Ken Dryden’s passing quiets a hockey giant. Serge Savard recalls the 23-year-old rookie who walked into the Canadiens’ room with books under his arm, balancing Cornell and McGill while rising to become a pivotal figure in Montreal hockey. Dryden’s six Cups and five Vezinas defined an era, reshaping the goaltender’s role and the franchise’s lore. Tributes from Carey Price and Martin Brodeur highlighted his lasting influence, while Bettman praised his broader impact. Dryden’s later leadership with the Maple Leafs and public‑life pursuits capped a remarkable life at 78 after a cancer battle.

Ken Dryden, Montreal Canadiens goaltending legend, died at 78 after a battle with cancer. His eight NHL seasons yielded six Stanley Cups, five Vezina Trophies, Calder rookie honor, and a Conn Smythe as playoffs MVP. Dryden’s influence extended beyond the ice to Toronto Maple Leafs front office, writing, and public service as a Canadian Parliament member. His era featured a landmark 1972 Summit Series. Montreal’s dynastic run under Dryden remains a gold standard for goalie excellence.

Dryden’s resume includes Cornell dominance, a 76-4-1 college record, and a playoff aura that defined goaltending in the 1970s. His legacy blends elite performance with leadership across hockey and country, making him a perennial benchmark for fantasy stalwarts valuing playoff pedigree and dynasty-era peak.

Ken Dryden defined hockey as more than a sport; it became a lens on national identity, intellect, and culture. This tribute traces how his goalie genius and inner monologue sharpened hockey’s meaning, from Summit Series reflections to Atlantic meditations, turning the rink into Canada's living handbook.

With Dryden gone, the piece asks who will carry hockey’s thoughtful torch—someone able to dissect patriotism at the rink without shouting, and to remind fans that the game can matter, study, and still thrill.

Connor McDavid isn’t in a rush to re-sign with Edmonton, and the Oilers are playing the long game. LeBrun says the negotiation will be quick once McDavid is ready, but the key question is what length and structure he wants to commit to. The earliest worry for Oilers fans could come at season start if there’s no extension, yet McDavid’s leverage is clear: he wants to understand the team’s direction before sealing a multi-year deal. Leon Draisaitl’s extension a year ago provides context, but the center of gravity remains McDavid’s timeline and the franchise’s future shape.

Edmonton will stay patient and cordial, building the path to a deal around McDavid’s heart and mind. If or when he signs, expect a compact, five-minute negotiation rather than a protracted auction. The broader rumor mill about All-Star concepts and other contracts underscores how fragile cap planning remains, but this is squarely a McDavid-first situation that could redefine the Oilers’ ceiling for years to come.