Overview

John Edward Schella (May 9, 1947 – August 3, 2018) was a Canadian professional ice hockey player who competed at the top levels of the sport in the 1970s. He is best known for appearances in both the National Hockey League (NHL) and the World Hockey Association (WHA), a major rival league of the NHL during that decade. Schella's career included time with the NHL's Vancouver Canucks and several seasons with the WHA's Houston Aeros.

Playing career and timeline

Schella reached the NHL in 1970 and made his debut with Vancouver, spending parts of two seasons with the club before moving to the WHA. He then joined the Houston Aeros, where he spent six seasons as a regular member of the roster. After his time in the WHA he played one final season in the minor professional leagues and retired from professional play in 1979.

  • 1970: NHL debut with Vancouver (parts of two seasons)
  • Early-to-late 1970s: Six seasons with the Houston Aeros in the WHA
  • Late 1970s: Final year in minor leagues, retirement in 1979

Role and playing style

Schella was regarded as a defensive-minded player who provided stability on the back end. Players of his type were typically charged with shutting down opposing forwards, clearing the puck from danger, and using physical play when necessary. Such attributes made him a useful member of professional rosters at a time when the game emphasized toughness and board play.

Context and significance

John Schella's career spanned a period when the WHA offered an alternative to the NHL, attracting established stars and solid professionals alike. Movement between the NHL and WHA was common as players sought playing time, better contracts, or different opportunities. Schella's multi-year tenure in Houston reflects how many players built substantial careers outside the NHL while still competing at a high level.

Later life and legacy

Schella stepped away from professional hockey after 1979 and later died on August 3, 2018. While not a household name among casual fans, he is remembered in hockey circles as a dependable defenceman whose career illustrated the depth of professional hockey in North America during the 1970s. For statistical records and season-by-season details, see the available player profile and historical summaries here.