Dave Semenko
Canadian ice hockey player (1957–2017)
Why this is trending
Interest in “Dave Semenko” spiked on Wikipedia on 2026-06-03.
Categorised under Sports, this article fits a familiar pattern. Sports articles typically spike during championship events, record-breaking performances, or high-profile transfers and controversies.
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Key Takeaways
- David John Semenko (July 12, 1957 – June 29, 2017) was a Canadian professional ice hockey player, coach, scout, and colour commentator.
- During his tenure with Edmonton, he notably protected Wayne Gretzky as an "on-ice bodyguard" during Gretzky's early career.
- He was also the last player to score a goal in the World Hockey Association (WHA) before it folded and merged with the NHL.
- Semenko died on June 29, 2017, from liver and pancreatic cancer.
- He was originally selected 25th overall in 1977 by the Minnesota North Stars of the NHL and the Houston Aeros of the World Hockey Association (WHA).
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Source summary
WikipediaDavid John Semenko (July 12, 1957 – June 29, 2017) was a Canadian professional ice hockey player, coach, scout, and colour commentator. During his National Hockey League (NHL) career, Semenko played for the Edmonton Oilers, Hartford Whalers and Toronto Maple Leafs as an enforcer. During his tenure with Edmonton, he notably protected Wayne Gretzky as an "on-ice bodyguard" during Gretzky's early career. Semenko won two Stanley Cups with the Oilers in 1984 and 1985. He was also the last player to score a goal in the World Hockey Association (WHA) before it folded and merged with the NHL.
Following his retirement as a player, he became a radio commentator of Oilers' games. Semenko died on June 29, 2017, from liver and pancreatic cancer.
Semenko played junior hockey for the Brandon Wheat Kings. He was originally selected 25th overall in 1977 by the Minnesota North Stars of the NHL and the Houston Aeros of the World Hockey Association (WHA).
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