Blueshirts By the Numbers: Number 18: Walt Tkaczuk
In the dictionary under the word "underrated" there should just be a picture of Walt Tkaczuk.
Tkaczuk joined the Rangers for the 1968-69 season, and soon found himself paired with Bill Fairbairn and Dave Ballon on the Rangers "Bulldog" line, playing a tough two-way game that helped take the heat off the Rangers top scoring "GAG" line of Jean Ratelle, Rod Gilbert and Vic Hadfield.
Walt was a terrific face-off man and defensive forward, but scored more than his fair share of goals, including a career high twenty seven in 1972-73, five straight twenty goal seasons from 69-70 to 73-74, and an amazing seven goals in ten playoff games in 1973.
Tkaczuk has a laundry list of accomplishments, Rangers
A severe eye injury in 1981 forced Walt into a premature retirement at the age of 33. Tkaczuk is fifth on the Rangers all-time list for games played, and played his entire career for the Blueshirts.
Does anyone else remember as a kid getting the Rangers yearbook and there always being a pronunciation listed for Walt's name? (It's pronounced Ka-chuck). Also, how about that picture? Any chance I get to use a pic with the old "pajama" jerseys, I'm taking it.
Honorable Mention at 18: Wally Hergesheimer
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Amen, Jim. Was hoping I’d see this guy on your list from the moment it started and can vividly remember thumbing thru the handbook sized player guides each year and finding good old Walt “Ka-chook”!
by schwartzy on Sep 4, 2010 7:37 AM EDT via mobile reply actions
Right Call
What would give to have him today.?
by It may HAVE to Last a Lifetime on Sep 4, 2010 2:12 PM EDT reply actions

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