However, he would establish himself as an elite player in 1969–70, as he finished 7th in the league in goals with 33 and 10th in overall scoring with 70 points. He followed that up with another stellar season in 1970–71, as he bettered his career high with 36 goals (again top-10 in the league), and was voted the 'Most Popular Ranger' on a team with 5 future Hall-of-Famers.
In 1969–70, he emerged as a top player, finishing 7th in league goals with 33 and 10th overall points with 70. He continued his success in 1970–71, setting a new career high of 36 goals (again ranking among the top-10 in the league), and was recognized as 'Most Popular Ranger' on a team boasting five future Hall-of-Famers.