Phil Goyette Passes Away at 92
Phil Goyette, a notable figure in ice hockey and a former forward for the NHL, has passed away at the age of 92. The Montreal Canadiens, the team he significantly contributed to during his early career, announced his death on Sunday. Goyette departed this life on Saturday, and his family has expressed gratitude for the outpouring of condolences from the community. However, the Canadiens did not disclose the specifics regarding the cause of his death.
Career Highlights
Hailing from Lachine, Quebec, Goyette made his NHL debut with the Canadiens in the 1956-57 season. Over the course of his career, he played for various teams, including the New York Rangers, Buffalo Sabres, and St. Louis Blues. Goyette was recognized for his sportsmanship and exceptional conduct on the ice, earning the prestigious Lady Byng Trophy in the 1969-70 season while with the Blues.
Throughout his career, he participated in 940 regular-season matches, netting 207 goals and providing 467 assists. In the playoffs, he added 17 goals and assisted on 29 more across 94 games.
Final Seasons and Coaching
Goyette’s professional journey concluded in the 1971-72 season, when he narrowly missed out on a fifth Stanley Cup championship as his Rangers were defeated by the Boston Bruins in the finals. Following his playing days, Goyette transitioned into coaching, leading the New York Islanders during their inaugural season in 1972-73, where he recorded a challenging 6-40-4 record before being succeeded by Earl Ingarfield.
