Ken Dryden, a legendary goaltender who won six Stanley Cups with the Montreal Canadiens in the 1970s, passed away on Friday at the age of 78 after battling cancer. His contributions to hockey and his community made a lasting impact.
Canadiens owner Geoff Molson expressed deep sorrow about Dryden’s passing. He called Dryden not just an incredible athlete but also a remarkable person who shaped the team and the sport itself. “He was a cornerstone of one of hockey’s greatest dynasties,” said Molson, emphasizing Dryden’s influence beyond the rink.
Dryden, hailing from Ontario, made a name for himself at Cornell University, where he was a three-time All-American and won a national title in 1967. Joining the Canadiens, he had a brief but unforgettable eight-year NHL career. He received the Calder Trophy for the best rookie in 1971-72 and won the Vezina Trophy five times as the league’s top goalie.
Standing at 6-foot-4, Dryden often stood out on the ice. His unique pose of resting his chin on his goal stick became iconic in the sport. His final season was 1978-79, where he wrapped up his career with an impressive 259 wins and a .922 save percentage. He was inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 1983.
Beyond his playing days, Dryden served as a commentator during three Winter Olympics, famously commenting on the U.S. victory over the Soviet Union in 1980. In a surprising turn, he also ventured into politics. In 2004, he was elected to the Canadian House of Commons and served as a Member of Parliament until 2011.
His legacy lives on through stories shared by fans and players. As the hockey world reflects on his life, it becomes clear that Dryden was not only a champion in sports but also a champion for his community.
As we remember Ken Dryden, we celebrate a life filled with achievements, both on and off the ice. His impact will continue to inspire future generations of athletes and citizens alike.
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