NEWSLETTER
Sad news out of the Chicago Blackhawks world today as the team announced on Tuesday night that legendary goaltender Tony Esposito passed away at the age of 78
We are heartbroken to have lost a legend in Tony Esposito, who passed away today after a brief battle with pancreatic cancer.#TonyO ❤️
— Chicago Blackhawks (@NHLBlackhawks) August 10, 2021
Esposito was inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 1988 after spending 16 seasons in the NHL, 15 with the Blackhawks from 1969-1984. His No. 35 was retired by the Blackhawks in 1988 as well.
Statement from commissioner Gary Bettman on the passing of Tony Esposito pic.twitter.com/uXCA1XppsC
— Tracey Myers (@Tramyers_NHL) August 10, 2021
One of the most recognizable Blackhawks legends, Esposito won the Calder Trophy as the NHL Rookie of the Year in 1969-70, and won three Vezina Trophies as the NHL’s Best Goaltender in 1969-70, 1971-72, and 1973-74.
Statement from #Blackhawks chairman Rocky Wirtz on the passing of Tony Esposito. pic.twitter.com/h2m8QkQw6Q
— Charlie Roumeliotis (@CRoumeliotis) August 10, 2021
Esposito holds the Blackhawks all-time records for a goaltender for games played (873), wins (418), shutouts (74), postseason games (99), and postseason shutouts (6).
His character on and off the ice and the stories of Esposito in the Chicago Blackhawks community will only further his legacy beyond what he did in his playing career. Truly a sad day with his passing.
We will always remember Tony-O.
