FLASHBACK: Pierre Turgeon (2007)

Originally aired October 7th, 2007 on WGBB's NEW YORK HOCKEY TALK.

NY Hockey Talk host Rob Kowal talks with former New York Islanders center Pierre Turgeon in October 2007, just a month after his retirement. Turgeon begins by talking about representing Canada in the Little League World Series as as 12 year old back in 1982.

Pierre then talks about breaking in to the National Hockey League just 6 years later with the Buffalo Sabres. He talked about the expectations that went along with being a #1 draft pick, and some of the players and coaches on the Sabres that helped him adapt and adjust to the differences between playing in juniors compared to the NHL. Pierre also talked about the pressure on top picks today compared to when he played, considering the increased media scrutiny today. Pierre recalled what he felt when he was dealt to the Islanders in 1991 along with Uwe Krupp, Benoit Hogue and Dave McLlwain for Pat LaFontaine, Randy Wood and Randy Hillier.

Pierre reminisced how much enjoyed playing on Long Island, and the tremendous amount he learned playing for Islanders head coach Al Arbour. Rob and Pierre also discussed the Islanders run to the Conference Finals in 1992-93, and the hit he took in the semi-finals from the Capitals Dale Hunter.

Turgeon talks about getting traded to the Canadiens, being named their captain, and being a part of the team during the closing of the Montreal Forum and the opening of the Molson Centre. Pierre talks about what it's like getting traded, and the different cities he played in during his 19 year career. He also talked about the most talented guy he played with, and which player he had the best chemistry with during his long career. He was also quick to answer a question about who he considers to be his funniest teammate over the years. Pierre closed things out talking about some of what he plans to do in retirement.