Rick Martin

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NHL draft 5th overall 1971
French Connection

About Rick Martin

Rick Martin: The Heart and Soul of Buffalo Sabres Hockey

When Buffalo hockey fans reminisce about the glory days of the 1970s, one name always stands out—Rick Martin. Born on July 26, 1951, in Verdun, Quebec, Martin became a Buffalo Sabres legend during his decade-long tenure with the team. Known for his incredible goal-scoring ability, unmatched swagger, and role on the legendary French Connection line, Martin’s contributions helped transform the Sabres into a competitive force. To this day, Martin holds a special place in the hearts of Sabres fans and remains a true icon in Buffalo sports history.

Rising to Stardom

Rick Martin’s path to Buffalo began with his dazzling junior hockey career with the Montreal Junior Canadiens, where his offensive prowess made him a standout. Selected fifth overall in the 1971 NHL Amateur Draft by the Buffalo Sabres, Martin made an immediate impact, quickly proving why the expansion team took a chance on this talented left winger.

Martin’s rookie season was nothing short of phenomenal. He scored 44 goals, an NHL record for a first-year left winger at the time, and his fearless approach on the ice endeared him to both fans and teammates. Beyond his stats, Martin’s scoring touch and dynamic play injected excitement into the franchise, setting the stage for a golden era of Sabres hockey.

The French Connection

Rick Martin’s legacy is inseparable from his role on the French Connection, one of the most legendary forward lines in NHL history. Paired with center Gilbert Perreault and right winger René Robert, Martin made up one-third of a trio that dazzled opposing teams with its speed, creativity, and offensive firepower.

The French Connection’s chemistry was unparalleled. Martin’s booming slapshot and ability to finish around the net complemented Perreault’s playmaking and Robert’s tenacity. Together, the trio dominated the NHL, piling up points and propelling the Sabres to their first Stanley Cup Finals appearance in 1975. Even though the team fell short of winning the Cup, the French Connection cemented itself as one of the most iconic lines in hockey history, and Martin was at the heart of their success.

Over his time with the Sabres, Martin scored an impressive 384 goals and added 317 assists for 701 career points in 685 games. His scoring consistency was nothing short of remarkable, with five seasons of 44 or more goals, including back-to-back 52-goal campaigns in 1973-74 and 1974-75. To this day, Martin holds numerous Sabres franchise records, including 40-goal seasons and consecutive 50-goal seasons.

A Player for the Ages

Rick Martin wasn’t just a prolific scorer—he was a fan favorite and the life of the locker room. With his flashy playing style and big personality, Martin brought a swagger to the Sabres that mirrored Buffalo’s blue-collar spirit. He delighted fans with his goal-scoring celebrations and spirited interviews, creating a connection with the community that went beyond the rink.

Martin’s individual accolades further highlight his greatness. He was named to the NHL First All-Star Team in back-to-back seasons (1973-74 and 1974-75) and appeared in seven consecutive NHL All-Star Games from 1972 to 1978. His place among the league’s elite left wings was undeniable, and his contributions to the Sabres elevated the team to new heights.

A Lasting Legacy

Unfortunately, Martin’s career was cut short by a knee injury in 1980, but his impact on Buffalo hockey never faded. Upon retiring, he joined Perreault and Robert in the Buffalo Sabres Hall of Fame in 1989, a fitting tribute to the line that electrified fans for nearly a decade.

The Sabres retired Martin’s #7 jersey in 1995, placing it alongside Perreault’s #11 and Robert’s #14 under the French Connection banner. This gesture ensured that Martin’s contributions would never be forgotten and that every Sabres fan would remember the golden era he helped create.

After Rick Martin’s untimely passing in 2011, the Sabres paid tribute by painting the number 7 behind each net at KeyBank Center for the remainder of the season. Today, his legacy is immortalized in the French Connection statue outside the arena, a gathering place for fans to reflect on one of the most exciting eras in team history.

Why Buffalo Still Loves Rick Martin

Rick Martin’s greatness wasn’t just about the goals he scored—it was about the joy and passion he brought to the ice. He played with a confidence and flair that resonated with Buffalo fans, who appreciated his determination and love for the game.

To this day, Rick Martin remains a beloved figure, a testament to the power of sports to create lasting memories and unite a community. His contributions to the Sabres and his role in the French Connection made him a Buffalo icon in every sense of the word.

Though he may be gone, Rick Martin’s legacy lives on in the hearts of Sabres fans and the banners that hang proudly in KeyBank Center. For Buffalo, he wasn’t just a player—he was family. And his remarkable career will forever be a cherished part of the city’s sports history.