THE STORY
On May 29, 1996, during Game 6 of the Western Conference Finals, Colorado Avalanche forward Claude Lemieux checked Detroit Red Wings center Kris Draper from behind into the boards. Draper sustained a broken jaw, nose, and cheekbone, along with a concussion, requiring reconstructive surgery. The Avalanche won the game 4-1, clinching the series 4-2 and advancing to the Stanley Cup Final.
TEAMS / PEOPLE:
NHL teams and players
WHY IT MATTERS
This incident intensified the rivalry between the Avalanche and Red Wings, leading to the infamous 'Brawl in Hockeytown' on March 26, 1997.