Gennady Tsygankov

Gennady Tsygankov was a steady blueliner who appeared in all 8 of the 1972 Summit Series games. He collected two assists, including one on Valeri Kharlamov's spectacular shorthanded goal in game number three.

Advanced scouting suggested Tsygankov was to be expected to be Russia's top offensive force from the blueline. But the Canadian forwards did a great job of pressuring the Soviet rearguards and keeping them busy checking rather than scoring.

The advanced scouting likely was incorrect. Tysgankov was actually more of a defensive defenseman and an excellent penalty killer. He was as strong as an ox, and described by one source as the ultimate team guy in the Soviet system.

Tsygankov was a two time Olympic gold medalist and 6 time world champion. He passed away February 16th, 2006.