Hockey Hall of Famer Guy Lafleur has died

Former Montreal Canadiens right wing and Hockey Hall of Famer Guy LaFleur has died.

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He was 70, CBC reported.

Lafleur had been diagnosed with lung cancer, but a cause of death has not been released, The Associated Press reported.

Tumors were found when he was undergoing emergency quadruple bypass surgery.

“We are deeply saddened to learn of the death of Guy Lafleur. All members of the Canadiens organization are devastated by his passing,” Canadiens President Geoff Molson said in a statement to the AP.

“Guy Lafleur had an exceptional career and always remained simple, accessible, and close to the Habs and hockey fans in Quebec, Canada and around the world. Throughout his career, he allowed us to experience great moments of collective pride. He was one of the greatest players in our organization while becoming an extraordinary ambassador for our sport.”

Lafleur was born on Sept. 20, 1951, in Thurso, Quebec.

He got his start playing peewee hockey in Canada. He played junior hockey for the Quebec Jr. Aces and Quebec Ramparts, leading the ramparts to the Memorial Cup title in 1971, CBC reported.

Nicknamed “The Flower,” Lafleur was drafted in 1971 as the No. 1 pick.

He had 518 goals and 728 assists when he played for the Canadiens and in 124 playoff appearances, the right wing had 133 points — 57 goals and 76 assists, the AP reported.

He had six consecutive seasons with at least 50 goals and 100 points, CBC reported.

Lafleur also brought the Canadiens four consecutive Stanely Cup titles from 1976 to 1979. He also won the Hart Trophy twice and the Conn Smythe Trophy for playoff MVP in 1977, CBC reported.

In 1981, he was almost killed in a car crash while driving home. A post smashed through the car’s windshield, missing his head by inches, CBC reported.

Lafleur retired shortly after the start of the 1984 season, but returned for the 1988-89 season, after being selected for the Hall of Fame in 1988, playing for the New York Rangers. The following two seasons he played for the Quebec Nordiques but then retired a second time after the end of the 1991 season, the AP reported.

Lafleur left behind his two sons, Mark and Martin, and Lise, his wife, CBC reported.

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Through the years Montreal Canadien Guy Lafleur kisses the Stanley Cup while Montreal captain Henri Richard holds the cup Thursday night, May 10, 1973 in Chicago. Montreal beat Chicago 6-4 and won the National Hockey League playoff. (AP Photo) (Anonymous/ASSOCIATED PRESS)

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