Al MacNeil, NHL Player and Coach, Dies at 89

Al MacNeil, the first Atlantic Canadian to coach in the NHL, has died at the age of 89 in Calgary. Known for his impressive hockey career, MacNeil played 524 games as a defenseman and later won the Stanley Cup as the head coach of the Montreal Canadiens in 1971, as well as three more Cups in executive roles. His coaching career extended to the Atlanta Flames and Calgary Flames, where he became a respected figure in the community. NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman praised MacNeil's profound impact on hockey over seven decades, highlighting his professionalism and humility. MacNeil is survived by his wife, Norma, and son, Allister, leaving behind a legacy of mentorship and success both on and off the ice.