Ed Giacomin, Rangers Legend, Passes Away
The hockey world mourns the loss of Ed Giacomin, Hall of Fame goaltender and an emblematic figure for the New York Rangers in the 1960s and 1970s. Giacomin passed away at the age of 86. The news was confirmed by a Rangers spokesperson, who indicated that Giacomin died of natural causes. The NHL Alumni Association also confirmed the death, noting that it occurred at his home on Sunday night. Giacomin, known for his puck handling and his habit of leaving the net, something uncommon in his time, won the Vezina Trophy as the league’s best goaltender in the 1970-71 season. In addition, he led the Rangers to the Stanley Cup final in 1972.
Originally from Sudbury, Ontario, Giacomin was selected five times for the All-Star during his time with the Rangers, between 1965 and 1976, before finishing his career with the Detroit Red Wings. His number 1 is retired in Madison Square Garden and he was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 1987. The Rangers, in a statement, said that Giacomin epitomized what it meant to play for the team, adding: “You can’t talk about the history of this organization without immediately thinking of Eddie.”“Giacomin used to hear the chants of ‘Ed-die! Ed-die!’ from the crowds at Madison Square Garden,” the NHL stated in a statement. “We send our condolences to Eddie’s family, his friends, and the many fans he thrilled throughout his memorable career.”
