NHL Legend Eddie Giacomin Passes Away at 86
The hockey world mourns the loss of a true icon as Eddie Giacomin, the legendary New York Rangers goalie, has passed away at the age of 86, according to the NHL Alumni Association.
A Stellar Career with the New York Rangers
Eddie Giacomin enjoyed an illustrious career in the NHL, with 11 of his 13 seasons dedicated to the New York Rangers. His exceptional skills on the ice earned him a reputation as one of the finest goaltenders in the sport.
- Seasons Played: 11 with Rangers, 2 with Detroit Red Wings
- Career Record: 290 wins, 209 losses, 95 ties
- Save Percentage: .902
- Goals Against Average (GAA): 2.82
Giacomin made a standout impact during his time in New York, where he achieved a record of 267-172-89, with a .905 save percentage and a 2.74 GAA.
Memorable Moments
One of Giacomin’s most notable achievements came in 1972 when he led the Rangers to the Stanley Cup Final, although they fell short against the Boston Bruins in six games.
“Eddie Giacomin was an integral member of the New York Rangers for a decade and personified what being a Ranger is all about,” the team stated on social media.
National Attention and Honors
Throughout his career, Giacomin stood out not only for his performance but also for his leadership qualities:
- Led the NHL in games played for four consecutive years (1967-1970).
- Achieved the most shutouts in 1967, 1968, and 1971.
- Participated in six NHL All-Star Games (1967-1973).
- Shared the Vezina Trophy with teammate Gilles Villemure in 1971.
His contribution to the team was so significant that the legendary Rod Gilbert referred to Giacomin as "the heart of their team."
Post-Career Contributions
After retiring in 1978, Giacomin transitioned into broadcasting for the New York Islanders. His career further extended as he served in coaching roles with both the Islanders and Detroit Red Wings. He also had a significant tenure as a goaltending coach with the Rangers.
In 1987, Giacomin was formally inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame, solidifying his legacy within the sport.
Jersey Retirement
In recognition of his contributions, the Rangers retired his iconic No. 1 jersey on March 15, 1989, making him only the second player to receive this honor after Rod Gilbert.
Remembering a Legend
The passing of Eddie Giacomin leaves a profound void in the hockey community. Tributes and condolences are pouring in as fans, teammates, and the entire sports world remember a great man who touched many lives through his dedication and passion for the game.
For more on Giacomin’s remarkable career and legacy, check out the detailed articles on NHL’s official site and explore more about the New York Rangers’ history.
This article will be updated as more information becomes available.
