1991-92 – 2000-01 – Number Retired on February 3, 2009
One of the most popular figures to ever wear the Blueshirt, Adam Graves spent 10 years with the Rangers, setting a benchmark in professional sports for excellence both on and off the ice. Graves retired as a player in 2003 following a 16-year career, finishing with 329 goals and 287 assists for 616 points.
The two-time Rangers’ MVP (’93, ’94) will always be best known for his achievements and contributions to the Rangers’ magical 1994 Stanley Cup team, helping break a 54-year championship drought. Graves set the Rangers’ single-season record for goals in the 1993-94 season, tallying 52 goals to break Vic Hadfield’s 22-year mark of 50. His remarkable achievements during that storied season earned him an appearance in the NHL All-Star Game, and he was named as a NHL Second Team All-Star.
Graves’ accomplishments on the ice were matched only by his contributions off the ice, as is evident by his numerous awards and accolades celebrating his work in the community. He was recognized by the NHL with its King Clancy Memorial Trophy in 1994, as well as the NHL Player Foundation award in 2000. In 2001, the Professional Hockey Writers Association honored Graves with the Bill Masterton Trophy.
Outside his numerous league and team awards, Graves has been recognized with honors from countless organizations and publications for his achievements in the community, including USA Weekend’s “Most Caring Athlete” Award, Sports Illustrated for Kids’ “Good Sport” Award and The Sporting News’ “Good Guy” Award.
Graves returned to the Rangers on July 19, 2005, in a unique dual role that uses his myriad of abilities in both the on-ice and off-ice areas of the organization. In this multi-faceted capacity, Graves is a key element in the development of the team’s prospects while continuing to develop and execute the organization’s many community outreach initiatives.