Ron Duguay, a former NHL All-Star, has died following a brief battle with colon cancer. He was 69.
A right winger and center, Duguay was best known for his years with the New York Rangers.
The Sudbury, Ontario, native was selected by the Rangers 13th overall in the 1977 draft and reached the Stanley Cup Final with the team in 1979.
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He played 864 NHL regular-season games over 12 seasons, scoring 274 goals and 346 assists for 620 points. His best NHL season was 1984–85, when he recorded 89 points for the Detroit Red Wings.
He also represented the Rangers at the 1982 NHL All-Star Game.
The Rangers released a statement Thursday, saying in part, “The New York Rangers organization mourns the loss of Ron Duguay, one of the most popular players in franchise history. Ron’s signature skating style – with his hair flowing as he moved down the ice – captivated The Garden Faithful, and his skill, tenacity, and charisma earned him the admiration of all New Yorkers. We join the hockey community in sending our condolences to Ron’s friends, family, and loved ones during this difficult time.”
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The New York Rangers organization mourns the loss of Ron Duguay, one of the most popular players in franchise history. Ron’s signature skating style – with his hair flowing as he moved down the ice – captivated The Garden Faithful, and his skill, tenacity, and charisma earned him… pic.twitter.com/q1FzskSdN5
— New York Rangers (@NYRangers) October 22, 2026
After stints with Detroit, Pittsburgh and Los Angeles, he returned to New York and later worked as a Rangers studio analyst.
Duguay revealed in February that he had been diagnosed with stage 4 colon cancer in late 2024. He said the cancer spread beyond his colon and required surgery involving his appendix and gallbladder.
Duguay has been in a relationship with former Alaska Gov. Sarah Palin since 2022. Palin has supported him during his cancer treatment, and his daughter has shared images of her helping care for him in the hospital.
Palin also shared a tribute to Duguay on her social media accounts, saying “It’s with a shattered heart, but also deep peace knowing Ron is with Jesus now. He fought so hard. Love never ends.”