A New Westminster, BC native, Dave Mackey was selected by Chicago Blackhawks in the 11th round of the 1984 NHL Entry Draft.

"Dave Mackey was the consummate team player. He was the type of guy who you looked forward to playing with on your team or on your line," said Admirals teammate Tony Hrkac. "He gave us security out there because of his toughness and would do anything for you on the ice or off it. He could score goals, play both-ways, and had a real edge to his game that made his teammates feel comfortable out on the ice."

He played a total of five seasons with the Admirals and posted his best offensive season in his first year, 1990-91 when he racked up 58 points on 28 goals and 30 assists. He also finished second on the team with 226 penalty minutes and was one of just two players to skate in all 82 contests that season. In the playoffs that season he averaged more than a goal per game, posting seven tallies in just six contests.

Following that year Mackey had a three-year hiatus before returning back to Milwaukee to join the Admirals again in the 1994-1995 as a member of some of the powerhouse Admirals teams of the mid- to late-90s. His blue collar work ethic and willingness to stick up for his teammates earned him a role as the team’s assistant captain.

From 1994 through 1998 he recorded 52 goals and dished out 55 assists for 107 points and accumulated 853 penalty minutes which was second only to defenseman and close friend Ken Sabourin during that time. Additionally, Mackey’s 1079 career PIMs is second in team annals.

Mackey also played parts of six seasons in the NHL with the Chicago Blackhawks, Minnesota North Stars, and St. Louis Blues.