The Philadelphia Flyers and head coach Rick Tocchet are part of an organization mourning the loss of former star André Lacroix, who has passed away at 81.
The Flyers announced the passing of one of their original players, a gifted offensive center whose accomplishments stretched far beyond his time in Philadelphia.
Lacroix was part of the franchise's inaugural NHL roster in 1967-68, helping establish professional hockey in a city that would eventually become one of the league's most passionate markets.
Born in Lauzon, Quebec, Lacroix developed into a remarkable playmaker despite standing just 5-foot-8, relying on vision and creativity rather than size.
-
He led Philadelphia in scoring during the 1968-69 and 1969-70 seasons, establishing himself as an important offensive contributor during the organization's earliest years.
Lacroix's history strengthened by time with the Blackhawks
After 245 games with the Flyers, Lacroix joined the Chicago Black Hawks before making a career-defining move to the World Hockey Association.
His arrival in the WHA changed everything. Playing for the Philadelphia Blazers in 1972-73, Lacroix recorded 50 goals and 124 points, capturing the league's scoring title.
His greatest individual campaign came with the San Diego Mariners in 1974-75, when he produced an incredible 147 points, including 106 assists.
Lacroix eventually became the WHA's all-time scoring leader with 798 points and 547 assists, numbers that remain an important part of professional hockey history.
He also represented Canada during the 1974 Summit Series against the Soviet Union, contributing offensively on an international stage.
His professional journey eventually brought him back to the NHL with the Hartford Whalers, where he shared the ice with Gordie Howe before retiring.
Following his playing days, Lacroix remained involved in hockey through broadcasting, coaching and youth development, continuing to share his knowledge with younger generations.
Although his WHA accomplishments never earned him induction into the Hockey Hall of Fame, his remarkable production remains impossible to overlook.
For the Flyers and longtime hockey fans, his passing marks the loss of an original franchise figure whose influence reached well beyond Philadelphia.
HockeyFeed
Should André Lacroix be inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame for his historic WHA career?
Also read on Markerzone.com:
Connor Hellebuyck wins Devils debut, says ‘finally' when asked about the anthem
