Toronto Maple Leafs Legend Bobby Baun Passes Away at 86
Toronto Maple Leafs icon Bobby Baun has passed away at the age of 86, as officially announced by the team on Tuesday. Renowned for his rugged style as a defenseman, Baun played an integral role in four Stanley Cup victories with the Maple Leafs.
Bobby Baun commenced his tenure with the Maple Leafs during the 1956-57 season and remained a stalwart of the franchise for the initial 11 seasons of his career. A standout achievement was Baun’s contribution to Toronto’s triumphant three consecutive Stanley Cup wins from 1962 to 1964.
In an unforgettable moment during the 1964 Stanley Cup Final against the Detroit Red Wings, Baun remarkably scored the game-winning goal in overtime despite having a broken leg. Expressing his condolences, Maple Leafs President Brendan Shanahan emphasized Baun’s enduring impact on the team.
“The Toronto Maple Leafs are profoundly saddened by the loss of Bobby Baun, whose lasting legacy of extraordinary resilience includes his iconic overtime-winning goal during a Stanley Cup Final while playing with a fractured leg.”
“Bob epitomized unwavering toughness and an immense sense of pride in representing the Toronto Maple Leafs. His enduring influence continues to encapsulate the spirit of the sport. We will deeply miss him, and our sympathies go out to Bob’s family during this challenging period.”
Following his selection by the Oakland Seals in the 1967 NHL Expansion Draft, Baun spent a season there before being traded to the Red Wings in 1968. Nevertheless, he did return to Toronto for the final 137 games of his professional career.
However, Baun’s career was cut short by a neck injury during the fifth game of the 1972-73 season. Across his 964 NHL games, Baun achieved a total of 37 goals, 187 assists, 224 points, and accumulated 1,489 penalty minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Hockey Icon
Who was Bobby Baun?
Bobby Baun was a legendary defenseman for the Toronto Maple Leafs, known for his tough playing style and resilience on the ice.
How many Stanley Cups did Bobby Baun win?
Bobby Baun was part of four different Stanley Cup championship teams with the Toronto Maple Leafs, contributing to the team’s success in the early 1960s.
What was Baun’s most famous moment?
In the 1964 Stanley Cup Final against the Detroit Red Wings, Baun scored the overtime winner in Game 6 despite playing with a broken leg, making it an iconic moment in NHL history.
What were Bobby Baun’s career stats?
Over his 964 NHL games, Bobby Baun recorded 37 goals, 187 assists, 224 points, and accumulated 1,489 penalty minutes.
How did Baun’s career come to an end?
Five games into the 1972-73 season, Baun suffered a neck injury that ultimately ended his playing career.
How is Bobby Baun remembered by the Maple Leafs organization?
The Maple Leafs organization honors Bobby Baun for his remarkable resilience and enduring legacy, which continues to inspire players and fans alike.
More about Hockey Icon
- Toronto Maple Leafs Official Website: Get official updates and news about the Toronto Maple Leafs and their legendary players like Bobby Baun.
- Bobby Baun’s NHL Profile: Learn more about Bobby Baun’s NHL career stats, achievements, and milestones.
- Stanley Cup History: Explore the history of the Stanley Cup and the teams that have achieved victory, including Bobby Baun’s contributions.
- NHL Legends: Discover stories about iconic NHL players like Bobby Baun and their impact on the game.
- Maple Leafs Heritage Moments: Watch videos and highlights showcasing memorable moments in Toronto Maple Leafs history, such as Bobby Baun’s historic broken leg goal.
4 comments
sad news, eh? bobby baun, tough maple leafs hero, scores on broken leg, real inspiration for us all. RIP, bauny!
baun, a real hard-hittin’ defenseman, part of cup wins, insane goal on BROKEN leg! respect! maple leafs forever!
omg bobby baun, total legend of toronto maple leafs. broke leg and still scores, crazy stuff! sooo sad he’s gone 🙁
wow bobby baun was like a real tough guy on ice, eh? played tonsa seasons for maple leafs. stanley cups too! what a legend!