McLean was important in ‘94 not only for his nearly-miraculous game performances, but his calm demeanor. Media and teammates have consistently made a point of saying that nothing much rattled the goalie, least of all hockey. And according to Pelletier, this was an asset he brought to the Canucks long before that amazing playoff run.

“One of the coolest customers you’ll ever meet, McLean seemed unflappable, even in the early years with Vancouver when the team was extremely weak.”

McLean played what was already a dying goalie style, standing up and facing his opponents eye-to-eye, relying on positional play rather than down low butterfly techniques so much more popular today. Ultimately he went on to play for a variety of different teams before eventually retiring in 2001.

As Vancouver fans know, McLean now works for the Canucks as a commentator on pay-per-view broadcasts.

The video below was part of Global TV’s series on the best Canucks in history, and captures some amazing highlights of his greatest games. If you have the time, give it a look.

Just a final thought: it’s impossible to watch that video and read these tributes, and not recognize the importance of Roberto Luongo to the Canucks—and the opportunities that kind of talent can afford this team in the coming months.