Leafs legend Bob Pulford passes away at 89 years old

Toronto Maple Leafs legend and Hockey Hall of Famer Bob Pulford has passed away at age 89.

With the Leafs, Pulford won four Stanley Cups, including back to back to back championships from 1961-1964, through his hard-nosed, tough style of play. He earned a reputation for being one of the most rugged centers to ever play in the NHL. He finished his career with the Los Angeles Kings and would go on to be an influential head coach with both the Kings and, later on, the Chicago Blackhawks.

Suffice it to say that the man is a legend of the sport. He was enshrined in the Hall of Fame in 1991 and was the definition of a 'hockey lifer'. The game was in his blood and he was involved with it until his dying days.

More on Pulford from NHL.com:

Beyond his accomplishments on the ice, Bob was a trailblazer for players’ rights. In 1967, he became the first President of the NHL Players’ Union, playing a key role in early collective bargaining and helping lay the foundation for the modern NHLPA.

After his playing career, Bob continued to shape the sport from behind the bench and in the front office. He served as Head Coach of the Los Angeles Kings and the Chicago Blackhawks, and remained a vital part of the Chicago Blackhawks organization for over 30 years in senior leadership roles, mentoring many players to continue on in Coaching and VP positions with many Teams. His lifelong contributions to the game were formally recognized with his induction into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 1991, cementing his place among hockey’s all-time greats.

Bob, along with his teammates of the 1967 Leafs Stanley Cup Team, was awarded the 2024 NHL Alumni Keith Magnuson Man of the Year Award.

Our heartfelt condolences go out to his beloved wife, Roslyn Pulford, and his children, Wanda Lombardi (Dean), Rob Pulford (Elaine), Lindsay Barrett (Daniel)and Jennifer MacRitchie, as well as his grandchildren. Please know that your entire family is in our thoughts and prayers during this very difficult time. May you find comfort in Bob’s extraordinary legacy and in the countless lives he touched both on and off the ice as an integral part of the NHL Alumni Family.

Rest in peace, Bob. Your impact on hockey and on all who had the privilege of knowing you will never be forgotten.