Biography
Ray Neufeld, born on April 15, 1959, in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, is a retired Canadian ice hockey forward who had a notable career in the National Hockey League (NHL) and the World Hockey Association (WHA). He was drafted 15th overall by the Minnesota North Stars in the 1979 NHL Entry Draft after a successful junior career, which included playing for the Saskatoon Blades in the Western Canada Junior Hockey League. Neufeld made his NHL debut in the 1979-80 season and quickly became known for his scoring ability and tenacity on the ice.
During his professional career, Neufeld played for several teams, including the Minnesota North Stars, the Winnipeg Jets, and the New Jersey Devils in the NHL. He also had a significant tenure with the Indianapolis Racers and the Birmingham Bulls in the WHA. Over the course of his career, he accumulated a total of 165 points in 519 NHL games and contributed to his teams with strong performances during key moments.
Neufeld's legacy in ice hockey is marked by his contributions to the sport during a transformative era when the WHA merged with the NHL. His competitive spirit and determination on the ice earned him a respected place among players of his time, and he is remembered as a significant figure in the history of Canadian hockey. After retiring from professional play, Neufeld remained involved in the sport through coaching and mentorship roles, influencing future generations of players.