A Hall of Fame goalie and coach who led the New York Rangers to a Stanley Cup Finals appearance in 1972, known for his innovative coaching style and defensive systems.
Known as "The Cat," Emile Francis was a Canadian ice hockey player, coach, and general manager who left an indelible mark on the National Hockey League (NHL). With a career spanning over four decades, Francis played for the Chicago Black Hawks and New York Rangers, and later went on to become a successful coach and general manager, leading the Rangers to nine consecutive playoff appearances from 1967 to 1975.
Born on September 13, 1926, in North Battleford, Saskatchewan, Francis was raised by his mother, Yvonne Francis, after his father's untimely death when he was just eight years old. One of his uncles taught him how to play ice hockey, which would become his lifelong passion. Francis enlisted in the Canadian military at 16, but soon returned to hockey, citing his desire to focus on the sport.
Francis began his professional career in 1943-1944 with the Philadelphia Falcons of the Eastern Hockey League. He later acquired his nickname "The Cat" while playing for the Moose Jaw Canucks of the Saskatchewan Junior Hockey League during the 1945-1946 season, when a sportswriter described him as "quick as a cat." This moniker would stick with him throughout his illustrious career.
After hanging up his skates, Francis went on to become a successful coach and general manager. He served as the assistant general manager of the New York Rangers in 1962, before becoming the general manager of the Rangers, St. Louis Blues, and Hartford Whalers from 1964 to 1989.
Emile Francis's contributions to the NHL extend far beyond his playing career. As a coach and general manager, he played a pivotal role in shaping the league into what it is today. His nine consecutive playoff appearances with the Rangers set a precedent for consistency and excellence in the NHL.
Francis's legacy continues to inspire generations of hockey players, coaches, and executives. His dedication, perseverance, and innovative approach to the game have cemented his place as one of the greatest figures in NHL history.
94 Years Old
Legendary Montreal Canadiens captain and four-time Stanley Cup champion, known for his exceptional leadership and scoring prowess.
90 Years Old
A Hall of Fame center who won a record 11 Stanley Cup championships with the Montreal Canadiens, earning the nickname "The Pocket Rocket" for his speed and agility.
Born in 1921
Legendary hockey player and coach, known for being the first to score 50 goals in a single season and leading the Montreal Canadiens to eight Stanley Cup championships.
97 Years Old
Goalie pioneer who introduced the first goalie mask and won six Stanley Cups with Montreal Canadiens, revolutionizing the sport with innovative playing style and equipment.
Born in 1924
A Hall of Fame defenseman and coach, known for his innovative and aggressive playing style, which earned him numerous awards and accolades.
77 Years Old
Lead vocalist and guitarist of the Doobie Brothers, known for his soulful voice and hit songs like "What a Fool Believes" and "Minute by Minute".
72 Years Old
A Hall of Fame left winger who won five Stanley Cups with the Montreal Canadiens and is known for his defensive prowess, earning him the Frank J. Selke Trophy four times.
74 Years Old
A legendary hockey player who won five Stanley Cup championships and was known for his speed, scoring ability, and charismatic personality. He is considered one of the greatest players in NHL history.
