On July 4, 1994, the Calgary Flames executed a blockbuster transaction that sent veteran defenseman Al MacInnis to the St. Louis Blues in exchange for American-born blueliner Phil Housley.
Al MacInnis arrived in St. Louis with a résumé that included a Conn Smythe Trophy earned in the 1989 Stanley Cup Final, a 20‑goal season, and more than 70 points in multiple campaigns, having amassed 822 points in 803 games for Calgary.
Phil Housley, whose career spanned multiple franchises, finished as the highest‑scoring American‑born defender with 1,232 points in 1,495 games and earned five Norris Trophy finalist nods.
The Trade's Immediate Aftermath
The deal also included two draft selections that Calgary used to bring Steve Begin and John Tripp into the organization, while the Blues gained a proven leader whose impact would be recognized with a jersey retirement in 2006.
Beyond the two headline acts, the move resonated through the league, drawing attention from other prominent figures such as Dale Hawerchuk, Keith Tkachuk, Brad May, Nelson Emerson, Stephane Quintal, Patrick Kane, Brett Hull, Mike Modano, and John Tripp.