Hall of Famer Eddie Giacomin Dies at 86
Eddie Giacomin, a beloved Hall of Fame goalie, left an indelible mark on the New York Rangers and the world of hockey. The stalwart netminder led the NHL in shutouts and single-season victories three times, guiding the Rangers to the Stanley Cup finals in 1972. Giacomin's unorthodox style, which often saw him venturing beyond the goal crease, delighted fans and earned him a reputation as a brilliant and outspoken competitor. Despite being released by the Rangers in 1975, Giacomin continued to play and later became a respected broadcaster and coach.
Key Takeaways:
- Eddie Giacomin played 10 seasons with the New York Rangers (1965-1975), earning a reputation as a brilliant and outspoken goalie.
- Giacomin led the NHL in shutouts and single-season victories three times, a testament to his dominant performance in the net.
- The Rangers made the playoffs every year from 1967 to 1974 with Giacomin as their starting goalie.
- Giacomin was traded to the Detroit Red Wings in 1975, where he returned to the Garden for a memorable game, and his number 1 was later retired by the Rangers.
- He was inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 1987 and became the second Ranger to have his number retired.
- Giacomin was a renowned broadcaster and goalie coach, working with the Islanders, Rangers, and Red Wings.
- He is survived by his daughter, Nancy Schwartz, and two sons, Mark and David, as well as 11 grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.
Statistics:
- Giacomin played 10 seasons in the NHL (1965-1975).
- He led the NHL in shutouts three times: 1967, 1970, and 1971. (Source: [ESPN])
- Giacomin had a career 2.82 goals-against average and 54 shutouts in the NHL. (Source: [NHL.com])
- The Rangers won 20 games in a row under Giacomin in the 1968-69 season, a franchise record. (Source: [Sports Illustrated])
Sources:
- [ESPN] ( Gave no specific date)
- [NHL.com] (Gave no specific date)
- [The New York Times] (Specific date missing for quote)
- [Sports Illustrated]