Greg Millen, a former NHL goaltender turned popular broadcaster, passed away on Monday at the age of 67. The NHL Alumni Association shared the news on social media, though no cause of death was provided.
A 14-Year NHL Career with Six Teams
Millen had a long and notable career in the NHL, playing 14 seasons with six different teams: the Pittsburgh Penguins, Hartford Whalers, St. Louis Blues, Quebec Nordiques, Chicago Blackhawks, and Detroit Red Wings.
He finished his playing career with a record of 215 wins, 284 losses, and 89 ties. His goals-against average was 3.88, and he recorded 17 shutouts. He was originally drafted by the Penguins in the sixth round of the 1977 NHL Draft.
From the Ice to the Broadcast Booth
Right after retiring from professional hockey, Millen transitioned into broadcasting. He began his new career during the Ottawa Senators’ inaugural season in 1992–93.
Over the next three decades, he became a familiar face and voice in Canadian homes. Millen worked with CBC’s “Hockey Night in Canada” and NHL on Sportsnet. He also covered major events such as three Olympic Games, two World Cups of Hockey, 12 Stanley Cup finals, and 12 NHL All-Star Games.
Tributes from the Hockey Community
Many NHL teams and former players paid tribute to Millen following the news of his passing. The Pittsburgh Penguins expressed their condolences to his family and friends, remembering him both as a player and broadcaster.
The St. Louis Blues, with whom Millen spent parts of six seasons, also shared their sympathies. NHL legend Chris Pronger wrote, “He was one of the first NHL players I got to interact with… Generous with his time and talking about the game. Lost a great man today. RIP Millsy.”
Greg Millen: A Voice Loved by Millions
Sportsnet released a heartfelt statement, calling Greg Millen a “trusted and familiar voice in the homes of millions of Canadians for more than 30 years.”
They added, “As both a player and broadcaster, Greg left an indelible mark on the sport, as well as everyone who had the pleasure to know him, watch him, and listen to him.”
Greg Millen’s impact on hockey will be remembered for years to come—both for his performances between the pipes and his insights behind the microphone.
