Brett Hull vs Mike Modano Showdown
From rivals on the ice to teammates in Dallas, a clash of titans defined an era.
The confrontation between Brett Hull and Mike Modano represents one of the most defining duels in St. Louis Blues history, pitting the team's all-time leading goal scorer against his former teammate turned arch-rival from Dallas. While Hull joined the Blues in the late 1980s—well after the franchise's formative years (the Blues entered the NHL in 1967)—Modano never played for St. Louis, having been drafted by the Minnesota North Stars. Their clashes became a narrative of contrasting styles: Hull's pure goal-scoring prowess (he was not known for physical play) versus Modano's elegant playmaking and leadership.
Quick Facts
- Hull status
- St. Louis Blues Hall of Famer; second in all-time points (behind Bernie Federko), but all-time leading goal scorer
- Modano original team
- Minnesota North Stars (drafted, never played for St. Louis)
- Rivalry context
- Blues vs. Dallas Stars
- Hull achievement
- 1999 Stanley Cup Champion with Dallas (as a teammate of Modano)
- Modano achievement
- 1999 Stanley Cup Champion with Dallas
- Key era
- Late 1980s to Early 1990s
Lore & Background
The rivalry crystallized when both men became franchise icons for different teams: Hull as the face of the Blues (though he is not the team's all-time leading scorer—Bernie Federko holds that record) and later Dallas, and Modano as the captain of the Stars. Their matchups were often highlighted by high-stakes playoff games in the Western Conference, where the Blues' gritty defense had to contain Modano's offensive genius while Hull sought to exploit defensive lapses. The tension was palpable, not just because they were former colleagues, but because both represented the pinnacle of their respective teams' ambitions during the league's expansion era.
Reader's Guide
The origins of this rivalry are unique because they stem from a near-miss partnership rather than a long-standing feud. When Modano was traded away from St. Louis early in his career, it left a void that Brett Hull eventually filled as the team's primary offensive weapon. The dynamic shifted when both players became stars for rival franchises in the Central Division, particularly during the 1990s when the Dallas Stars emerged as a powerhouse. Key incidents fueled this narrative through high-stakes playoff series where their individual performances often dictated the outcome.
The clash was symbolic of two different philosophies: Hull's aggressive, net-front scoring versus Modano's fluid, creative playmaking. Over time, the rivalry evolved from pure competition to mutual respect, as both players recognized they were part of a special generation that elevated the NHL during its growth period. Even after their retirements, the legacy remains in the records books and the memories of Blues fans who watched them battle for supremacy.
Their story is not one of hatred, but of two greats whose paths crossed at critical moments, defining an era of hockey history.
Did You Know?
- Mike Modano was drafted by the Minnesota North Stars and played his entire career with that franchise (which became the Dallas Stars) until a brief final season with Detroit.
- Both players were teammates on the Dallas Stars when they won the Stanley Cup in 1999.
- Modano never played for the St. Louis Blues; he was a career North Stars/Stars player until his final season with the Red Wings.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who were Brett Hull and Mike Modano during their rivalry?
Brett Hull was the St. Louis Blues' all-time leading scorer, while Mike Modano began his career in St. Louis before becoming a superstar for Dallas. Their feud transformed from a shared history as teammates into one of the most intense matchups between the Blues and the Stars.
How did their playing styles contrast during this showdown?
Hull was known for his relentless, physical goal-scoring ability that dominated the crease. In stark contrast, Modano utilized an elegant playmaking style to orchestrate offense from the center of the ice.
What major Stanley Cup achievements defined their opposing careers?
Brett Hull famously won the 1999 Stanley Cup with Dallas as a direct opponent to St. Louis, while Mike Modano led his team to the 2000 Finals as a runner-up. These high-stakes moments cemented their status as titans of the league during that era.
How did their relationship evolve from teammates to rivals?
Both players were instrumental in developing the Blues during its formative years before Modano was traded away, eventually establishing himself with Dallas. Their subsequent clashes became a legendary story of contrasting legacies pitting the Blues against the Stars and Red Wings.
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