Middleton’s Number 16 is Headed to the Garden Rafters

Nifty’s #16 Is Being Retired

Bruins fans and media have been wondering who would be the next Bruins player to have his number retired. On July 31st, Bruins President Cam Neely made the call to Richard D. Middleton to announce he would be the next to have that honor.

How Middleton Stacks up in Bruins History

The right-winger played 12 seasons for Boston, scoring 402 goals with 496 assists for 898 points. He had five straight seasons with at least 40 goals. He is currently fourth on the Bruins’ all-time scoring list, behind Bourque, Bucyk and Esposito.

Middleton’s #16 is the 11th number sent to the rafters by the Bruins. Lionel Hitchman, Dit Clapper, Eddie Shore, Milt Schmidt, Bobby Orr, Johnny Bucyk, Phil Esposito, Ray Bourque, Terry O’Reilly, and Cam Neely have also had this honor.

Nifty and Pasta

Middleton got his nickname for his skills when handling the puck and for his highlight goals. Many Pastrnak fans would probably agree that him and Nifty share many similarities. Many highlights of Rick’s highlights resemble David’s moves today. Both can masterfully fake out goaltenders for a goal.

Current Role with the Bruins

Rick Middleton is currently the President of the Bruins Alumni team. Him and other greats such as Bourque and O’Reilly play games across the area to support charities and youth hockey teams.

The date for the retirement ceremony is November 29th, before the Bruins face the Islanders.

Follow on Twitter: @SOURCEFRIAS