Ken Dryden, the legendary goalie who achieved significant success in hockey, including six Stanley Cup wins and a pivotal role in Canada’s 1972 Summit Series victory, passed away at the age of 78 after battling cancer. Dryden, a key figure in the dominant Montreal Canadiens team of the 1970s, had a multifaceted career that extended beyond the ice, involving roles as a lawyer, author, politician, and NHL executive, leaving a lasting impact on Canadian society.
Born in Hamilton on August 8, 1947, Dryden grew up in a Toronto suburb with his family. His brother Dave, also a former NHL goalie, passed away in October 2022. Selected by the Boston Bruins in the 1964 NHL draft before joining the Canadiens, Dryden made his debut with the team in March 1971, quickly rising to prominence by leading them to a Stanley Cup victory and earning the Conn Smythe Trophy as playoff MVP.
Dryden’s standout moment came during the 1972 Summit Series, where he shared goaltending duties with Tony Esposito in a historic showdown between Canada and the Soviet Union. His experiences during this event were later chronicled in his book, “The Series: What I Remember, What it Felt Like, What it Feels Like Now,” published in 2022.
Despite facing setbacks, Dryden rebounded and played a crucial role in Canada’s triumph over the Soviets, solidifying his legacy as a hockey icon. His contributions to the sport were not limited to his on-ice performances, as he continued to make significant impacts both within and outside the hockey world.
Dryden’s remarkable career saw him win numerous accolades, including Vezina Trophies and Calder Trophies, and achieve success both as a player and later as an executive. Following his retirement, Dryden ventured into law and writing, penning several books that further showcased his diverse talents.
In addition to his contributions to hockey, Dryden also ventured into politics, serving as the president of the Toronto Maple Leafs and later entering the political arena as a Liberal MP. His dedication to public service and his unwavering commitment to his country earned him respect and admiration from many.
Tributes have been pouring in for Dryden from the hockey and political communities, highlighting his impact on and off the ice. His legacy as a sports icon, public figure, and family man will continue to inspire generations to come. Dryden is survived by his wife Lynda and their two children.