Commissioner Bettman releases statement on passing of Pilote

Calls Hall of Fame defenseman 'mainstay of the Blackhawks' 1961 Cup championship

Pierre Pilote Blackhawks

© Bill Smith/Getty Images

By NHL Public Relations
@NHLPR

NEW YORK -- National Hockey League Commissioner Gary Bettman today issued this statement regarding the passing of Hockey Hall of Fame defenseman Pierre Pilote:

"A consistent, durable, dependable defender who enjoyed the offensive aspects of the position, Pierre Pilote was a team captain, an eight-time post-season All-Star and a three-time Norris Trophy winner," Commissioner Bettman said. "Mainstay of the Blackhawks' 1961 Stanley Cup champion, Pierre also was a man of humor and great dignity and a proud member of the Hockey Hall of Fame. The National Hockey League mourns Pierre's passing and sends heartfelt condolences to his family, teammates and many friends."

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