Bruins legend Milt Schmidt dies at 98 years old

Former Boston Bruins player, coach, and general manager Milt Schmidt has died at the age of 98 years old 

2016 was a year marked by deaths. 2017 seems to be following suit, at least for the NHL. Boston Bruins legend Milt Schmidt has passed away at the age of 98, according to the Boston Globe.

The Hockey Hall of Famer played his entire career with the Bruins where he was a four-time All-Star. He won the Hart Trophy in 1951 and finished his career with 229 goals and 346 assists in 776 games. Schmidt served as the center for the infamous “Kraut Line” that was instrumental in the team winning the Stanley Cup in 1939 and 1941.

Schmidt is arguably the most influential figure in the history of the Bruins, perhaps even more so than Bobby Orr. He served not only as a player, leading them to two Stanley Cups, but also as a coach and general manager. Immediately after retiring, Schmidt became the head coach of the Bruins, taking them to Stanley Cup Final appearances in 1957 and 1958. He coached Boston for 726 games and also coached the expansion Washington Capitals for 44 games.

He later spent a spell as the Bruins’ general manager. As great of a player as he was, Schmidt might have been an even better in the front office. He pulled the trigger on arguably the most lopsided trade in NHL history, acquiring Hall of Famer Phil Esposito from the Chicago Blackhawks.

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Even after his retirement, Schmidt remained active with the Bruins. They retired his number 15 and despite his failing health, still made appearances at their games. He was well respected around the league, with many considering him one of the most influential figures in NHL history.

Schmidt recently suffered a stroke but an official cause of death has not been revealed.