Mike Modano – Franchise Assists Record

The all-time goal-scoring leader amongst American-born players in NHL history, Modano is widely regarded as one of the greatest American-born ice hockey players of all time.

Michael Thomas Modano Jr. (born June 7, 1970) is an American former professional ice hockey player. He played as a center and spent most of his career with the Minnesota North Stars/Dallas Stars franchise. He spent the final season of his career with his hometown Detroit Red Wings.

Quick Facts

Franchise tenure: Minnesota North Stars/Dallas Stars, 1989–2010
Key individual honours: Art Ross Trophy (1995–96), 10× NHL All-Star

Lore & Background

Modano was born in Livonia, Michigan, the third child and only son of Michael Sr. and Karen Modano. He grew up in Highland Township. As a youth, he was part of a Detroit Red Wings team in the 1982 Quebec International Pee-Wee Hockey Tournament. He attended Franklin High School in Livonia, Michigan. He chose the number 9 for his jersey in homage to Ted Williams and Gordie Howe.

Reader's Guide

Modano was drafted first overall by the Minnesota North Stars in 1988. He signed with the North Stars on Christmas of 1988 and joined the team for the 1989–90 season. After the team moved to Dallas, he led the Stars to two straight first-place regular season finishes in 1998 and 1999, and the Stanley Cup in 1999. He scored his 500th career regular-season goal on March 13, 2007.