Bob Pulford, a revered player in the Hockey Hall of Fame who later had a successful career as a coach and general manager in the NHL, has passed away at the age of 89. The NHL Alumni Association was informed by Pulford’s family of his death, though no further details have been disclosed.
Known for his toughness and reliability, Pulford contributed significantly to the Toronto Maple Leafs’ four Stanley Cup victories during his tenure with the team from 1956 to 1970. Hailing from Newton Robinson, Ontario, he was a key member of the 1967 championship team, the last to secure a title for the organization. Pulford was a five-time all-star and led the league in short-handed goals on three occasions. His impressive career stats of 694 points in 1,168 regular-season and playoff games earned him induction into the Hall of Fame in 1991.
Off the ice, Pulford served as the inaugural president of the players union, playing a pivotal role in early collective bargaining efforts that laid the groundwork for the NHLPA as it exists today. Following his playing days, Pulford spent two seasons with the Los Angeles Kings before transitioning into coaching for five years. He then held various roles within the Chicago Blackhawks’ front office for three decades, including general manager and senior vice-president of hockey operations, occasionally stepping in as coach.
Chicago chairman and CEO Danny Wirtz, whose grandfather employed Pulford, praised his versatility and dedication, stating that Pulford fearlessly embraced diverse roles to meet the needs of the team. NHL commissioner Gary Bettman commended Pulford for his significant impact on the game, emphasizing their close relationship and mutual respect.
The NHL Alumni Association paid tribute to Pulford, acknowledging him as a highly esteemed figure in hockey history. Their memorial message expressed gratitude for Pulford’s enduring contributions to the sport and highlighted his lasting influence on the hockey community.