The Montreal Canadiens announced the passing of former forward Phil Goyette on Sunday. The four-time Stanley Cup champion was 92 years old.
A Stellar Start and a Storied Career
Phil Goyette, a native of Lachine, Quebec, began his National Hockey League journey with the Canadiens in the 1956-57 season. He achieved a rare and remarkable feat by winning the Stanley Cup in each of his first four years in the league, cementing his place in the team's storied history.
His professional career spanned an impressive 16 seasons in the NHL. After his tenure with Montreal, Goyette went on to play for the New York Rangers, the Buffalo Sabres, and the St. Louis Blues. Over 940 regular-season games, he amassed 674 career points, consisting of 207 goals and 467 assists. He also contributed 46 points in 94 playoff appearances.
Accolades and Post-Playing Endeavors
Goyette's skill and sportsmanship were recognized in 1970 when he was awarded the Lady Byng Memorial Trophy. Following his retirement from playing, he transitioned to coaching.
In 1972-73, he made history by becoming the first head coach of the expansion New York Islanders. His time behind the bench was challenging, with the new team recording a 6-40-4 record before he was replaced by Earl Ingarfield nearly four months into the season.
Remembering a Montreal Icon
The Canadiens confirmed that Goyette died on Saturday. No details regarding the cause of death were provided in the team's statement.
Phil Goyette's legacy is forever intertwined with the most successful era of the Montreal Canadiens. His four Stanley Cup championships in his first four seasons remain a testament to his talent and the dynasty he was a part of. He is remembered not just as a champion, but as a skilled playmaker and a gentleman of the game whose career left a lasting mark on hockey in Canada and beyond.
