The NHL's Tough Players

The 2009 NHL playoffs will showcase players who echo past stars celebrated for their toughness. No one embodied that attribute more than Mr. Hockey. The Hall of Famer suffered a skull fracture in 1950 but played for a record 26 NHL seasons, scoring 801 goals and 1,850 points while winning six MVP awards and four Stanley Cups. A ''Gordie Howe Hat Trick'' is his signature goal, assist and fight in the same game.

Red Wings' defenseman Chris Chelios still plays a vital if limited role at age 47 in his 25th NHL season. No blueliner has skated in more games (1,644) than Chelios, who's been known to dish a little punishment while winning three Stanley Cups and three Norris Trophies.