We resume our Best Number in NY series with the Number 9. Here are the nominees from each NY sports team:
Clark Gillies (Islanders), Andy Bathgate (Rangers), Lawrence Tynes (Giants), John Hall (Jets), Todd Hundley (Mets), Roger Maris (Yankees), Dave Stallworth (Knicks)
Clark Gillies is the pick here. The Hall of Famer played an important role in the Islanders’ 1980s dynasty. Gillies did everything. He could score goals, be physical, and stand up for his teammates by fighting. Gillies was a key contributor to all 4 cups, and his number 9 is hanging from the rafters.
Honorable Mention: Andy Bathgate
Andy Bathgate played with the Rangers for 9 years, leading the NHL in points one year during that span. Bathgate’s number nine was worn by just one more player, Adam Graves (who could’ve made Honorable Mention is it wasn’t for Bathgate). Although Bathgate never won a cup with the Rangers, he is one of the best players in their history, and certainly one of the best Number Nines in NY Sports History.
TheDyspatch 