Ron Duguay, ex-NHL star and boyfriend of Sarah Palin, dies at 69

Ron Duguay, who played nearly 1,000 games in the NHL from the late 1970s through the ‘80s, has died of cancer. He was 69.

A spokesperson for the New York Rangers said Thursday that Duguay’s family informed the team of his death.

Duguay played his first six seasons with the Rangers after they selected him with the 13th pick in the draft in 1977. The Sudbury, Ontario, native was an All-Star as a point-a-game producer in 1981-82.

A series of trades led him to spend time with the Detroit Red Wings, Pittsburgh Penguins and Los Angeles Kings with another Rangers stint, as well. Duguay finished his career in the league with 673 points in the regular season and playoffs, then played in Germany and the minors.

“The New York Rangers organization mourns the loss of Ron Duguay, one of the most popular players in franchise history,” the club said in a statement. “Ron’s signature skating style — with his hair flowing as he moved down the ice — captivated the (Madison Square) Garden faithful, and his skill, tenacity and charisma earned him the admiration of all New Yorkers. We join the hockey community in sending our condolences to Ron’s friends…

Original source: https://www.nbcnews.com/sports