13 Jul GETTING TO KNOW NY RANGERS – JEWISH DEFENSEMAN ADAM FOX
FAST FACTS:
Name: Adam Fox
Born: February 17, 1998 (age 23) in Jericho, New York
Height: 5 ft 11 in
Weight: 181 lb
Position: Defense
Shoots: Right NHL
Draft: 55th overall, 2016 Calgary Flames
College: Harvard University
Major: Psychology
2021 Salary: $925,000
The New York Rangers defenseman, Adam Fox last Tuesday won the NHL’s 2020-21 Norris Trophy winner, becoming the fourth player in franchise history to win the prestigious award. He joins Doug Harvey (1961-62), Harry Howell (1966-67) and Brian Leetch, who won it twice in 1991-92 and 1996-97. More notably, Fox joined Boston Bruins legend Bobby Orr as one of only two second-year players to claim the award given to the NHL’s top defenseman. Orr did it 1967-68, the first of an NHL-record eight Norris Trophies, with Fox matching the impressive feat 53 years later.
Adam Fox grew up in Nassau County on the north shore of Long Island just 30 minutes from midtown Manhattan, which is a prime reason he has always followed the exploits of the New York Rangers.
Two Shabbosim ago, there was a special kiddush made at the Jericho Jewish Center in honor of their simcha occasion.
How did it feel to win the NHL’s 2020-21 Norris Trophy?
It’s special. I’ve been throwing that word around a lot the past few weeks and I just think it’s accurate for how I feel. Those are two of the greatest defensemen ever Brian Leetch and Bobby Orr, and if you hear your name with those guys, it’s always going to be a special thing to hear.
Tell us about this past season. I think from my rookie year to this year I just tried to gain more trust, I think people knew I could be an offensive player but I wanted to have a little more responsibility and obviously was trusted this year killing penalties and being out there in defensive situations a little more. I think it helped me. I just tried to play my best game-in and game-out and help the team win. I think personal success comes from that. The next step is just team success.
How old were you when you started skating?
My dad put me on skates when I was about three years old. We used to skate at the New York Islanders’ practice rink called ‘Iceworks’. My dad was a big hockey fan, and I have an older brother who played. For as long as I can remember, I had a hockey stick in my hand.
How do you like playing in New York city?
I’m still learning the subway. I definitely know how to take the train to the Tribeca area to get meals with some of the guys, but I definitely think without my phone I’d get lost.
What teams did you root for growing up?
Besides the Rangers, I liked the Jets and the Mets. I was a big David Wright fan growing up.
How did it feel when you found out that you were a New York Ranger?
I was definitely in a little bit of disbelief. It’s the team that I grew up rooting for. When I heard, I had to take a moment to take it in. It was definitely cool when I got that call. I’m very happy to be playing near my family & friends.
What drives you?
I guess people that have helped me get to this point. It kinda motivates me to do well and know that they helped me get here.
What would you say is your on ice mentality?
I always try to be calm. I try to be poised with the puck and make the right decision.
How do you feel about being one of the few Jewish hockey players?
It’s definitely nice to represent a community, for sure.