Ted Green (Edward 'Terrible Ted') — Canadian ice hockey player and coach

Playing career and style

Green built a reputation for toughness and no‑nonsense defending. He patrolled the defensive zone with an emphasis on body positioning, blocking, and physical play rather than offense. That approach made him a valued member of Boston's defensive corps in the NHL and later an experienced veteran in the WHA, where many established players found new opportunities as the rival league formed.

Notable events and reputation

During his career Green was involved in incidents that underscored hockey's rough era; his combative style earned him the nickname "Terrible Ted." A serious on‑ice altercation late in the 1960s resulted in a major head injury and interrupted his playing days for an extended period. The episode attracted widespread attention at the time and remains a recognized moment in the history of player safety discussions.

Coaching and later work

After retiring as a player, Green transitioned to coaching. He took on a head coach role with the Edmonton Oilers and later worked on coaching staffs as an assistant, including with the Oilers again and with the New York Rangers. In those positions he was credited with developing defence corps and bringing a practical, experience‑based approach to teaching positioning and toughness to younger players.

Legacy and death

Green is remembered for a career that bridged eras — from the Original Six expansion years through the WHA experiment and into the modern professional game — and for embodying the archetype of the rugged, defensive defenceman. He remained a respected figure among teammates and protégés. Green died in Edmonton after a prolonged illness on October 8, 2019, at age 79.

Key facts

• Full name: Edward Joseph Green; nicknamed "Terrible Ted".
• Primary role: Defence (stay‑at‑home, physical style).
• NHL team: Boston Bruins.
• WHA teams: New England Whalers and Winnipeg Jets.
• Also notable for a serious late‑1960s on‑ice incident that affected his playing career.
• Coaching: Head coach with the Edmonton Oilers; long‑time assistant with the Oilers and New York Rangers.
• Passed away in Edmonton on October 8, 2019.

For readers seeking contemporary team histories or statistics, archival resources and team histories provide fuller season‑by‑season records and game details. Green's career illustrates both the physical demands of professional hockey in the mid‑20th century and the paths players took into coaching after retirement.