Cliff Ronning

Lore & Background

Cliff Ronning arrived in Vancouver via a trade with the St. Louis Blues in 1990, and immediately injected a spark into the Canucks' offense. Standing just 5'8", he defied expectations with his elusive skating and deadly accurate shot, often setting up linemates like Pavel Bure and Greg Adams. His creativity on the power play and ability to perform in clutch moments made him indispensable during the team's transformation into a contender. Ronning's finest hour came during the 1994 playoffs, where he tallied 11 points in 24 games, helping the Canucks reach Game 7 of the Stanley Cup Final. His overtime winner against the Calgary Flames in the first round remains a cherished moment in franchise lore. Though undersized, he never backed down from physical play, earning respect across the league. Off the ice, Ronning was known for his quiet demeanor and dedication to community work, embodying the underdog spirit of Vancouver. His number 7 was not retired, but his legacy endures as a symbol of the team's gritty, never-say-die identity during a golden era.

In Their Own Story

The roar of Pacific Coliseum swallowed the arena as Cliff Ronning gathered the puck behind the net. Sweat dripped from his brow, his small frame a blur against the towering Flames defenders. With a swift pivot, he darted into the slot, stickhandling through a forest of legs. The crowd held its breath—then erupted as his wrist shot sailed past the goalie's glove. In that moment, Ronning wasn't just a player; he was the heartbeat of a city dreaming of glory.

Reader's Guide

The image that makes a fan gasp: Cliff Ronning celebrating an overtime goal, arms raised, the Pacific Coliseum crowd a sea of white. His peak years were 1991 to 1994, when he averaged over 60 points per season and anchored the second line. Ronning's role in the team's identity was as the crafty underdog—proof that skill and heart could overcome size. Off-ice, he was a regular at local charity events, often seen at Vancouver children's hospitals. The city still honors him through highlight reels and the enduring memory of that 1994 playoff run, a testament to his indelible mark on Canucks history.

Did You Know?

• Cliff Ronning scored the overtime winner in Game 7 of the 1994 first round against the Calgary Flames—a goal that still echoes in Canucks lore.
• At 5'8", he was the smallest player in the NHL during his tenure with the Canucks, yet led the team in assists in the 1992–93 season with 56.
• Ronning was a key part of the 'Pavel Bure line' that terrorized opponents in the early 1990s, often setting up Bure's highlight-reel goals.
• He later played for the Phoenix Coyotes, Nashville Predators, and New York Islanders, but is most remembered for his Canucks years, where his number 7 remains a beloved symbol of an era.