this statement, Cherry affirms Orr’s singular place in hockey history while sharing an authentic, heartfelt endorsement. He invites fans and listeners to appreciate not just Orr’s statistics or trophies, but the intangible qualities that render someone truly great and dearly loved within the fabric of the game.