Former Canadiens Player Phil Goyette Passes Away
Former Canadiens player Phil Goyette has passed away at the age of 92. Goyette, an iconic figure in hockey history, was the second oldest former player of the Montreal Canadiens. He was born on October 31, 1933, in Lachine, Quebec.
Phil Goyette’s Hockey Legacy
During his career, Goyette played as a center and achieved significant collective success with the Canadiens. He was instrumental in four consecutive Stanley Cup victories from 1957 to 1960. Goyette played alongside legends like Jean Béliveau and Henri Richard, contributing mainly in a defensive role.
A Notable Trade and Career Development
On June 4, 1963, Goyette was traded to the New York Rangers along with Don Marshall and Jacques Plante. In exchange, the Canadiens received Lorne Worsley, Dave Balon, Normand Rochefort, and Len Ronson. Goyette initially struggled with this transition but soon found his footing in New York.
- Best scorer for the Rangers in:
- 1963-1964 with 65 points
- 1966-1967 with 65 points
Career Highlights and Awards
In the 1969-1970 season, Goyette, at 36 years old, finished fourth in league scoring. He recorded personal bests with 29 goals and 49 assists, tallying a total of 78 points with the St. Louis Blues. Goyette also contributed 14 points in 16 playoff games that season.
For his sportsmanship, Goyette was awarded the Lady Byng Trophy, given to the NHL player who displays gentlemanly conduct. Throughout his career, he was known for his discipline, as he received no more than 18 penalty minutes in a single season.
Retirement and Coaching
Goyette’s playing career ended in 1972. He then took on a coaching role with the New York Islanders. Unfortunately, his time as a coach was short-lived, as he was dismissed midway through the season after the team struggled with a record of 6-40-4.
Reflecting on his coaching experience, Goyette noted, “When the carriage goes badly, it’s not the horses that are changed, but the driver.” He felt he lacked the necessary resources to compete effectively.
Following his coaching stint, Goyette returned to his hometown of Lachine, where he left a lasting legacy in the world of hockey.
