Sutherland played the final two seasons of his career with the Jets from 1972-74 when the team was part of the World Hockey Association. He was an original member of the Jets, playing 48 games during the inaugural 1972-73 season. After his playing career, he was part of the Jets coaching staff from 1979-89, including serving as the head coach for the last three games of the 1979-80 season and the first 29 games of the 1980-81 season.
"Bill was a major part of the Jets organization in the 70s and 80s and is an integral part of our hockey history," said Mark Chipman, chairman of True North Sports + Entertainment. "He will forever by remembered by our organization and alumni. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family."
Sutherland played for five NHL teams during his career, including the Montreal Canadiens, Toronto Maple Leafs, Philadelphia Flyers, St. Louis Blues and Detroit Red Wings. He played his junior hockey in Winnipeg with the St. Boniface Canadiens of the Manitoba Junior Hockey League.
