A Hockey Legend Lost

Ken Dryden, the celebrated goalie who became the backbone of the Montreal Canadiens during their glorious 1970s dynasty, has passed away at the age of 78 after a courageous battle with cancer, as confirmed by the Canadiens.

Despite only spending seven full seasons in the NHL, Dryden's impact on the game is immeasurable. He dazzled fans, not just with his skills on the ice, but also with his intellectual pursuits off it. Remarkably, he retired in the midst of his prime, clinching six Stanley Cups and five Vezina trophies, to explore paths in business, law, and politics, where he achieved equal acclaim.

Tributes to a True Pioneer

In a heartfelt statement, Canadiens owner Geoff Molson expressed profound sorrow, stating: "Ken Dryden was an exceptional athlete and an even more exceptional man. Behind the mask, he was larger than life. Today, we grieve not only for the cornerstone of hockey’s greatest dynasty but for a devoted family member and enlightened citizen who left an indelible mark on our communities. His legacy transcends our sport, and we extend our deepest condolences to his family, friends, and all who privileged to know him personally."

From Humble Beginnings to Hockey Stardom

Born in Hamilton, Ontario in 1947, Dryden was initially drafted by the Boston Bruins, only to be swiftly traded to the Canadiens. He attended Cornell University, where he not only earned a B.A. in History but also led the Big Red hockey team to three ECAC tournament titles and a NCAA championship in 1967, boasting an astonishing 76-4-1 record during his college career.

An Unforgettable Debut

Making his NHL debut on March 14, 1971, Dryden quickly became a sensation, finishing the regular season with a perfect 6-0 record before leading the Canadiens to a Stanley Cup victory. He was also the first player in NHL history to win the Conn Smythe Trophy as playoff MVP and followed it up by clinching the Calder Trophy as the league’s top rookie in the next season.

A Towering Presence on the Ice

Standing at 6-foot-4 and weighing 205 pounds, Dryden was a towering figure in a time when most goalies were notably shorter. His unique resting pose, where he leaned on his stick as the puck circled around the ice, became iconic. His extraordinary record includes 258 wins out of 397 regular season games and 80 out of 132 playoff games, complemented by a record-high career save percentage of .922.

Beyond the Rink

Dryden’s legacy extends far beyond hockey. After briefly stepping away from the sport due to contract disputes, he pursued his law degree at McGill University, later penning his acclaimed book "The Game" among others, and teaching at his alma mater. He excelled in multiple careers, serving as a broadcaster during the Winter Olympics and even presiding over the Toronto Maple Leafs before embarking on a political career.

A Lasting Impact

In his post-hockey life, Dryden made waves as a politician, winning a seat in the House of Commons in 2004, where he contributed to Canadian society until 2011. Known for his dedication and unique perspective, Dryden has left a legacy that will endure.

He is survived by his wife Lynda, their children Sarah and Michael, and two grandchildren, who will carry forward his remarkable legacy.