He came into the NHL at a time when the battle with the rival WHA for talent led to rookies signing for far more money than the previous generation of players commanded .
Renowned for his leadership ability , McDonald cultivated the respect of the team 's younger players .
McDonald came into the NHL at a time when the battle with the rival WHA for talent led to rookies signing for far more money than the previous generation of players commanded .
Renowned for his leadership ability , McDonald cultivated the respect of the team 's younger players .