Ed Giacomin, a Hockey Hall of Fame goaltender and beloved figure for the New York Rangers, has died at the age of 86. News of his passing on Monday, September 15, 2025, was confirmed by the Rangers and the NHL Alumni Association. A spokesperson for the NHL Alumni Association stated that Giacomin died at his home on Sunday night.

Born in Sudbury, Ontario, on June 6, 1939, Edward "Eddie" Giacomin was a prominent figure in the NHL from 1965 to 1978, primarily with the New York Rangers. He spent a decade with the Rangers, becoming synonymous with the team during the 1960s and 70s. Giacomin's impact on the Rangers was so profound that the organization stated, "You cannot discuss the history of this organization and not immediately think of Eddie".

Giacomin was known for his exceptional puck-handling skills and willingness to leave the crease, a relatively uncommon practice for goaltenders of his era. This daring style, combined with his outstanding athleticism, made him a fan favorite at Madison Square Garden, where chants of "Ed-die! Ed-die!" frequently echoed through the stands.

His NHL career began in 1965 when the Rangers acquired him from the Providence Reds of the American Hockey League. After a rocky start, Giacomin found his stride in the 1966-67 season, leading the NHL with 30 wins and nine shutouts. That season marked the beginning of three consecutive years in which he led the league in wins. From 1966-1975, Giacomin led the Rangers to nine straight postseason appearances.

Giacomin's stellar play earned him numerous accolades throughout his career. He was a six-time All-Star. In 1970-71, he was awarded the Vezina Trophy as the league's top goaltender, sharing the honor with teammate Gilles Villemure. He was also named to the NHL First All-Star Team twice, in 1967 and 1971. Moreover, he was named to the NHL Second All-Star Team for three straight years from 1968-1970.

One of Giacomin's most memorable seasons came in 1971-72 when he backstopped the Rangers to the Stanley Cup Final. Although the Rangers lost to the Boston Bruins in a hard-fought six-game series, Giacomin's performance solidified his place in Rangers history.

After more than a decade with the Rangers, Giacomin was claimed off waivers by the Detroit Red Wings in 1975. His return to Madison Square Garden as a member of the Red Wings was met with a standing ovation and continued chants of "Eddie, Eddie!". He played for Detroit until 1978, retiring with a career record of 290 wins and 54 shutouts.

Giacomin was inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 1987. On March 15, 1989, the Rangers retired his No. 1 jersey, forever enshrining him as a Rangers legend.

In retirement, Giacomin remained involved in hockey, serving as a broadcaster for the New York Islanders and later as an assistant coach for both the Islanders and the Red Wings. He also had two stints as a goaltending coach for the Rangers.

The New York Rangers released a statement acknowledging Giacomin's death, recognizing his integral role in the team's history and his embodiment of what it meant to be a Ranger. The NHL also issued a statement, calling Giacomin "a true original" and expressing condolences to his family, friends, and fans.