Ken dryden, Canadiens Legend, Passes Away at 78
MONTREAL – Hockey legend and former montreal Canadiens goaltender Ken Dryden passed away peacefully on Friday at the age of 78 following a battle with cancer.
Dryden joined the Canadiens in the 1970-71 season, immediately making an impact with six regular-season wins and leading the team to a Stanley Cup championship in his first NHL postseason. He was awarded the Conn Smythe Trophy as playoff MVP.
Over a decade of dominance, Dryden secured five more Stanley Cups with Montreal, totaling six championships in the 1970s. He was recognized as the league’s top goaltender five times, winning the Vezina Trophy in 1972-73 and consecutively from 1975-76 to 1978-79. He also earned the Calder Trophy as rookie of the year in 1971-72. He was inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 1983, and the Canadiens honored him further by retiring his No.29 jersey in 2007.
“Ken Dryden was an remarkable athlete, but he was also an exceptional man,” said Geoff Molson, Owner and President of the Montreal Canadiens. “Behind the mask he was larger than life. We mourn today not only the loss of the cornerstone of one of hockey’s greatest dynasties, but also a family man, a thoughtful citizen, and a gentleman who deeply impacted our lives and communities across generations. He was one of the true legends that helped shape this Club into what it is today. Ken embodied the best of everything the Montreal Canadiens are about, and his legacy within our society transcends our sport.”
Beyond his hockey career, Dryden was a respected author, penning “the Game” and co-authoring “Home Game: Hockey and life in Canada.” He also served as Minister of Social Advancement under Prime Minister Paul Martin from 2004-2005, driven by a passion for improving social living conditions, and was awarded the Order of Canada in 2012.
The Dryden family has requested privacy during this difficult time. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Princess Margaret Cancer Center or the Concussion Legacy Foundation.
The Montreal Canadiens extend their deepest sympathies to Ken Dryden’s family, friends, and loved ones. He will be remembered as a legendary winner, a brilliant intellect, and a true icon of the game.
