Born in Red Deer, Alberta, Tinordi played junior with the WHL's Lethbridge Broncos and Calgary Wranglers. He was signed as a free agent by the New York Rangers prior to the 1987-88 season. Tinordi spent two years with the organization where he provided grit and thunderous bodychecks in the NHL and with the Colorado Rangers of the CHL.
The big rearguard's career took off after he was part of a multi-player deal with the Minnesota North Stars in October 1988. Tinordi became a bruising hitter and defensive leader on the club as it reached the Stanley Cup finals in 1991. A capable point man on the power play, Tinordi played a bit more offense in 1992-93 and responded with 15 goals. He took over from Curt Giles as team captain in 1991-92 and remained with the franchise when it relocated to Dallas the next season.
Prior to the lockout-shortened season in 1995, Tinordi was traded to the Washington Capitals to add a physical dimension to the fast skating club. He often battled injuries but was solid when healthy. Tinordi's grit and leadership was an important factor in the Caps' march to their first Stanley Cup finals appearance in 1998. He retired after playing 48 games and battling injuries in 1998-99.
Player bios courtesy of the Hockey Hall of Fame
