The world of hockey is crying after emerging that the former NHL player and broadcaster Greg Millen died at the age of 67.
A cause of death has not yet been announced, but Sportsnet, where Millen worked, confirmed his death.
“It is with Heavy Hearts that we, at Sportsnet, mourns the death of Greg Millen, a beloved figure of our hockey community and a darling member of our NHL team on Sportsnet,” the organization said on Monday.
“As a player and broadcaster, Greg has left an indelible brand on sport as well as all those who had the pleasure of knowing it, looking at it and listening to it. With his infectious passion for the game, his sharp ideas and his rapid spirit, Greg has been a reliable and familiar voice in the houses of millions of Canadians for over 30 years.
“ Our biggest condolences go to Greg’s family, friends, colleagues, fans and all those who have been touched by his kindness, expertise and endless love for hockey game. We will miss a lot.
Millen was born in Toronto and played for six teams during his career after being drafted by Pittsburgh’s Penguins in 1977.
Greg Millen, a former NHL player who has become an analyst respected, died at 67 years old
Millen also appeared for the Hartford Whalers, St. Louis Blues, Quebec Nordic, Chicago Blackhawks and Detroit Red Wings
After retiring from the game in 1992, he continued and forged a distinguished career in broadcasting and became an analyst of the “hockey evening in Canada”.
Far from the ice, Millen had four children with his wife and lived in Ontario.
The NHL said in a statement on Monday evening: “The NHL is saddened by the death of Greg Millen, a veteran of 14 NHL seasons as a goalkeeper and more than three decades as a diffuser.
“Millen will be missed as a television analyst respected Hockey Night in Canada and with Sportsnet.
“Our thoughts go to his family, his broadcast team and his many friends in the game.”
More to follow