Don Marshall, a former NHL All-Star whose career spanned 20 years from 1952 to 1972 with four different franchises, has died at the age of 92. Marshall spent the majority of his NHL career between the Montreal Canadiens and the New York Rangers, while also playing for the Buffalo Sabres and Toronto Maple Leafs.
Marshall was an integral member of the Canadiens teams of the 1950s, which won an NHL record five consecutive Stanley Cups from 1956 to 1960. Marshall did much of his work as part of the team’s checking line alongside Phil Goyette and Claude Provost, and he would play for the franchise from 1951 to 1963 with 254 points including 114 goals and 140 assists.
“The Canadiens extend their deepest condolences to Donnie’s family, friends and loved ones,” the team said in a statement. “Our thoughts are with them at during this difficult time. He will always be remembered as one of the great champions in the history of the organization.”
After leaving the Canadiens following the 1962-63 season, Marshall spent the second half of his career with the New York Rangers, where he served as both an alternate captain and an assistant coach. Marshall would make the 1968 NHL All-Star Game as a member of the second team, and he would play seven seasons in all for the Blueshirts before finishing his career playing one season each for the Sabres and Maple Leafs.
Marshall retired from hockey at the end of the 1971-72 season, finishing his career with 265 goals and 324 assists in 1,176 career games. He was also one of the last surviving members of the 1950s Canadiens dynasty, which has lost other members in recent years including Dickie Moore, Jean Béliveau, Gilles Tremblay, Elmer Lach and Dollard St.Laurent.
Don Marshall, a former NHL All-Star and member of the Montreal Canadiens dynasty in the 1950s, has passed away at the age of 92. Marshall was a key player for the Canadiens during their dominant years in the 1950s, helping the team win five Stanley Cup championships.
Marshall was born on March 23, 1932, in Verdun, Quebec. He began his professional hockey career with the Montreal Royals of the Quebec Senior Hockey League before joining the Canadiens in 1951. Marshall quickly established himself as a reliable forward for the team, known for his strong defensive play and scoring touch.
During his time with the Canadiens, Marshall played alongside legendary players such as Maurice Richard, Jean Beliveau, and Doug Harvey. He was known for his versatility on the ice, able to play both as a center and a left winger. Marshall’s strong two-way play and leadership qualities made him a valuable asset to the team.
In addition to his success with the Canadiens, Marshall also represented Canada internationally, winning a silver medal at the 1956 Winter Olympics in Cortina d’Ampezzo, Italy. He was also selected to play in the NHL All-Star Game in 1958.
After retiring from professional hockey in 1963, Marshall remained involved in the sport as a coach and scout. He was inducted into the Quebec Sports Hall of Fame in 2007 in recognition of his contributions to hockey in the province.
Marshall’s passing is a loss for the hockey community, as he was not only a talented player but also a respected figure both on and off the ice. His legacy will live on through his contributions to the game and the impact he had on those who knew him.
Our thoughts are with Marshall’s family and friends during this difficult time. He will be remembered as a true hockey great and a beloved member of the Montreal Canadiens family.
