Ken Dryden, renowned as one of the best goaltenders in the NHL, has passed away following a battle with cancer, confirmed by the Montreal Canadiens on Saturday. He was 78 years old.

The Hall of Famer achieved remarkable success, winning six Stanley Cups with the Canadiens in the 1970s and receiving the Conn Smythe Trophy in 1971, awarded to the playoffs’ most valuable player, before he officially became a rookie. In the subsequent 1971-72 season, after already being a Stanley Cup and Conn Smythe winner, Dryden claimed the Calder Trophy as the NHL’s top rookie. Furthermore, he secured the Vezina Trophy five times, recognizing him as the league’s finest goaltender.

Dryden concluded his impressive career with a phenomenal record of 258 wins, 57 losses, and 74 ties as a goalie, solidifying his status as a pivotal player in the Canadiens dynasty of the 1970s. This included a hiatus during the 1973-74 season due to a contract dispute, during which he turned to law, but he returned to lead Montreal through four consecutive Stanley Cup victories from 1976 to 1979 before retiring after the final championship.

“Ken Dryden was an exceptional athlete, but he was also an exceptional man,” stated 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, a thoughtful citizen, and a gentleman who deeply impacted our lives and communities across generations.”

Beyond his hockey career, Dryden’s post-playing life was equally impressive. He pursued a career as a lawyer, taught at McGill University, authored multiple books, served as an analyst during three Olympics, and was the Toronto Maple Leafs president from 1997 to 2004. His political journey began with his election to Canada’s Parliament, where he served from 2004 to 2011, including a role as the Minister of Social Development in Paul Martin’s cabinet from 2004 to 2006.