Hockey Legend Ed Giacomin, Hall of Fame Goaltender for Rangers and Red Wings, Passes Away at 86
Ed Giacomin, a legendary goaltender inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame and a prominent figure for the New York Rangers in the 1960s and 70s, has died at the age of 86. Known for his innovative style and charismatic presence, Giacomin's passing marks a significant loss for the hockey community.
A Career Defined by Skill and Passion
Giacomin died of natural causes, according to a Rangers spokesperson, after the organization received word from his family. Before joining the New York Rangers in 1965, Giacomin honed his skills in the minor leagues, including stints with the Providence Reds of the AHL. He quickly became a fan favorite, renowned for his puck-handling abilities and willingness to leave the crease, a less common practice for goalies during his era.
His dedication and talent earned him the Vezina Trophy in 1970-71, awarded to the league's best goaltender. He also led the Rangers to the Stanley Cup Final in 1972. "Giacomin routinely heard chants of ‘Ed-die! Ed-die!’ from adoring Madison Square Garden crowds,” the NHL said in a statement.
A Memorable Return and Lasting Legacy
After more than a decade with the Rangers, Giacomin finished his career with the Detroit Red Wings. His return to Madison Square Garden as a member of the Red Wings in the 1975-76 season remains a poignant moment in hockey history, eliciting an emotional response from both Giacomin and the fans.
“I stood in the crease and looked into the glass during the national anthem, and it was too much,’’ Giacomin told the New York Times in 1989 on the eve of his jersey retirement ceremony. “I’d seen those people for years. They kept up the applause, not easing up. The tears came because I couldn’t understand why I had been let go, couldn’t figure out what I had done wrong.’’
“The home fans booed me for scoring a goal against Eddie,” Steve Vickers said years later about the game. “The next shift I apologized to him. He said ‘Don’t worry about it. It’s just your job.’ ”
Honors and Recognition
A five-time All-Star, Giacomin's No. 1 jersey is retired at Madison Square Garden. He was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 1987, solidifying his place among hockey's elite. The Rangers stated that Giacomin "personified what it meant to play for them," adding, "You cannot discuss the history of this organization and not immediately think of Eddie."
Born on June 6, 1939, in Sudbury, Ontario, Edward Giacomin played 13 NHL seasons, registering a 290-209 record with 96 ties, a 2.82 goals-against average, .902 save percentage, and 54 shutouts. After his playing career, Giacomin spent time as an analyst, assistant coach, and goaltender coach.
The NHL, the Rangers, and the hockey community at large mourn the loss of Ed Giacomin, celebrating his impactful career and his contributions to the sport.
