Eddie Giacomin, a revered goalie enshrined in the Hockey Hall of Fame and a prominent figure for the New York Rangers during the 1960s and 1970s, has passed away at the age of 86 due to natural causes. The sad news was confirmed by a spokesperson for the Rangers following communication from his family, with the NHL Alumni Association also noting that Giacomin passed away at his residence on Sunday evening.
Known for eliciting chants of “Ed-die! Ed-die!” from the enthusiastic crowds at Madison Square Garden, Giacomin was a beloved figure in the hockey world. The NHL expressed its condolences to Giacomin’s family, friends, and the countless fans who were captivated by his illustrious career.
Hailing from Sudbury, Ontario, Giacomin was a six-time All-Star and clinched the Vezina Trophy for being the league’s premier goalie in the 1970-71 season. He dedicated over a decade to the Rangers from 1965 to 1976, guiding them to the Stanley Cup Final in 1972. His iconic No. 1 jersey was retired by the Rangers at Madison Square Garden in 1989.
Described as the epitome of Rangers hockey, Giacomin left an indelible mark on the franchise. The team acknowledged his profound impact, stating that Eddie is synonymous with the rich history of the organization.
After concluding his playing career with the Detroit Red Wings, Giacomin retired in 1978 boasting 290 wins and a .902 save percentage. His outstanding contributions to the sport were recognized with his induction into the Hall of Fame in 1987.