The hockey community is pausing to remember a man whose influence stretched far beyond the rink.
Bob Pulford, a respected figure who shaped the NHL as a player, coach, executive, and union pioneer, has passed away at the age of 89.
His family confirmed the news through the NHL Alumni Association, though no further details were shared.
From Gritty Forward to Maple Leafs Mainstay
Long before he became a familiar face behind the bench or in the front office, Pulford made his name as a tough and reliable forward with the Toronto Maple Leafs.
Spending 14 seasons with the franchise between 1956 and 1970, he played a key role in four Stanley Cup victories.
One of those titles came in 1967, a season that still stands as the Leafs’ most recent championship run.
Building a Reputation on Consistency and Skill
Pulford wasn’t just known for his physical presence.
He earned five All-Star selections and topped the league in short-handed goals on three separate occasions.
By the time his playing career wrapped up, he had collected 694 points across 1,168 regular-season and playoff games.
That body of work earned him a place in the Hockey Hall of Fame in 1991.
A Pioneer Away From the Ice
His impact wasn’t limited to game nights.
Pulford became the first president of the players’ union, stepping into early collective bargaining discussions and helping lay the groundwork for what would eventually become the modern NHL Players’ Association.
It was a role that showed his commitment to improving the sport for those who played it.
Coaching Stops and a Long Executive Chapter
After finishing his playing days with the Los Angeles Kings in the early 1970s, Pulford stayed with the organization as head coach for five seasons.
His journey then led him to Chicago, where he spent three decades guiding the Blackhawks as general manager or senior vice president of hockey operations from 1977 to 2007.
During that long stretch, he even returned to the bench four different times when the team needed him.
Tributes From the League’s Leadership
Chicago Blackhawks chairman and CEO Danny Wirtz praised Pulford’s willingness to step into any role required, calling his range of responsibilities “unthinkable by today’s standards.”
He emphasized that Pulford’s leadership and dedication will always be part of the club’s history.
NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman also reflected on Pulford’s influence, describing him as someone who “left an indelible mark on the game.”
Bettman shared that Pulford became a trusted adviser during his early years as commissioner, earning deep respect for his wisdom and service.
Remembering a Lasting Legacy
The NHL Alumni Association summed up the sentiment felt across the hockey world, calling Pulford one of the most respected figures the sport has ever known.
As tributes continue to pour in, one thing is clear: Bob Pulford’s legacy—on the ice, behind the bench, and in the boardroom—will continue to shape hockey for generations to come.
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