Tragic passing catches the hockey community by shock
In some sad news, the hockey community is grieving the loss of Connie 'Mad Dog' Madigan.
NHL coach and broadcaster Don Cherry shared on social media that Madigan passed away at the age of 89.
Madigan played a brief 20 NHL games with the St. Louis Blues but gained legendary status in the old professional WHL with the Portland Buckaroos. He holds a unique record as the oldest rookie in NHL history, making his debut at the age of 38 in January 1973.
Known for his tough and no-nonsense playing style, Madigan earned the nickname 'Mad Dog' by piling up fighting majors and becoming the 2nd all-time leader in minor league penalty minutes when he returned in 1976.
Originally from Port Arthur, Ontario, Madigan played junior hockey in his hometown before turning pro in 1958. Throughout his career, he tallied 97 goals, 503 points, and a whopping 1,846 penalty minutes in 806 WHL games.
Don Cherry, also known as Grapes, expressed his condolences, saying:
"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."
The hockey world remembers Mad Dog as a true warrior of the game.
POLL |
JANVIER 9 | 127 ANSWERS Tragic passing catches the hockey community by shock Do you remember 'Mad Dog'? |
Yes | 68 | 53.5 % |
Sadly not | 59 | 46.5 % |
List of polls |
|
7 hours ago | By Jim Precourt Icehogs star selected for prestigious tournament |
|
11 hours ago | By Joshua Deeds Tragedy Strikes Hockey Players After Freak Car Wreck |
|
12 hours ago | By Joshua Deeds Blackhawks Connor Bedard Receives Dangerous Headshot to the Jaw That He Had Surgery on Last Season |
|
14 hours ago | By Joshua Deeds Seth jones takes key youth defenseman out of Blackhawks lineup with return from injury |
|
15 hours ago | By Joshua Deeds Chicago Blackhawks Complete Move With Seth Jones, Injury is now cleared |
|
16 hours ago | By Joshua Deeds NHL Goaltender Robin Lehner's Life Takes Significant Turn With Recent Social Media Plead |
|
18 hours ago | By Ryan Hall Detroit Red Wings' Patrick Kane Scores Milestone Goal From Incredible Angle |
|
19 hours ago | By Ryan Hall New Equipment Was Revealed For Blackhawks In The Winter Classic Game vs St. Louis |
Previously on HawksInsider