Tragedy Strikes The Hockey Community Following Passing Of Former Defenceman
The hockey community is mourning the loss of Connie 'Mad Dog' Madigan, as revealed by NHL coach and broadcaster Don Cherry on social media.
Madigan, aged 89, played a brief stint in the NHL with the St. Louis Blues but achieved legendary status in the old WHL with the Portland Buckaroos.
Notably, he holds the unique record of being the oldest rookie in NHL history, making his debut at 38 in January 1973.
Renowned for his tough playing style, Madigan earned the moniker 'Mad Dog' by accumulating fighting majors and becoming the 2nd all-time leader in minor league penalty minutes upon his return in 1976. His journey, depicted in this YouTube video, showcases his impactful career:
Hailing from Port Arthur, Ontario, Madigan started his pro career in 1958 after playing junior hockey in his hometown. Over the course of his career, he amassed impressive stats: 97 goals, 503 points, and a remarkable 1,846 penalty minutes in 806 WHL games.
Expressing his condolences, Don Cherry, also known as Grapes, remembered Mad Dog as one of the toughest players he encountered:
"Sorry to hear about the passing of my old roommate and buddy, Connie 'Mad Dog' Madigan. One of the toughest guys I played with or against. Not sure why he's in his street clothes in Spokane's team picture. Godspeed Connie."
Cherry's tweet further reflects the sentiment of the hockey world, remembering Mad Dog as a true warrior of the game.
As seen on hawksinsider
|
2 hours ago | By Austin Sabourin Trade brewing? Toronto Maple Leafs send executives to scout a rivals team |
|
2 hours ago | By Austin Sabourin Seven former NHL players had their contracts terminated today |
|
8 hours ago | By Austin Sabourin Bruins make a decision on Tyler Johnson? A surprising development has surfaced |
|
9 hours ago | By Austin Sabourin Boston Bruins organization makes a surprise announcement, and announces a new captain |
|
9 hours ago | By Austin Sabourin Vancouver Canucks provide update on ex-Bruin Derek Forbort after leaving the team |
|
11 hours ago | By Austin Sabourin Heartbreaking news strikes ex-Boston Bruins defenseman Derek Forbort and his family |
|
12 hours ago | By Austin Sabourin Boston Bruins reveal a new jersey to be worn against the Montreal Canadiens and fans are loving it |
|
13 hours ago | By Austin Sabourin Boston Bruins organization has announced the signing of former rivalry player Tyler Pitlick |
Previously on Bruins Insider