Dave Balon

David Alexander Balon (August 2, 1938 – May 29, 2007) was a Canadian professional ice hockey player and coach. He played 14 seasons in the National Hockey League between 1959 and 1973, along with nine games in the World Hockey Association, before multiple sclerosis led to his retirement.

Balon played his junior hockey for the Prince Albert Mintos of the SJHL before turning professional in 1958 and joining the New York Rangers farm system. He made his NHL debut in the 1959–60 season with a three-game callup to the Rangers. Over the next two years he was a frequent call-up, appearing in 43 more games and recording 5 goals and 18 points. In 1962–63 he established himself as a full-time member of the Rangers, appearing in all 70 games and recording 11 goals and 24 points.

For the 1963–64 season, Balon was dealt to the Montreal Canadiens in a seven-player trade involving Hall of Fame goalies Jacques Plante and Gump Worsley. He had an outstanding season in Montreal, finishing with 24 goals, third on the team, and 42 points. He had another solid season in 1964–65, posting 41 points and helping Montreal to the Stanley Cup championship.