Max Bentley

A three-time Stanley Cup champion who led the Leafs in scoring and playoffs during their championship runs.

Max Bentley arrived in Toronto on November 2, 1947, as part of a seismic trade that sent him and Cy Thomas to the Maple Leafs in exchange for Gus Bodnar, Bud Poile, Gaye Stewart, Ernie Dickens, and Bob Goldham. NHL President Clarence Campbell called the deal one of the most significant transactions in league history. Initially disappointed to leave his brother Doug behind in Chicago, Bentley quickly adapted to Toronto, becoming an immediate fan favorite. Over six seasons with the club, he helped secure three Stanley Cup championships: a four-game sweep over Detroit in 1948, another victory against the Red Wings in 1949, and a five-game win over Montreal in 1951. His contributions were vital, from scoring the deciding goal in the 1949 Final to leading the team in playoff points during the 1951 run.

Quick Facts

Hall of Fame

1966

Born

1 March 1920

Birthplace

Delisle, Saskatchewan, Canada

Died

18 January 1984

Place of death

Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada

Position

Centre

Shoots

Left

Played for

Chicago Black Hawks
Toronto Maple Leafs
New York Rangers

Lore & Background

In the 1948–49 season, he saw his regular-season points drop to 41, yet he rebounded spectacularly in the playoffs to help secure another title. He scored the third goal in a critical 3–1 win against Detroit that clinched the series. The following year, despite the team missing the Cup, Bentley led Toronto with 23 goals. His offensive resurgence continued into 1950–51, where he posted 62 points to finish third in the league, trailing only Maurice Richard and Gordie Howe. That season culminated in a 13-point playoff performance that tied him with Richard for the NHL lead. Bentley reached a major milestone on November 5, 1952, recording two goals against the Rangers to reach 500 career points, though a back injury subsequently limited him to just 36 games in the 1952–53 season.

Reader's Guide

He joined a team that finished first in the regular season standings in his debut year (1947–48). While he struggled offensively in 1948–49, dropping to 41 points, he proved his playoff value by eliminating Detroit again. His role as a leader was evident when he led the team in goals during 1949–50 and finished third in league scoring in 1950–51 with 62 points. His ability to perform under pressure is best illustrated by the 1951 playoffs, where his 13 points tied him for the NHL lead. Though a back injury curtailed his final years in Toronto, reaching the 500-point milestone in 1952 remains a testament to his consistency. The trade that brought him to Toronto is still cited as one of the most significant in history, highlighting how his skill transformed the franchise's trajectory.

Did You Know?

Bentley reached 500 career points on November 5, 1952, with two goals against the New York Rangers.
He scored the third goal in a 3–1 win that clinched the 1949 Stanley Cup for Toronto.
Bentley contemplated retiring after the 1951–52 season but returned for one final year before moving to New York.