Hockey great stan (6) - Crossword Clue
Answer: MIKITA
Stan Mikita: The Answer Explained
- Stan Mikita is the legendary Chicago Blackhawks center whose six-letter surname perfectly fits this crossword puzzle clue.
- Born Stanislav Gvoth in Slovakia in 1940, Mikita became one of hockey's most innovative and accomplished players during his 22-season NHL career, all spent with Chicago.
Why MIKITA Fits This Clue
- The crossword clue "Hockey great Stan (6)" directly references Stan Mikita's first name while indicating you need a six-letter answer.
- Mikita won the Hart Trophy as NHL MVP twice (1967, 1968), claimed four Art Ross Trophies as scoring champion, and revolutionized the game by popularizing the curved hockey stick blade.
- His number 21 jersey was retired by the Blackhawks, and he entered the Hockey Hall of Fame in 1983.
Tips for Solving Hockey Crossword Clues
- Look for first name hints: When a clue includes a first name like "Stan," it significantly narrows your options among hockey legends.
- Count the letters carefully: The number in parentheses (6) tells you exactly how many letters the answer requires, eliminating many possibilities.
- Remember team associations: Stan Mikita spent his entire career with Chicago, making him the definitive Blackhawks answer.
- Consider the era: Mid-century hockey greats like Mikita appear frequently in crosswords because their names fit common letter patterns.
- Think about Hall of Famers: Crossword constructors favor legendary players with straightforward spellings and recognizable achievements.
Hockey great stan (6) - 7 Little Words - FAQs
Q: Why is Stan Mikita called a "hockey great"?
Stan Mikita earned this designation through his two Hart Trophies, four scoring titles, and 1,467 career points, ranking him among the NHL's top 25 all-time scorers.
Q: What made Stan Mikita innovative?
Mikita popularized the curved hockey stick blade after accidentally discovering its advantages, forever changing shooting techniques in hockey.
Q: How long did Stan Mikita play in the NHL?
He played 22 seasons (1958-1980), all with the Chicago Blackhawks, demonstrating rare loyalty and longevity.
Q: Are there other six-letter hockey surnames in crosswords?
Yes, but "MIKITA" is the specific answer when the clue references "Stan" directly, making this combination unique.
Q: When was Stan Mikita inducted into the Hall of Fame?
The Hockey Hall of Fame inducted Stan Mikita in 1983, recognizing his extraordinary contributions to the sport.
