Legendary Toronto Maple Leafs player Ron Ellis has passed away at the age of 79. Ellis, who played over 1,000 games with the Maple Leafs, was a beloved figure in the hockey community and will be deeply missed.
Ellis began his career with the Maple Leafs in 1964 and quickly became a fan favorite. He was known for his strong work ethic and leadership on and off the ice. Ellis was a key player in the Maple Leafs’ 1967 Stanley Cup win, scoring the game-winning goal in Game 6 against the Montreal Canadiens.
Throughout his 16 seasons with the Maple Leafs, Ellis was a consistent and reliable player, scoring 332 goals and 308 assists. He was also known for his defensive skills, earning him a spot on the NHL All-Star Team in 1972.
After retiring from the NHL in 1981, Ellis remained involved in the hockey community, serving as a coach and mentor to young players. He was also a strong advocate for mental health awareness, sharing his own struggles with depression and encouraging others to seek help.
The Maple Leafs organization released a statement mourning the loss of Ellis and honoring his contributions to the team. “Ron was not only a great player, but also a great person who will be remembered for his kindness, generosity, and dedication to the game of hockey,” the statement read.
Fans and fellow players have taken to social media to pay tribute to Ellis and share their memories of him. Former teammate Darryl Sittler described Ellis as a “true gentleman” and a “class act.”
Ellis’ impact on the Maple Leafs and the hockey community as a whole will never be forgotten. He will be remembered as a talented player, a respected leader, and a beloved figure in the sport. Our thoughts and condolences go out to his family and friends during this difficult time.
