Hockey Hall of Famer Guy Lafleur dies aged 70

Nicknamed “The Flower,” he helped Montreal Canadians win five Stanley Cup titles during the 1970s.

MONTREAL - The Hockey Hall of Famer Guy Lafleur, who helped Montreal Canadians win five Stanley Cup titles in the 1970s, has died aged 70.

The cause of death was not immediately determined, but Lafleur was diagnosed with lung cancer.

“We are deeply saddened to learn of the death of Guy Lafleur. All members of the Canadianiens are devastated by his passing," Canada President Geoff Molson said in a statement.

“Guy Lafleur has had an exceptional career and has always been homely, accessible and relatable to Habs and hockey fans in Quebec, Canada and around the world. Throughout his career, he has allowed us to experience great moments of collective pride. He is one of the greatest players in our organization and has become a special ambassador for our sport. ”

One of the greatest players of his generation, Lafleur scored 518 goals and 728 assists in 14 seasons with Montreal.

1 pick in the 1971 NHL draft added 133 points (57 goals, 76 assists) in 124 knockout games.

Nicknamed "The Flower", he retired after the 1984-85 season, but returned in 1988-1989 with the New York Rangers. He played the next two seasons with the Quebec Nordiques before hanging up his boots for good.

"You don't have to see Guy Lafleur's name and number on his sweater when 'The Flower' has his cane," NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman said in a statement. “With both distinctive style and considerable talent, Lafleur creates a dashing and unmistakable look whenever he plunges down the ice rink of the Montreal Forum, his long blond locks He oozes out when he's about to shoot another through a helpless goalscorer - or establish a tablemate for a goal. "

Lafleur was diagnosed with lung cancer in 2019, when the tumors were discovered by doctors performing emergency quadruple heart surgery.

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