Selected in the First Round in 1978, Playfair was a lockdown defender who fought when he needed to do but protected his net at all costs. Used primarily on even-strength situations. From 1979-80 to 1984-85, Playfair had at least 4.2 Defensive Point Shares, with two of those seasons also seeing him have 200-plus in Penalty Minutes.
Playfair was traded to Los Angeles during the 1985-86 season, only to return before the 1988-89 season. He retired two years after and went into broadcasting. The Sabres chose Playfair for his Hall of Fame in 1998.
