The Hockey Community Mourns The Death Of The NHL's �Oldest Rookie'

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Hunter Bowman
January 9, 2024 (10:15 PM)

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In somber news, the hockey community mourns the loss of Connie 'Mad Dog' Madigan.

NHL coach and broadcaster Don Cherry took to social media to share the news of Madigan's passing at the age of 89.

Madigan had a brief stint of 20 NHL games with the St. Louis Blues but etched his name into the annals of the old professional WHL with the Portland Buckaroos. He holds a distinctive record as the oldest rookie in NHL history, making his debut at the age of 38 in January 1973.

Renowned for his tough and no-nonsense playing style, Madigan earned the moniker 'Mad Dog' by accumulating fighting majors and became the 2nd all-time leader in minor league penalty minutes upon his return in 1976.

Hailing from Port Arthur, Ontario, Madigan played junior hockey in his hometown before turning pro in 1958. Over his career, he notched 97 goals, 503 points, and an impressive 1,846 penalty minutes in 806 WHL games.

Don Cherry, affectionately known as Grapes, offered his condolences, stating:

"Sorry to hear about the passing of my old roommate and buddy, Connie 'Mad Dog' Madigan. One of the toughest guys I played with or against. Not sure why he's in his street clothes in Spokane's team picture. Godspeed Connie."

Source: Hawksinsider