The Chicago Blackhawks and the hockey world lost a defensive legend as Pierre Pilote passed away Saturday at the age of 85. The three-time Norris Trophy winner played 13 season for the Blackhawks and then one final season for the Toronto Maple Leafs.
Pilote was at his best during the stretch from 1960 to 1967, where he reached either the first or second all-star team in all of those years. He won the Norris Trophy, given to the NHL’s best defenseman, in 1963, 1964 and 1965 and was a runner up for the Trophy in 1962, 1966 and 1967. In 1961, Pilote helped lead the team to a Stanley Cup and was named captain of the Blackhawks the following year.
“The Chicago Blackhawks offer our sincere condolences to the family of Pierre Pilote as we mourn his passing. Pierre was one of the most decorated defenseman in NHL history and was a valuable member of the 1961 Stanley Cup championship team. He will be remembered for his toughness, leadership and reliability on the ice, as proven by his captaincy and streak of 376 consecutive games played. We will forever be grateful for his incredible contribution to the Blackhawks and the game of hockey.”
Pilote finished his career having played 821 games and scoring 477 points (77 goals and 400 assists). His No. 3 sweater was retired by the Blackhawks in 2008.
Lost a legend here in Chicago today.
RIP Pierre
Was my favorite defenseman -on my favorite team-A great human being R.I.P.