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The 1976 Canada Cup Forgotten Hockey Team and The Death of Lionel Taylor - The Sports Lunatics


Photo: 1976 Team Canada/Denis Brodeur
Photo: 1976 Team Canada/Denis Brodeur

This week on The Sports Lunatics Show, Shawn and Howie take a deep dive into one of the most overlooked chapters in Canadian sports history: the legendary 1976 Canada Cup.


While most fans instantly recall the drama of the 1972 Canada-Russia Summit Series or the miracle of Team USA’s 1980 Olympic triumph, the 1976 Canada Cup often gets lost in the shuffle. But as the guys argue, it might just feature the greatest hockey team ever assembled.


🏆 The 1976 Canada Cup: Hockey Royalty on Ice

  • 18 Hall of Famers. Yes, you read that right. The Canadian roster was stacked with legends like Bobby Orr, Guy Lafleur, Phil Esposito, and Denis Potvin.

  • A tournament that changed the game. It was the first true best-on-best international competition, setting the stage for future global showdowns.

  • Shawn and Howie’s personal memories. From the electric atmosphere to the unforgettable plays, the guys share what it felt like to witness hockey history in real time.

  • Legacy and impact. How did this tournament shape the way we view international hockey today? The hosts explore its influence on everything from Olympic formats to the World Cup of Hockey.


Photo: Lionel Taylor/Denver Broncos
Photo: Lionel Taylor/Denver Broncos

In the second half of the show, Shawn and Howie shift gears to honor one of football’s unsung heroes: Lionel Taylor.


  • A pioneer of the passing game. Taylor was the first receiver in pro football history to record 100 catches in a season—a feat that helped redefine offensive strategy.

  • A mentor and inspiration. His influence extended beyond the field, shaping the careers of coaches and players who would go on to revolutionize the game.

  • Why his legacy matters today. The guys reflect on how Taylor’s contributions still resonate in today’s pass-heavy NFL and CFL.


    Whether you're a die-hard hockey historian or a football fan looking to learn more about the roots of the modern game, this episode is packed with insight, nostalgia, and passionate debate.


Tune in now to The Sports Lunatics Show—where sports history lives and legends never fade.


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