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The hockey world is mourning as Cliff Fletcher, one of the most respected general managers in NHL history, has died at 90.
Born in Montreal in 1935, Fletcher saw his career begin where it all started for many hockey men of his era.
He began by working within none other than the Montreal Canadiens organization.
The Canadiens hired him as a scout in 1956.
He learned the trade under the legendary Sam Pollock, an iconic figure in the history of the Canadiens.
Evaluating talent, building teams, thinking long-term – qualities he quickly developed.
His reputation was built over decades.
Nicknamed “Trader Cliff” for his bold transactions, he pulled off some of the biggest trades in NHL history.
But his masterpiece remains etched in Calgary.
In 1989, he assembled the team that delivered the Flames the only Stanley Cup championship in franchise history.
From Canadiens scout to Stanley Cup architect
The NHL paid an emotional tribute to his memory.
The league described him as the architect of Calgary’s 1989 Stanley Cup championship.
His executive career was remarkably long-lasting.
As the first general manager of the Flames franchise, he also guided the Blues to major success in their early years.
He later took over the Toronto Maple Leafs and helped transform the organization.
A career spanning nearly 70 years in professional hockey – imagine that.
Inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 2004, Fletcher is survived by his family, including his son Chuck, who also became an NHL executive.
You can view the league’s tribute here:
Born in Quebec, developed by the Canadiens, and crowned in Calgary, Fletcher carried the values of Canadian hockey throughout the league.
The hockey world will remember him as a legendary builder.
Previously on Montreal Hockey Fanatics
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Former Canadiens scout and Hockey Hall of Famer Cliff Fletcher dies at 90
Did Cliff Fletcher deserve his place among the greatest NHL executives of all time?