The Toronto native played junior with the OHA's Hamilton Red Wings. The Detroit prospect was named to the league's first all-star team after scoring 52 goals in 1967-68. He played 44 games for the Wings in 1968-69 but struggled to get open consistently and was traded to the Minnesota North Stars for Wayne Connelly. He continued to show flashes of his potential but his inconsistency was a source of frustration for coaches Wren Blair and John Muckler.

Lawson was claimed by the Buffalo Sabres at the intra-league draft in June 1971. He scored 10 goals in 78 games but was rarely used in key situations. He realized his offensive potential when he joined the WHA's Philadelphia Blazers in 1972-73 and led the league with 61 goals. He became an instant star and was placed on the league's inaugural first all-star team. Lawson continued to produce over the next five seasons when he never failed to top the 30-goal mark. He retired in 1977 after scoring 30 goals and helping the Winnipeg Jets reach the Avco Cup finals.

Courtesy of the Hockey Hall of Fame