Former NHL goalie Gilles Gilbert has died

Former NHL goaltender Gilles Gilbert, who is perhaps best known for surrendering Guy Lafleur's goal in Game 7 of the 1979 Eastern Conference Finals, has died today at the age of 74, per multiple reports. 

His official obituary comes courtesy of Tranquility Paths, and partially reads: 

"The hockey community mourns the loss of Gilles Gilbert, a legendary figure in the history of the sport, with great sorrow. On August 6, 2023, the former Boston Bruins goalie passed away, leaving behind a legacy that will live on in the minds of hockey fans all over the world. Gilbert passed away when he was 73 years old.

Gilbert, who was born on April 7, 1950, in Saint-Esprit, Quebec, Canada, had a passion for sports from a young age. As a goaltender, he paved the way to success by showcasing exceptional agility, lightning-fast reflexes, and an unrivaled competitive spirit. In 1969, when he was selected by the Minnesota North Stars, his NHL career officially began. His time with the Boston Bruins, though, is what really cemented his place in hockey history.

During his time with the Boston Bruins, which lasted from 1973 through 1980, Gilbert significantly contributed to the team’s success. He was known for making incredible saves and maintaining his calm under duress. In 1974 and 1976, he was a key factor in the Bruins’ Stanley Cup victories. He developed a close relationship with the Boston crowd during his tenure there, earning the loving moniker “Gilbert the Great.”

Gilbert was well-known for his contagious nature off the ice and his commitment to volunteerism. Even after his playing days were over, he continued to be actively involved in humanitarian work, inspiring a new generation of hockey players with his unwavering love for the game." 

He would spend 14 seasons in the National Hockey League playing for the Bruins, Detroit Red Wings and Minnesota North Stars. Eventually forming a tandem with Gerry Cheevers in Boston, Gilbert would rack up a record of 192-143-60 in his NHL career. 

He would retire from the NHL in 1983 after being released by the Red Wings at age 34. 

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