He paved the way A new biography captures the fighting spirit of Canucks legend Gino Odjick

"Gino: The Fighting Spirit of Gino Odjick," authored by Patrick Johnston and Peter Leech, captures the essence of the late Vancouver Canucks enforcer who passed away at 52. Known for his fighting prowess, Odjick holds the franchise record for penalty minutes, earning the monikers "Algonquin Assassin" and "Maniwaki Mauler. " Beyond hockey, he served as a role model for Indigenous athletes, often reflecting on his humble beginnings with the phrase, "I'm just a kid from the rez. " His friendship with Canucks star Pavel Bure highlights the unique bond they shared, with Odjick even naming one of his sons after him. The biography also addresses the complexities of Odjick's personal life, revealing he fathered eight children.

Johnston notes that Odjick's impact on young Indigenous players, including Ethan Bear and Micheal Ferland, remains significant. By bridging eras in Canucks history, Odjick played a vital role in the team's evolution during the early 1990s. His story underscores the importance of loyalty, friendship, and hard work in sports and life.