Messier was definitely tough and a leader. I remember his two hander over the top of
Thomas Gradin's helmet in the early 80s. I also recall his heroics when he dropped the gloves off the faceoff against the immortal
Josef Beranek.
Although he has 6 cups (was it just because he was on strong teams?), he also missed the playoffs his last 7 seasons (was it just because he was on weak teams?)! I am sure there has to be some questioning on his leadership with somethng like that!