Some odds and ends
As we wrap up a look at past Ranger nicknames, there are a few standouts worth mentioning. One thing is guaranteed, if you play bigger than your size you are likely to get a nickname.
Todd “Heartbeat” Harvey – Harvey was an overachieving forward who played for the Rangers from 1998-2000. Not gifted with fine skills he became a fan favorite because of his willingness to sacrifice his body for the benefit of the team. For his brief stint on Broadway, he was indeed the “heartbeat” of the team.
Jerry “Bugsy” Butler – Butler was another overachieving forward. In 1974-75 he won the hearts of Ranger fans by scoring 17 goals and totaling 102 penalty minutes.
Pat “Little Ball of Hate” Verbeek – At only 5’9″, Pat Verbeek wasn’t big, but he was a was a great goal scorer. One of the only good players on the early New Jersey Devils teams, he scored 51 goals in 88 games as a Ranger. He got the nickname from teammate Glenn Healy who apparently also named Ray Ferraro the “Big Ball of Hate.”
Juha “Whitey” Widing – Widing played 44 games for the Rangers in 1969-70. His nickname wasn’t taken from his last name, but from the Finn’s long blonde hair.
Steve “Sarge” Vickers – After winning the Calder Trophy as top rookie in 1972-73, the nickname “Sarge” was bestowed upon him by teammate Pete “Stemmer” Stemkowski when he wore an army shirt to practice.