Augie

Happy 39th birthday to Mats Zuccarello. The @LAKings forward was born on September 1, 1987. #LAKings #GoKingsGo

We are deeply saddened by the passing of Bob Pulford, one of the most respected figures in the history of hockey. Bob’s remarkable career spanned decades and left an enduring mark on the game at every level. As a player, Bob proudly wore the sweaters of the Toronto Maple Leafs and the Los Angeles Kings. With Toronto, he won four Stanley Cups and earned a reputation as one of the toughest, most dependable centres of his era. He later brought that same leadership and competitive spirit to the Los Angeles Kings, continuing to influence the game through his experience and professionalism. Bob won the Lester Patrick trophy in 2011, continuing to demonstrate his talents. Beyond his accomplishments on the ice, Bob was a trailblazer for players’ rights. In 1967, he became the first President of the NHL Players’ Union, playing a key role in early collective bargaining and helping lay the foundation for the modern NHLPA. After his playing career, Bob continued to shape the sport from behind the bench and in the front office. He served as Head Coach of the Los Angeles Kings and the Chicago Blackhawks, and remained a vital part of the Chicago Blackhawks organization for over 30 years in senior leadership roles, mentoring many players to continue on in Coaching and VP positions with many Teams. His lifelong contributions to the game were formally recognized with his induction into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 1991, cementing his place among hockey’s all-time greats. Bob, along with his teammates of the 1967 Leafs Stanley Cup Team, was awarded the 2024 NHL Alumni Keith Magnuson Man of the Year Award. Our heartfelt condolences go out to his beloved wife, Roslyn Pulford, and his children, Wanda Lombardi (Dean), Rob Pulford (Elaine), Lindsay Barrett (Daniel)and Jennifer MacRitchie, as well as his grandchildren. Please know that your entire family is in our thoughts and prayers during this very difficult time. May you find comfort in Bob’s extraordinary legacy and in the countless lives he touched both on and off the ice as an integral part of the NHL Alumni Family. Rest in peace, Bob. Your impact on hockey and on all who had the privilege of knowing you will never be forgotten.