“Behind the Mask: The Untold Legacy of Greg Millen – Ex-NHL Goalie and Beloved Broadcaster Passes at 67”

"Behind the Mask: The Untold Legacy of Greg Millen - Ex-NHL Goalie and Beloved Broadcaster Passes at 67"

In the world of hockey, few names resonate as deeply as Greg Millen. A formidable goalie who graced the ice for 14 seasons in the NHL, he wasn’t just a player; he became a beloved staple of Canadian culture through his work on “Hockey Night in Canada.” Today, we mourn the loss of this incredible figure who passed away at the age of 67, leaving a legacy that spans beyond the rink. The circumstances surrounding his passing remain undisclosed, and the shockwaves of this news have rippled through the hockey community. In a heartfelt statement, the NHL Alumni Association expressed their sorrow, offering thoughts and prayers to Millen’s family during this harrowing time. As we reflect on his impactful career and unforgettable presence, let’s delve deeper into the life and contributions of Greg Millen. LEARN MORE

Greg Millen, who spent 14 years in the NHL and became a household name in Canada on “Hockey Night in Canada,” died at the age of 67. 

No cause of death was given. 

“It is with heavy hearts we share the sudden passing of Greg Millen today,” the NHL Alumni Association said in a statement on Monday. “Our deepest thoughts and prayers are with Greg’s family at this very difficult time.”


Greg Millen talks with the media about his friendship with Bob Cole as he leaves Cole’s memorial service at the St. Thomas Anglican Church in St. John’s, Friday, May 3, 2024. AP

Millen was selected by the Penguins in the sixth round in 1977 before spending the next 14 seasons tending net for the Penguins, Hartford Whalers, St. Louis Blues, Quebec Nordiques, Chicago Blackhawks and Detroit Red Wings.

His best career year came during the 1988-89 season while he was playing with the Blues.

He posted a 3.38 goals against average and .879 save percentage with a league-leading six shutouts. 

During his career, Millen went 215-284 with 89 ties, while recording a 3.88 GAA, .873 save percentage and 17 shutouts. 

In the postseason, Millen had a 3.43 GAA and .885 save percentage. 

He hung up his pads after the 1991-92 season and moved into the broadcast booth during the 1992-93 season, covering the Ottawa Senators, who were beginning their inaugural season in the NHL. 

He would eventually move into the “Hockey Night in Canada” booth as an analyst, as well as working for Sportsnet in Canada. 


Edmonton Oilers' Wayne Gretzky (99) reaches out to handle the puck in front of St. Louis Blues' goalie Greg Millen (29) to set up a scoring attempt during the first period of NHL game played, Wednesday, Jan. 29, 1986 in St. Louis.
Edmonton Oilers’ Wayne Gretzky reaches out to handle the puck in front of St. Louis Blues’ goalie Greg Millen to set up a scoring attempt during the first period of NHL game played, Wednesday, Jan. 29, 1986 in St. Louis. AP

Millen covered 12 Stanley Cup Finals, three Olympic Games and two World Cup of Hockeys. 

“His broadcasting career includes roles as a colour commentator for CBC’s Hockey Night in Canada and the NHL on Sportsnet, where he worked alongside Hockey Night in Canada Greats Bob Cole, Harry Neale, Don Cherry, Ron MacLean and Jim Hughson. Greg worked with our NHL Alumni Executive Director Glenn Healy where both served as analysts and were part of the same Hockey Night in Canada broadcast team,” the alumni association said in a statement. 

“He was known and loved by all in the broadcasting world!” 

Millen is survived by his wife and four children.

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