![]() When Rod was on the operating table, he says he had an out-of-body experience. The bone graft from Gilbert’s first spinal fusion broke, and a second operation needed to be performed. ![]() However, Gilbert’s rise to stardom was countered with a final setback, one which almost cost him his life. “He had great looks, talent, and acclimatized himself to Broadway as well as any player did in the Big Apple.” “Rod was the quintessential New York hockey player,” longtime broadcaster and author Stan Fischler proclaims. Gilbert embraced New York, and the city embraced him. He led the team in goals and points for the first time in 1964-65 with 25 and 61, respectively, and played in his second all-star game. Rangers Beat Bruins 7-4, Jump to Top of League StandingsĪlthough the Rangers struggled in the mid-1960s, Rod was the bright spot.Rangers Not Missing Ryan Reaves’ Toughness.Rangers News & Rumors: Fox, Kakko, Chytil & Roster Moves.Rangers’ Depth Takes Hit With Chytil & Kakko Injuries.Panarin’s Scorching Start Adds to Complicated Rangers Legacy.Gilbert made a name for himself during the 1963-64 season - his second full campaign - when the 22-year-old right winger finished second on the Rangers in points with 64, and was selected to his first all-star team. Gilbert played one regular-season game for the Blueshirts during the 1960-62 seasons. Fortunately for Rod, the operation was successful, and the Rangers top prospect was back on the ice. Gilbert was told that in order to walk again - let alone play hockey - he needed to have a spinal fusion. As Gilbert recalls, “some people threw debris on the ice and I slipped on something and fell into the boards. The first came during the 1959-60 season, Rod’s third with the Biltmores. However, Gilbert’s future was almost derailed by two setbacks. “By the second or third practice, I said to myself this guy is going to be the future of the New York Rangers,” Francis said. In his final year at the junior ranks, Gilbert played for his future coach with the Blueshirts, Emile “The Cat” Francis. Gilbert flourished alongside Ratelle in junior hockey, totaling 256 points in his final three seasons with Guelph.
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