Remembering The Great Player And Person, Ken Dryden

Often in the many posts written/typed here over the years, I cited the greatness of goaltender Ken Dryden.

Now (who knew he was sick?!)Dryden, who goaltended great Montreal Canadiens teams to an incredible 6 titles in 8 full seasons (’72-’79, he was not even a rookie when he burst on the ’71 playoffs scene and led third place Montreal to an upset crown) has died, far too young, at age 78.

He “burst” when I loved two teams, for a long time not the case and Dryden led Montreal over each, yet I l remain awed by the achievement and even love it.

Dryden had not even achieved rookie status (he won the Calder Trophy as the NHL top rookie, the next season ’71-’72, one of only 2 seasons Ken played and the Cup did not go to Montreal) when his brilliant goaltending led the Habs, a third place team to the title, allowing their captain the great Jean Beliveau, to “go out” a champion, as similar greats Joe DiMaggio and Bill Russell, had respectively achieved 20 and 2 years before.

Oh the memories vs my then two teams, (the record breaking, defending champion Boston Bruins and Chicago Blackhawks, each of whom finished first and had home advantage, when Dryden’s sensational save on Phil “Espo” (Phil’s brother Tony and Ken shared goaltending duties when Canada won a rousing “Summit Series” 4-3-1 vs Russia in the fall of 1972) caused Phil to react with the on ice glass.

Even more sensational and when all is considered, not so arguably the greatest hockey save was made by Ken on the excellent “Chi” player, Jim Pappin, in the waning minute or so of a (3-2) Montreal win in #7 for “all the marbles” in 1971.

In subsequent years, ’73 and ’76-’79 Ken, with a great defense in front of him and part of a truly all-time team, backstopped 5 title winners.

There is so much more regarding the eloquent, brilliant Ken Dryden.

I close with this and maybe it will “click” with Mr. Dryden on the hopefully, continuing journey.

Only Ken among the many athletes I called and tried to record when that was possible, another era or even two ago, perceived/”caught” me, politely asking are you tape (remember that and where might it be?!) recording this?

One of a great kind, go easy, Mr. Dryden and thanks for a life so well lived.

Click below to read one of my myriad references regarding Ken Dryden and his magnificent career.

Exact Dates/Defending Champions Ousted on April 18, 2021

The video includes the great Montreal and all of hockey broadcaster, Danny Gallivan’s so memorable calls.