Dit Clapper
Inducted:
1947
Player Stats
6 ft 0 in (183 cm)
183 lb (83 kg; 13 st 1 lb)
Born:
February 9, 1907
Newmarket, Ontario, Canada
Died:
January 20, 1978
Peterborough, Ontario, Canada
Position:
Right Wing
Defence
College:
NA
Dit Clapper was one of the most versatile and durable players in NHL history, excelling as both a defenseman and forward during his 21-season career with the Boston Bruins from 1927 to 1947. Known for his exceptional skating, intelligence, and leadership, Clapper could dominate at both ends of the ice, contributing offensively while maintaining rock-solid defensive play.
He played a key role in the Bruins’ Stanley Cup championships in 1929, 1939, and 1941, earning respect as a team leader and captain. Clapper was among the league’s top scorers as a forward and one of the most dependable defensemen when moved back on the blue line, showcasing rare versatility. His remarkable longevity, consistency, and all-around skill made him a model professional. Dit Clapper’s outstanding contributions to the NHL were recognized with his induction into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 1947.
Clapper's Awards and Record:
- 3x Stanley Cup Champion (1929, 1939, 1941)
- 3x NHL First All-Star Team (1939, 1940, 1941 - as Defenseman)
- 2x NHL Second All-Star Team (1931, 1935 - as Right Wing)
- NHL Record: First player to play 20 seasons
- NHL First All-Star Team selections multiple times
- Played in NHL All-Star memorial games (1937, 1939)
- Last active NHL position player that played during the 1920s
NHL Teams
Boston Bruins (1927-1947)
Number Worn:
5
NHL Stats
Season Played:
20 (1927-1947)
Games Played:
835
Goals:
229
Assists:
248
Points:
477
Penalty Minutes:
452
Playoff Game:
82
Playoff Points:
29 (G-13, A-16)
Stanley Cup:
3 (1929, 1939, 1941)