Hilliard Graves

October 18, 1950

Hilliard Graves

(Photo;pinterest.com)

Born in Saint John, New Brunswick, Graves spent two years with the Charlottetown Islanders of the PEI junior league. He was signed as a free agent by the California Golden Seals prior to the 1970-71 season then split his time between the NHL and AHL before injuries ended his season.

Right-winger Graves spent parts of nine NHL seasons with four different clubs in the 70s and 80s. He was an above average goal scorer who could handle defensive assignments effectively.

After a solid year with the AHL's Baltimore Clippers in 1971-72, Graves scored 27 goals in his first full NHL season. He formed the club's most consistent line with Ivan Boldirev and Gary Croteau. After a sub-par sophomore season he was traded to the Atlanta Flames for John Stewart. Graves spent a little over two seasons in Dixie as a versatile forward then was traded to the Vancouver Canucks in December, 1976. In 1977-78 he registered his second 20-goal season while playing with linemates Ron Sedlbauer and Chris Oddleifson.

Graves' totals dropped off in 1978-79 and he was left unprotected in the Expansion Draft following the WHA/NHL merger. The veteran winger was claimed by the Winnipeg Jets and was a utility player in 35 games during the 1979-80 season before retiring. He played 556 games in the National Hockey League, scoring 118 goals, 163 assist, 281 points and 209 penalty minutes. During his career he was known for having a devastating hip check.