Real Cloutier

Professional hockey fans recognize Real "Buddy" Cloutier as a legendary figure because of his outstanding scoring skills and his ability to create scoring opportunities for teammates. Real Cloutier was born on July 30, 1956 in Sainte-Émélie, Quebec and started his hockey career with the Quebec Remparts in the QMJHL where he set a league record with 216 points that still stands today.

Cloutier started his professional career in the World Hockey Association (WHA) with the Quebec Nordiques before establishing himself as one of the league's top players. During his five-year WHA career he scored 283 goals and provided 283 assists in 369 games which placed him fourth on the league's all-time scoring list. The Bill Hunter Trophy for leading scorer in the WHA went to Cloutier twice during his career (1977 and 1979) while he received multiple All-Star team selections.

After the WHA-NHL merger Cloutier joined the Quebec Nordiques and Buffalo Sabres in the NHL. During the 1980 NHL All-Star Game Cloutier received his selection and he maintained his offensive production by scoring 344 points throughout his 318 NHL games. Cloutier made history by becoming the second NHL player to score three goals in his first professional game thus making an immediate impact on the league.

The people of Quebec City honored Real Cloutier by installing a bronze sculpture at Place Jean-Béliveau in 2021. The tribute honors his athletic achievements and his role as a beloved figure in the community.

Through his exceptional abilities and dedication Real Cloutier created a lasting impact on hockey that continues to inspire both players and fans throughout the generations.