Early Life and Background
Börje Salming, born Anders Börje Salming on April 17, 1951, in Kiruna, Sweden, was one of the most influential defensemen in the history of ice hockey. His upbringing in Kiruna, a small mining town located in the far north of Sweden, played a pivotal role in shaping his character and work ethic. Kiruna’s cold, harsh winters and rugged landscape provided the perfect environment for outdoor ice hockey, where young Börje first began playing the sport that would ultimately change his life.
Salming's father, Erland, worked in the local iron ore mines and died in a tragic accident when Börje was only five years old. This loss deeply impacted the family, particularly Börje, who grew up with a deep sense of responsibility. His mother, Karin, raised Börje and his older brother, Stig, with a focus on resilience, determination, and hard work—traits that would define Börje’s hockey career. Growing up, Salming and his brother would often play hockey on frozen lakes, and the harsh, gritty environment of Kiruna gave him a tough, fearless playing style.
The Start of a Career in Sweden
Salming’s early hockey career took off with Kiruna AIF, a local team where he first displayed his impressive skating, defensive skills, and physicality. He soon caught the attention of scouts from Sweden’s elite leagues and moved to play for Brynäs IF in the Swedish Hockey League (SHL). From 1970 to 1973, Salming honed his skills with Brynäs, winning two league championships (1971 and 1972). He was known for his speed, endurance, and offensive capability as a defenseman—a rare combination at the time.
During his time in Sweden, Salming also played for the national team, earning his first cap in 1972 at the World Championships. His international play solidified his reputation as one of the best defensemen in Europe, attracting interest from North American scouts, especially from the National Hockey League (NHL), which was beginning to open its doors to European players.
Trailblazer in the NHL: Toronto Maple Leafs
In 1973, Börje Salming made the groundbreaking move to the NHL, signing with the Toronto Maple Leafs. This was a time when European players were viewed with skepticism in the NHL, a league dominated by Canadians and Americans. Many believed that European players were too soft to succeed in the more physical and aggressive North American game. Salming, however, quickly proved his critics wrong, becoming not only a trailblazer for Swedish and European players but also one of the most respected defensemen in NHL history.
Salming’s first game in the NHL was a defining moment, as he earned a standing ovation from the Toronto crowd after a standout performance. His fearless playing style, characterized by physicality, grit, and an unyielding determination, resonated with the fans and his teammates. Despite being targeted by opposing players for his European background, Salming never backed down from a challenge. He regularly threw himself in front of shots, played through injuries, and never hesitated to engage in the rough, physical side of the game.
His ability to transition from defense to offense set him apart from many of his peers. Salming was known for his exceptional puck-handling skills, powerful skating, and his remarkable ability to read the game. Over his 16 seasons with the Maple Leafs (1973-1989), he recorded 768 points in 1,099 games, with 148 goals and 620 assists—remarkable numbers for a defenseman. Salming’s contributions were not limited to scoring; his defensive capabilities, combined with his leadership on the ice, made him a cornerstone of the Maple Leafs franchise.
Challenges and Triumphs: Battling Stereotypes and Injuries
Throughout his career, Salming faced numerous challenges, not the least of which was overcoming the bias against European players. He was often subjected to physical targeting and intimidation, but he responded with toughness and grace. One of the most famous incidents occurred during a 1976 game when Salming was accidentally stepped on by an opponent's skate, resulting in over 200 stitches to his face. True to his nature, Salming returned to play just weeks later, further cementing his reputation as one of the toughest players in the league.
Despite these obstacles, Salming's consistent excellence earned him numerous accolades. He was named to the NHL First All-Star Team in 1977 and the Second All-Star Team in 1975, 1976, and 1979. His influence also extended beyond the ice, as he paved the way for future generations of European players. Salming’s success proved that Europeans could not only compete in the NHL but could also thrive and excel at the highest level of the sport.
International Play and Legacy
Salming continued to represent Sweden on the international stage throughout his career. He played in several World Championships and was a key member of the Swedish national team during the inaugural Canada Cup in 1976, where his stellar performance earned him a standing ovation from the notoriously partisan Canadian crowd—a rare and significant honor for a non-Canadian player.
After his time with the Maple Leafs, Salming briefly played for the Detroit Red Wings during the 1989-1990 season before returning to Sweden to finish his career. He retired from professional hockey in 1993 but remained deeply involved in the sport, both in Sweden and abroad.
Salming’s contributions to hockey were recognized in 1996 when he became the first Swedish player inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame. His induction marked a turning point for European players in the NHL, highlighting the growing importance and influence of international talent in the league. Salming was also inducted into the IIHF Hall of Fame in 1998 and was named one of the ‘100 Greatest NHL Players’ in 2017 as part of the league’s centennial celebrations.
In addition to his Hall of Fame inductions, Salming received numerous other honors throughout his career. The Toronto Maple Leafs immortalized him by raising a banner in his honor at the Air Canada Centre (now Scotiabank Arena). In Sweden, Salming was awarded the "Stor Grabb" honor, which is the highest accolade for Swedish athletes, and he remains one of the most beloved sports figures in his home country.
Off the Ice: Life Beyond Hockey
Beyond his accomplishments on the ice, Börje Salming was known for his humility, generosity, and leadership. He used his platform to promote sportsmanship and the development of hockey in Sweden, mentoring young players and giving back to the sport that had given him so much. After retiring, Salming also ventured into business, launching a successful line of sportswear and later expanding into skincare products under the brand "Salming," which reflected his commitment to health, wellness, and active living.
In his personal life, Salming was deeply connected to his roots. He often spoke of his pride in his Sami heritage, the indigenous people of Sweden, and was involved in various initiatives to support the Sami community. His connection to nature, fostered by his upbringing in the northern wilderness, remained a key part of his identity throughout his life.
Final Years and Legacy
In August 2022, Börje Salming was diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), a progressive and incurable neurodegenerative disease. The diagnosis was a devastating blow, but Salming faced the illness with the same courage and resilience that had defined his hockey career. The hockey world rallied around him, and the outpouring of support from fans, former teammates, and players underscored the lasting impact he had on the sport.
Börje Salming passed away on November 24, 2022, at the age of 71. His death marked the end of an era for Swedish hockey and the broader world of professional hockey, but his legacy continues to inspire countless players and fans around the world.
Legacy and Impact on the Game
Börje Salming’s legacy extends far beyond his statistics and accolades. He was a trailblazer who broke down barriers for European players in the NHL and showed that toughness, skill, and dedication know no national boundaries. His influence on the sport, both in Sweden and North America, is immeasurable, as he paved the way for future generations of European players to follow in his footsteps.
His fearless style of play, combined with his skill and grace, revolutionized the role of the defenseman in hockey. Today, Swedish players are among the NHL’s elite, thanks in large part to the path Börje Salming forged in the 1970s and 1980s. Salming remains a symbol of perseverance, humility, and excellence, both in Sweden and around the world.
In his honor, the Börje Salming Trophy is awarded annually to the best Swedish defenseman in the SHL, ensuring that his name and legacy will continue to inspire future generations of hockey players.
