The inside scoop on the 1960s Toronto Maple Leafs and the California Seals from one hockey's most colorful characters.

Episode 54 of the PHA podcast features part one of our two-part discussion with Gary"Suitcase" Smith, one of the NHL’s premier goaltenders — and most fascinating characters — of the 1960s and 1970s.

In the episode, Gary gives us amazing and humorous insights into his first two big league stops in Oakland and Toronto as well as his junior career with the Toronto Marlboros.

Also know as “Axe” for his stick-wielding ways, Gary was the co-winner of the Vezina Trophy in 1971–72 with Chicago , an NHL All Star in 1975 with Vancouver and a AVCO Cup champion with the Winnipeg Jets in 1979. In addition to his on-ice accomplishments, Gary is remembered as a fun-loving and colorful netminder, who was popular with teammates and fans alike.

If you love classic hockey, you’ll love this discussion with Gary Smith. He holds nothing back and reveals sensational never-before-told stories from hockey’s classic era. You'll enjoy his recollections of many hockey legends including Harry Howell, Carl Vadnais, Don Cherry, Punch Imlach and many more.

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