Eddie Giacomin, Hall of Fame goaltender for the Rangers, has passed away at 86.

Eddie Giacomin Passes Away at 86

The NHL Alumni Association announced on Monday that the legendary New York Rangers goalie, Eddie Giacomin, has died at the age of 86.

Giacomin spent 11 of his 13 NHL seasons with the Rangers, only briefly playing four games for the Detroit Red Wings during the 1975-76 season after being claimed on October 29, 1975.

During his time in New York, he maintained a record of 267 wins, 172 losses, and 89 ties. Throughout his entire career, Giacomin’s stats included a record of 290-209-95, boasting a .902 save percentage and a 2.82 goals-against average.

He is particularly remembered for leading the Rangers to the Stanley Cup final in 1972, where they ultimately lost to the Boston Bruins in six games.

The Rangers acknowledged his significant contributions in a statement on social media, emphasizing that Giacomin was a vital part of the team for a decade. They noted how his presence was pivotal, with teammate Rod Gilbert describing him as the heart of the team.

The Sudbury, Ontario native was a standout player, leading the NHL in games played for four straight years from 1967 to 1970, securing shutouts in 1967, 1968, and 1971.

After retiring in January 1978, Giacomin transitioned to a career as a broadcaster for the Islanders. He also served as an assistant coach for both the Islanders and Red Wings, later briefly acting as a goaltending coach.

In 1987, he was inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame. The Rangers honored him further by retiring his number on March 15, 1989, which now hangs in the rafters alongside Rod Gilbert’s No. 7.