The renowned NHL player Dale Hawerchuk passed suddenly following a fight with cancer, leaving the hockey community in sadness. Nine of his sixteen NHL seasons were played with the Winnipeg Jets, where Hawerchuk, who was elected into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 2001, amassed an incredible 929 points in 713 regular-season games. He had a successful career with the Buffalo Sabres after being chosen first overall by the Jets in the 1981 NHL Draft. He later took over as head coach of the OHL’s Barrie Colts.
Beyond just his remarkable stats, Hawerchuk had a significant influence on hockey. He was well-known for his bravery and tenacity during his cancer struggle, and his fortitude and resiliency served as an inspiration to many. Tributes from players, coaches, executives, and fans alike demonstrate how deeply his passing has affected the hockey community.
Notable people including Andrei Svechnikov, Blake Wheeler, Doug Gilmour, Evander Kane, Nazem Kadri, Rick Bowness, Brian Burke, Chris Cuthbert, and Mark Chipman have sent their sympathies. Hawerchuk was honored by other teams and leagues as well. An homage to Hawerchuk will soon be erected in Winnipeg, according to plans. A guy whose influence on hockey in that city was immense is duly honored by the statue.
