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Hall of Fame goaltender Tony Esposito has passed away at the age of 78. The Chicago Blackhawks icon has battled pancreatic cancer, according to team owner Rocky Wirtz.
NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman said in a statement:
“The National Hockey League, the Chicago Blackhawks and the City of Chicago lost a beloved member of the hockey family earlier today with the passing of Tony Esposito. From arriving at Windy City in the late 1960s to an illustrious playing career and decades as a franchise icon, Tony has left an indelible mark – both on the ice and in the community – over the course of over the next 52 years. “
The statement went on to say, “It was Esposito’s style, charisma and heart that appreciated him the most among hockey fans, not only in Chicago but throughout the NHL. ‘Tony O’ was a fierce competitor who also took great pride in being an artist, it was with his pioneering butterfly style during his playing days or interacting with League fans as one of the greats ambassadors of this game. He will be sadly missed by the hockey world.
Esposito joined the Montreal Canadiens for the 1968-69 season, his first NHL team and only the third American college player to be selected by an NHL team.
He joined the Blackhawks in the 1969-1970 season when Chicago claimed Esposito from Montreal on waivers.
Esposito made an impact in Chicago right away, becoming an All-Star in his first full season with the team. He would become a four-time All-Star at the end of his career. His resume also includes the Calder Trophy for Rookie of the Year and the Vezina Trophy for three-time NHL top goaltender.
He played 15 years with the Blackhawks and is the all-time franchise leader in shutouts (74) and career wins (418).
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