MONTREAL, Canada — Ken Dryden, the Hall of Fame goaltender who won six Stanley Cups with the Montreal Canadiens and helped lead Canada to victory in the 1972 Summit Series, has died at the age of 78 after a battle with cancer.
A Hockey Icon
Dryden, born on August 8, 1947, in Hamilton, Ontario, became one of the most celebrated NHL goaltenders of his era. Drafted by the Boston Bruins in 1964 before a trade to Montreal, he debuted with the Canadiens in March 1971. In his rookie season, he won the Calder Trophy and later secured the Conn Smythe Trophy as playoff MVP.
Over eight seasons, Dryden backstopped Montreal to six Stanley Cup championships. He also split goaltending duties with Tony Esposito during the iconic 1972 Summit Series against the Soviet Union, a defining moment in Canadian sports history.
Life Beyond the Ice
After retiring at age 31, Dryden pursued a career in law, earned degrees at McGill University, and became a respected author and public servant. He penned multiple books, including “The Game” and “The Series,” offering insight into his career and the legendary 1972 series.
Dryden also entered politics, serving as a federal Liberal Member of Parliament and Minister of Social Development. He later became president of the Toronto Maple Leafs from 1997 to 2004.
Honors and Legacy
Dryden was inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 1983. His NHL record includes 258 wins, 57 losses, 74 ties, a .922 save percentage, 2.24 goals-against average, and 46 shutouts. He also won the Vezina Trophy five times and the Conn Smythe once.
“Ken Dryden was an exceptional athlete, but he was also an exceptional man,” said Montreal Canadiens owner Geoff Molson. “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 and a thoughtful citizen.”
Dryden is survived by his wife Lynda and their two children. The family requested privacy at this time.
