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Ken Dryden
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Kenneth Wayne Dryden PC OC (August 8, 1947 – September 5, 2025) was a Canadian professional ice hockey goaltender, politician, lawyer, businessman and author. He played for the Montreal Canadiens of the National Hockey League (NHL) from 1971 to 1979, winning the Stanley Cup six times, the Vezina Trophy as the goaltender on the team allowing the fewest goals five times, and the Conn Smythe Trophy along with the Calder Memorial Trophy as the most valuable player of the playoffs and rookie of the year respectively over the course of his rookie campaign. He was elected as member of the Hockey Hall of Fame in 1983. Thereafter, Dryden served as a Liberal Member of Parliament from 2004 to 2011 and was appointed Minister of Social Development from 2004 to 2006 for which he was named an Officer of the Order of Canada.[1] In 2017, the NHL commemorated him as one of the league's 100 Greatest Players.[2][3] He received the Order of Hockey in Canada in 2020.[4]

Key Information

Early life and education

[edit]

Dryden was born in Hamilton, Ontario[5] to parents Murray Dryden (1911–2004) and Margaret Adelia Campbell (1912–1985), and was raised in Islington, then a suburb of Toronto. He played with the Etobicoke Indians of the Metro Junior B Hockey League as well as the Humber Valley Packers of the Metro Toronto Hockey League.[6][7]

Dryden was drafted fourteenth overall by the Boston Bruins in the 1964 NHL amateur draft.[8] Days later, on June 28,[9] the Bruins traded Dryden, along with Alex Campbell, to the Montreal Canadiens in exchange for Paul Reid and Guy Allen.[8] Dryden was told by his agent that he had been drafted by the Canadiens and did not find out until the mid-1970s that he had been drafted by the Bruins.[10]

Rather than play for the Canadiens in 1964, Dryden pursued a Bachelor of Arts in History at Cornell University, where he also played collegiately until his graduation in 1969. He backstopped the Cornell Big Red to the 1967 NCAA championship and to three consecutive ECAC tournament championships, winning 76 of his 81 varsity starts. At Cornell, he was a member of the Quill and Dagger society.[11] He also was a member of the Canada national team that participated at the 1969 World Championships tournament held in Stockholm.[12]

Dryden's jersey number 1 was retired by the Cornell Big Red on February 25, 2010; along with Joe Nieuwendyk, he is one of two players to have their numbers retired by Cornell's hockey program.[13]

Playing career

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Dryden made his NHL debut on March 14, 1971, against the Pittsburgh Penguins at Civic Arena. The Canadiens won the game 5–1, with Dryden stopping 35 of 36 shots.[14] He was called up from the minors late in the season and played only six regular season games, nonetheless posting an impressive 1.65 goals against average (GAA). This earned him the starting goaltending job for the playoffs ahead of veteran Rogie Vachon, and he helped the Canadiens to win the Stanley Cup. He also won the Conn Smythe Trophy as the most valuable player in the playoffs. He helped the Habs win the Stanley Cup five more times, in 1973, 1976, 1977, 1978, and 1979.[15]

The following season, Dryden won the Calder Memorial Trophy as the rookie of the year having not been eligible the previous year due to not playing enough regular season games. With this, he is to date the only player in league history to win the Conn Smythe Trophy before winning the rookie of the year award as well as the only goaltender to capture both the Conn Smythe and the Stanley Cup before losing a regular season game.[3] In the autumn of 1972, Dryden played for Canada in the 1972 Summit Series against the Soviet Union national team.[16]

White hockey jersey with red and blue numbers and trim hanging from a shelf with a goalkeeper mask and padded equipment
A replica Ken Dryden jersey at the Montreal Canadiens locker room display at the Hockey Hall of Fame.

Dryden played from 1971 to 1979, with a break during the entire 1973–74 season; he was unhappy with the contract that the Canadiens offered him, which he considered less than his market worth, given that he had won the Stanley Cup and Vezina Trophy. With this, he instead articled for a Toronto-based law firm in order to meet requirements for his Bachelor of Laws (LLB) degree received from McGill University in 1973.[17] He announced on September 14, 1973, that he was joining Osler, Hoskin & Harcourt, earning $135 a week.[18] During this time, Dryden also interned with Ralph Nader's Public Citizen organization. Inspired by Nader's call in Action for a Change for establishing Public Interest Research Groups, he tried to establish the Ontario Public Interest Research Group in the province of Ontario.[19] Despite his absence, the Canadiens still had a good year, going 45–24–9, but lost in the first round of the playoffs to the New York Rangers in six games. The team allowed 56 more goals in the 1973–74 season than they had the year before with Dryden.[20] He retired for the last time on July 9, 1979.[21]

Compared to those of most other great hockey players, Dryden's NHL career was very short: just over seven full seasons. Thus, he did not amass record totals in most statistical categories. As he played all his years with a dynasty and retired before he passed his prime, his statistical percentages are unparalleled. His regular season totals include a 74.3 winning percentage, a 2.24 GAA, a .922 save percentage, along with 46 shutouts in just 397 NHL games. He won the Vezina Trophy five times which, at the time, was awarded to the goaltender on the team who allowed the fewest goals. He would also likewise be selected as a First Team All-Star in each of his Vezina-winning campaigns. In 1998, he was ranked number 25 on The Hockey News' list of the Top 100 NHL Players of All Time, a remarkable achievement for a player with a comparatively brief career.[22]

At 6 ft 4 in (1.93 m), Dryden was so tall that when the puck was at the opposite end of the ice, he struck what became his trademark pose – leaning upon his stick.[23] He was known as the "four-storey goalie," and was once referred to as "that thieving giraffe" by Boston Bruins superstar Phil Esposito, in reference to Dryden's skill and height. Unbeknownst to him, his pose was exactly the same as the one struck by fellow Canadiens goaltender, Georges Vézina, 60 years prior.[citation needed]

Dryden was inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 1983, as soon as he was eligible. His sweater number 29 was retired by the Canadiens on January 29, 2007. He was inducted into the Ontario Sports Hall of Fame in 2011.[24]

Post-playing career

[edit]

Writing

[edit]

Dryden wrote one book during his hockey career: Face-Off at the Summit. It was a diary about Canada's team in the 1972 Summit Series. The book has been out of print for many years.[citation needed]

After retiring from hockey Dryden wrote several more books. The Game (1983)[8] was a commercial and critical success, and was nominated for a Governor General's Award in 1983. His next book, Home Game: Hockey and Life in Canada (1990), written with Roy MacGregor, was developed into an award-winning Canadian Broadcasting Corporation six-part documentary series for television. His fourth book was The Moved and the Shaken: The Story of One Man's Life (1993). His fifth book, In School: Our Kids, Our Teachers, Our Classrooms (1995), written with Roy MacGregor, was about Canada's educational system. Becoming Canada (2010) argued for a new definition of Canada and its unique place in the world.[citation needed]

In 2019, he published Scotty: A Hockey Life Like No Other, his biography of his Canadiens coach Scotty Bowman. Dryden says at the beginning that he 'needed to write this book,' because 'Scotty had lived a truly unique life. He has experienced almost everything in hockey, up close, for the best part of a century - and his is a life that no one else will live again. It's a life that had to be captured. And it needs to be captured now, because time is moving on.'[25]

Feeling that Bowman was 'too practical and focused' to be a natural storyteller, Dryden instead asked Bowman to think like a coach and select the 8 greatest teams of all time (but only one per dynasty) and explain what he thought about them, how we coach against them but also what was happening in his life at that time and through that process, Bowman's story would be told.[citation needed]

Commentator

[edit]
Bronze statue of an ice hockey netminder standing while leaning on a hockey stick
A statue of Ken Dryden in Saint-Laurent, Quebec featuring his signature resting position.

Dryden worked as a television hockey commentator at the 1980, 1984 and 1988 Winter Olympics. He served as a colour commentator with play-by-play man Al Michaels for ABC's coverage of the "Miracle on Ice".[23] Immediately before Mike Eruzione's game-winning goal for the US, Dryden expressed his concern that the team was "depending a little bit too much" on goaltender Jim Craig after Craig had just made "too many good saves".[citation needed]

Sports executive

[edit]

In 1997, Dryden was hired as president of the Toronto Maple Leafs by minority owner Larry Tanenbaum. Pat Quinn became head coach in 1998, and there were reports that the two men had a frosty relationship. A few months after joining the Leafs, Quinn became general manager, a move thought by some to preempt Dryden from hiring former Canadiens teammate Bob Gainey.[20]

Dryden spoke at the Open Ice Summit in 1999, to discuss improvements needed to ice hockey in Canada. He wanted delegates to accept that progress made at the lower levels and off the ice was important in achieving international results.[26] He was cautious that change would come slowly and be costly, but felt the summit was an important step in making progress.[27] He also urged for the end to persistent abuse of on-ice officials, or Canada would lose 10,000 referees each year. As a result of the summit, Hockey Canada started to educate on the importance of respect for game officials.[28]

On August 29, 2003, with the hiring of John Ferguson, Jr. as general manager, there was a major management shakeup. Majority owner Steve Stavro was bought out by the Ontario Teachers' Pension Plan and he stepped down as chairman in favour of Larry Tanenbaum. Quinn continued as head coach. Dryden's position was abolished, in favour of having both the Leafs' and Raptors' managers reporting directly to MLSE president and CEO Richard Peddie. Dryden was shuffled to the less important role of vice-chairman and given a spot on MLSE's board of directors. This was described by commentators as "sitting outside the loop", as Dryden did not report directly to Leafs ownership.[20][29] He stayed on until 2004 when he resigned to enter politics.[30]

Teaching

[edit]

In January 2012, Dryden was appointed a "Special Visitor" at his alma mater McGill University's Institute for the Study of Canada. He taught a Canadian studies course entitled "Thinking the Future to Make the Future," which focused on issues facing Canada in the future and possible solutions to them.[31]

Dryden was selected to present the Charles R. Bronfman Lecture in Canadian Studies at the University of Ottawa in 2000. His lecture, entitled Finding a Way: Legacy for the Past, Recipe for the Future, was subsequently published by the University of Ottawa Press.[32]

Political career

[edit]

Dryden joined the Liberal Party of Canada and ran for the House of Commons in the 2004 federal election.[8] He was selected by party leader and Prime Minister Paul Martin as a "star candidate" in the Toronto riding of York Centre, then considered a safe Liberal riding.[33] He had previously attended the 1987 New Democratic Party federal convention, under the leadership of Ed Broadbent.[34]

Dryden was elected by a margin of over 11,000 votes.[35] He was named to Cabinet as Minister of Social Development.[36] He made headlines on February 16, 2005, as the target of a remark by Conservative Member of Parliament Rona Ambrose who said about Dryden, "working women want to make their own choices, we don't need old white guys telling us what to do." Ambrose made the remarks after Dryden commented on a poll that analyzed child care choices by Canadian families.[37] Dryden won generally favourable reviews for his performance in Cabinet.[citation needed]

Dryden was re-elected in the 2006 federal election, while the Liberals were defeated and Paul Martin resigned the party leadership.[38] Interim party and opposition leader Bill Graham named Dryden to his shadow cabinet as health critic.[39]

Dryden's margin of victory in York Centre dwindled in the 2006 and 2008 elections.[40] In the 2011 federal election, he focused his efforts on his own re-election instead of campaigning for other candidates as he did in the past, and he received a visit from former Prime Minister Jean Chrétien. Still, Dryden lost his seat to Conservative candidate Mark Adler by nearly 6,000 votes.[33][41]

2006 leadership campaign

[edit]
Middle-aged man wearing a grey suit and white dress shirt
Ken Dryden at the Rise Up for Canada Rally in April 2011

On April 28, 2006, Dryden announced that he would run for the leadership of the Liberal Party of Canada, which would be choosing a successor to Paul Martin at a convention in Montreal on December 2, 2006.[42]

A poll[43] found that Dryden's potential pool of support exceeded that of his opponents, due mainly to his former NHL career. His fundraising fell well below that of top leadership contenders (Michael Ignatieff, Gerard Kennedy, Stéphane Dion and Bob Rae). A variety of media pundits criticized his ponderous speaking style and limited French. Supporters argued that few people were strongly opposed to him and that if he ran he could attract more support on later ballots as a consensus candidate.[citation needed]

At the convention, Dryden came in fifth place on the first ballot with 238 delegates, 4.9% of the vote. On the second ballot, he came in last place with 219 votes (4.7%) and was eliminated. He initially threw his support to Bob Rae, but after Rae was eliminated in the third ballot and released all of his delegates, Dryden endorsed Stéphane Dion, who went on to win the leadership.[citation needed]

According to Elections Canada filings, as of 2013 Dryden's campaign still owed $225,000.[44]

Personal life and death

[edit]
Middle-aged man wearing a dark blue suitcoat, black dress shirt, and silver-rimmed eyeglasses
Dryden in October 2023

Dryden and his wife Lynda had two children and four grandchildren.[45] He was a first cousin, twice removed, of Murray Murdoch, another former NHL player and a longtime coach of the Yale Bulldogs hockey team, and Andrew Dryden Blair, who played on the 1931–32 Leafs Stanley Cup winning team. His older brother, Dave, also played in the NHL and the World Hockey Association (WHA) as a goaltender from 1961 to 1980. On March 20, 1971, he played in a home game against his brother who was a backup goaltender at the time for the Buffalo Sabres.[46] The siblings would face each other eight times in total (six games in the regular season and two in the playoffs).[46] He also had a sister, Judy, who worked as a nurse.[47]

On September 5, 2025, Dryden died from cancer in Toronto at the age of 78.[8][48][49]

Career statistics

[edit]

Regular season and playoffs

[edit]
Regular season Playoffs
Season Team League GP W L T MIN GA SO GAA SV% GP W L MIN GA SO GAA SV%
1963–64 Humber Valley Packers MTHL — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — —
1964–65 Etobicoke Indians MetJHL — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — —
1966–67 Cornell University ECAC 27 26 0 1 1,646 40 4 1.46 .945 — — — — — — — —
1967–68 Cornell University ECAC 29 25 2 0 1,620 41 6 1.52 .938 — — — — — — — —
1968–69 Cornell University ECAC 27 25 2 0 1,578 47 3 1.79 .936 — — — — — — — —
1970–71 Montreal Voyageurs AHL 33 16 7 8 1,899 84 3 2.68 — — — — — — — — —
1970–71 Montreal Canadiens NHL 6 6 0 0 327 9 0 1.65 .957 20 12 8 1,221 61 0 3.00 .914
1971–72 Montreal Canadiens NHL 64 39 8 15 3,800 142 8 2.24 .930 6 2 4 360 17 0 2.83 .911
1972–73 Montreal Canadiens NHL 54 33 7 13 3,165 119 6 2.26 .926 17 12 5 1,039 50 1 2.89 .908
1974–75 Montreal Canadiens NHL 56 30 9 16 3,320 149 4 2.69 .906 11 6 5 688 29 2 2.53 .916
1975–76 Montreal Canadiens NHL 62 42 10 8 3,580 121 8 2.03 .927 13 12 1 780 25 1 1.92 .929
1976–77 Montreal Canadiens NHL 56 41 6 8 3,275 117 10 2.14 .920 14 12 2 849 22 4 1.55 .932
1977–78 Montreal Canadiens NHL 52 37 7 7 3,071 105 5 2.05 .921 15 12 3 919 29 2 1.89 .920
1978–79 Montreal Canadiens NHL 47 30 10 7 2,814 108 5 2.30 .909 16 12 4 990 41 0 2.48 .900
NHL totals 397 258 57 74 23,330 870 46 2.24 .922 112 80 32 6,846 274 10 2.40 .915

International

[edit]
Year Team Event GP W L T MIN GA SO GAA
1969 Canada WC 2 1 1 0 120 4 1 2.00
1972 Canada SS 4 2 2 0 240 19 0 4.75
Senior totals 6 3 3 0 360 23 1 3.83

"Dryden's stats". The Goaltender Home Page. Retrieved August 7, 2017.

Awards and honours

[edit]

Dryden's hockey awards and honours include:

Award Year Remark
College
All-ECAC First Team 1966–67, 1967–68, 1968–69
AHCA East All-American 1966–67, 1967–68, 1968–69
ECAC All-Tournament First Team 1967, 1968, 1969
NCAA All-Tournament First Team 1967 [50]
NCAA All-Tournament Second Team 1968, 1969 [50]
No. 1 jersey retired by the Cornell Big Red[a] February 25, 2010
National Hockey League
Conn Smythe Trophy winner 1971
Calder Memorial Trophy winner 1972
Vezina Trophy winner 1973, 1976, 1977, 1978, 1979[b]
Stanley Cup champion 1971, 1973, 1976, 1977, 1978, 1979
NHL All-Star Game participant 1972, 1975, 1976, 1977, 1978
Selected to NHL First All-Star Team 1973, 1976, 1977, 1978, 1979
Selected to NHL Second All-Star Team 1972
Named to league's list of 100 Greatest NHL Players 2017
Montreal Canadiens
No. 29 jersey retired by the franchise January 29, 2007
Miscellaneous
Inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame 1983
No. 25 on The Hockey News' list of the Top 100 NHL Players of All Time 1998
Inducted into the Ontario Sports Hall of Fame 2011
Appointed as an Officer of the Order of Canada 2012
Recipient of the Order of Hockey in Canada 2020 [4]

He received honorary doctoral degrees from several universities,[51] including:

Honorary degree University Year Remark
Honorary LLD degree University of British Columbia 1992 [52]
Honorary LLD degree York University 1996 [53]
Honorary LLD degree University of Windsor 1997 [54]
Honorary DUniv degree University of Ottawa 2000 [55]
Honorary LLD degree McMaster University 2003 [56]
Honorary DCL degree Saint Mary's University 2004 [57]
Honorary LLD degree Ryerson University 2013 [58]
Honorary DLitt degree University of Winnipeg 2013 [59]
Honorary DLitt degree McGill University 2018 [60]

Bibliography

[edit]

Notes

[edit]

References

[edit]
[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

Ken Dryden

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from Grokipedia
Kenneth Wayne Dryden (August 8, 1947 – September 5, 2025) was a Canadian , executive, , and author. Dryden achieved prominence in the National Hockey League (NHL) primarily with the , where he played from 1970 to 1979, contributing to six victories during that period. His career statistics include a record of 258 wins, 57 losses, and 74 ties in 397 regular-season games, with a goals-against average of 2.24 and a save percentage of .922, earning him five Vezina Trophies as the league's top and the as rookie of the year in 1972. Inducted into the in 1983 in his first year of eligibility, Dryden's number 29 was retired by the Canadiens in 2007. Beyond hockey, he served as president of the from 1997 to 2003 and later entered federal politics as a Liberal for York Centre from 2004 to 2011, holding cabinet positions including Minister of Social Development.

Early Life and Education

Upbringing and Family Influences

Ken Dryden was born on August 8, 1947, in , to parents Murray Dryden, a salesman who later became a philanthropist, and Margaret Dryden. The family relocated shortly after to , then a developing suburb of in the area, where Dryden spent his formative years in a middle-class emphasizing discipline and achievement. He grew up with siblings including older brother Dave Dryden, who played professionally as a in the NHL and WHA, and sister Judy, amid a shaped by their parents' values of hard work and involvement. Murray Dryden's rural roots profoundly influenced the family's ethos; born in 1911 near Domain to Scottish immigrant parents as the eldest of eight children, he labored on a 408-acre until age 17, attending school only intermittently before pursuing sales careers that honed his resilience and entrepreneurial drive. This background instilled in his children a commitment to perseverance and , evident later when Murray and co-founded the Sleeping Children Around the World charity in 1970, distributing over 700,000 sleeping bags to by the time of his death in 2004. , who passed in 1985, complemented this by fostering a supportive environment that prioritized —despite the parents themselves lacking university degrees—as a path to opportunity, a value Dryden later credited for his own academic pursuits. Dave Dryden, six years Ken's senior and born in 1941, served as a pivotal , introducing his younger brother to goaltending during backyard games and local play in ; Ken idolized Dave's dedication, emulating the position from an early age and crediting it as the spark for his hockey passion. By age seven in 1955, Ken was already competing with the Islington Hornets in the Humber Valley Hockey Association, a local league where family support and community ties reinforced the blend of athletic rigor and scholastic focus that defined his upbringing. This environment, free from undue pressure yet rich in encouragement, cultivated Dryden's balanced approach to sports and intellect, setting the foundation for his dual paths in hockey and law.

Academic Pursuits and Cornell Years

Dryden enrolled at in 1966, opting to pursue higher education rather than immediately entering professional hockey despite being drafted by the in 1964. He majored in history, reflecting an interest in intellectual and analytical pursuits alongside athletics. At , Dryden balanced rigorous academic demands with his role as for the Big Red men's team, earning recognition for scholarly achievement as a Communicators (CSC) Academic All-American. He was also active in campus organizations, including membership in the Society and serving as vice-president of the senior honor society, which selected students for leadership and service contributions. These involvements underscored his commitment to a well-rounded university experience beyond sports. Dryden graduated from Cornell in 1969 with a degree in history, having successfully integrated his studies with hockey excellence that included a 76-4-1 record, a 1.59 goals-against , and a .939 save percentage over three seasons. His academic focus during this period laid groundwork for later pursuits in law and , prioritizing long-term intellectual development over an early trajectory.

Hockey Career

Junior and Amateur Development

Dryden's early hockey involvement centered on Toronto-area amateur leagues. During the 1963–64 season, at age 16, he played goaltender for the Humber Valley Packers in the Hockey League (THL), a local amateur circuit. The following year, 1964–65, he moved to the Indians of the Metro Junior B Hockey League (MJBHL), an intermediate junior level, where he established himself as the league's premier despite limited recorded statistics. In June 1964, the 16-year-old Dryden was selected 14th overall by the in the inaugural NHL Amateur Draft but was traded shortly thereafter to the organization, which retained his rights while he pursued education. Opting for the collegiate route over major junior hockey, Dryden enrolled at in 1965 and developed rapidly in NCAA competition with the Big Red team in the (ECAC). His college tenure from 1966 to 1969 showcased exceptional performance: a cumulative 76–4–1 record, 1.59 goals-against average (GAA), and .939 save percentage across 83 games. Key seasons included 1966–67, when Dryden went 26–0–1 with a 1.48 GAA and four shutouts in 27 games, anchoring Cornell's first NCAA championship win. In 1967–68, he recorded 25–2–0, 1.52 GAA, and six shutouts over 29 appearances; the 1968–69 campaign yielded 25–2–0, 1.81 GAA, and three shutouts in 27 games. His dominance earned ECAC honors each year (1967–69), NCAA East First All-American selections (1967–69), and a spot on the 1967 NCAA Championship All-Tournament Team. This amateur phase honed Dryden's technical proficiency and poise, setting the foundation for his professional breakthrough despite forgoing traditional junior elite pathways.

Professional Tenure with Montreal Canadiens

Ken Dryden joined the Montreal Canadiens organization after being originally selected by the Boston Bruins in the third round (14th overall) of the 1964 NHL Amateur Draft, with his rights traded to Montreal shortly thereafter. Following his collegiate career at , Dryden signed with the Canadiens in May 1970 and made his NHL debut during the 1970–71 regular season, appearing in six games with a 1.65 goals-against average (GAA). He gained prominence in the subsequent playoffs, starting five games and posting a .957 save percentage en route to the victory, earning the as playoff MVP despite being a . In the 1971–72 season, Dryden established himself as the Canadiens' primary goaltender, winning the Calder Memorial Trophy as NHL Rookie of the Year and the Vezina Trophy with a league-leading 2.24 GAA in 64 games. The team secured another Stanley Cup in 1973, though Dryden opted out of the entire 1973–74 season to pursue a law degree at McGill University, allowing Rogie Vachon to handle goaltending duties. Upon returning for the 1974–75 season, Dryden resumed his dominance, capturing three consecutive Vezina Trophies from 1975–76 to 1977–78 and anchoring the Canadiens' dynasty with Stanley Cup wins in 1976, 1977, 1978, and 1979—four consecutive titles, a feat unmatched in the post-Original Six era. Over his eight NHL seasons exclusively with Montreal (397 regular-season games), Dryden compiled a 258–57–74 record, a 2.24 GAA, and a .922 save percentage, while appearing in 112 playoff games with a 2.40 GAA and six championships. Dryden announced his retirement on May 8, 1979, at age 31, citing a desire to transition to other pursuits despite his ongoing effectiveness, as evidenced by his –79 performance of 35 wins and a 2.41 GAA. His abrupt entry, selective participation, and unparalleled success underscored a career defined by precision and team synergy within the Canadiens' disciplined system under coach .

International Competitions

Dryden's first international appearance came at the 1969 IIHF World Championship in Stockholm, Sweden, where he served as backup goaltender to Wayne Stephenson for Team Canada. He played in two games, recording a 1-1-0 mark with a 2.00 goals-against average (GAA). Canada placed fourth in the tournament, behind the Soviet Union, Sweden, and Czechoslovakia. His most significant international contribution occurred during the 1972 Summit Series, an eight-game exhibition between NHL professionals representing Canada and the Soviet national team. As the backup to Tony Esposito, Dryden appeared in four games, posting a 2-2-0 record and 4.75 GAA. He started the decisive Game 8 in Moscow on September 28, 1972, where Canada trailed 5-3 entering the third period but rallied for a 6-5 victory to secure the series 4-3-1. Dryden faced 34 shots in that game, allowing just two goals after the second period while his teammates scored three unanswered goals to clinch the win. The series highlighted stylistic clashes between North American and Soviet hockey, with Canada's victory affirming NHL dominance amid intense national pressure, as an estimated 16 million Canadians watched the final game. Dryden did not participate in the inaugural due to a knee injury sustained during the 1975-76 NHL playoffs. These appearances underscored his role in elevating Canada's international profile during a period when professional players were selectively released for non-Olympic competitions.

Post-Retirement Professional Endeavors

Following his retirement from professional hockey in 1979, Dryden completed the requirements for admission to the Bar, passing the bar examinations in February 1980. He had earlier articled as a legal at the firm Osler, Hoskin & Harcourt during the , forgoing hockey to fulfill obligations for his degree from , where he earned $137 per week. This articling period, announced on September 14, 1973, underscored his prioritization of legal training amid contract disputes with the . Dryden maintained an active legal practice in Toronto for over two decades, balancing it with writing, broadcasting, and other endeavors until his entry into federal politics in 2004 as the Liberal Member of Parliament for York Centre. Specific details of his post-bar practice, such as firm partnerships or areas of specialization like corporate or commercial law, remain less documented in public records, though his McGill education and articling experience positioned him for professional legal work in the city. His legal career reflected a deliberate extension of the intellectual rigor he applied on the ice, though he transitioned away from full-time practice as political and advocacy roles intensified. Regarding business activities independent of sports management, Dryden's engagements were limited and intertwined with his broader professional profile; no major independent ventures, such as founding companies or investments outside hockey-related entities, are prominently recorded. His designation as a businessman in biographical summaries often stems from executive roles in hockey operations rather than distinct commercial enterprises.

Authorship and Literary Contributions

Dryden's literary career began with at the Summit (1973), co-authored with Mark Mulvoy, a diary chronicling Canada's team during the 1972 against the . His most influential work, The Game (1983), offers an intimate portrayal of professional hockey through the lens of the 1978–79 Montreal Canadiens' final regular-season week, blending player perspectives, team dynamics, and the sport's existential challenges. Published by Macmillan of Canada, the book has been lauded as one of the greatest sports books for its candid, reflective . Subsequent hockey-focused titles expanded his oeuvre. Home Game: Hockey and Life in Canada (1989, co-authored with Roy MacGregor), derived from a CBC-TV series, examines hockey's cultural dominance in Canadian communities, from leagues to professional ranks, arguing for its role in national cohesion amid evolving social norms. : A Life and Death on Ice (2017) investigates the death of NHL enforcer from (CTE), using autopsy findings—revealing stage 2 CTE in a player with over 700 documented hits—to critique the league's violence tolerance and urge rule reforms like reduced fighting and better protocols. Scotty: A Hockey Life Like No Other (2019) profiles legendary coach , Dryden's former Canadiens mentor, detailing Bowman's tactical innovations, such as neutral-zone traps, across nine wins with three teams. The Series: What I Remember, What It Felt Like, What It Feels Like Now (2022), marking the 50th anniversary of the 1972 , revisits the eight-game USSR- showdown, analyzing its geopolitical stakes—Canada's 4-3-1 victory amid tensions—and lasting impact on player legacies, with Dryden reflecting on his backup role and the series' 52-year evolution in hockey discourse. Beyond sports, Dryden addressed in In School (1995, co-authored with Roy MacGregor), drawing from his teaching experience to advocate for over rote methods in Canadian classrooms. Works like Becoming Canada: Our History, Our Politics, Our Future (2014) probe , critiquing fragmented and proposing civic renewal through shared narratives, while The Class: A Memoir of a Place, a Time, and Us (2023) recounts his years, intertwining personal growth with campus upheavals. Dryden's contributions, totaling over a dozen books, emphasize analytical depth over , often informed by primary interviews and archival data, influencing discussions on hockey's and 's social fabric.

Broadcasting and Analytical Roles

Following his retirement from professional hockey in 1979, Ken Dryden transitioned into broadcasting, primarily serving as a for ABC Television's coverage of Olympic hockey. He provided analysis for the men's tournaments at the in ; the in , ; and the in , . Dryden's most notable broadcasting moment came during the 1980 Olympics, where he partnered with play-by-play announcer to call the men's national team's upset victory over the in the semifinal game, famously known as the "." This 4-3 win, which Dryden analyzed alongside Michaels, preceded the U.S. team's gold medal-clinching victory against two days later on February 22, 1980. His contributions drew on his experience as a six-time champion with the , offering insights into goaltending strategies and game dynamics during these international competitions.

Sports Management Positions

In May 1997, Ken Dryden was appointed president of the by minority owner amid organizational instability following the team's playoff disappointments and internal conflicts. Dryden, returning to professional hockey after years in and authorship, aimed to instill long-term strategic vision, emphasizing player development and cultural reform over short-term wins, drawing on his as a Hall of Fame with the rival . He assumed duties shortly after, overseeing personnel decisions including the hiring of Pat Quinn as in 1998. Dryden's leadership addressed immediate crises, such as the emerging sexual abuse scandal revealed in 1997, where he supported investigations and transparency measures to protect victims and rebuild trust. On the ice, the Leafs qualified for the in the 1997–98 and 1998–99 seasons under his oversight, advancing to the Eastern Conference Finals in 1999, though the team missed the postseason in 1999–2000 amid roster transitions and injuries. Critics noted his deliberate pace in rebuilding frustrated fans and owners seeking rapid contention, leading to his replacement as by Quinn in July 1999 while retaining the presidency. Dryden continued as president until 2003, contributing to sustained executive stability before resigning in 2004 to enter federal politics as a Liberal candidate. His tenure, spanning six seasons, prioritized institutional integrity over immediate trophies but yielded mixed results, with no contention and ongoing debates over his aversion to aggressive free-agent spending. No other formal sports management positions in hockey are recorded for Dryden beyond this role.

Teaching and Academic Engagements

In the early 2010s, Dryden returned to , where he had earned his in 1973, to teach the course Making the Future. This interdisciplinary class, offered through the Institute for the Study of Canada, urged students to transcend passive analysis by devising actionable strategies for addressing Canada's prospective challenges, such as regional disparities in healthcare, , Indigenous affairs, and . The course ran for five years at McGill, emphasizing proactive engagement over retrospective study. By 2015, Dryden expanded Making the Future into a multi-campus initiative, simulcasting lectures from McGill to students at the , Ryerson University (now ), , and . Held weekly on Thursdays during the semester, the format facilitated interactive discussions among approximately 200 participants across five provinces, with Dryden aiming to scale it nationwide by Canada's 150th anniversary in 2017. In the early 2020s, Dryden collaborated on the development of McGill's FSCI 198: Climate Crisis and Climate Actions, a course that integrated his for environmental urgency into academic discourse, prompting students to explore mitigation strategies amid escalating global risks. Beyond formal courses, Dryden served as a frequent public lecturer at Canadian universities, delivering addresses on , , and societal foresight, often drawing from his diverse experiences in , , and .

Political Career

Entry into Politics and Parliamentary Service

Ken Dryden, after a distinguished in professional hockey and executive roles including vice-chairman of Maple Leaf Sports and Entertainment, entered federal in 2004 as the Liberal Party candidate for the York Centre riding in . Announcing his candidacy on May 17, 2004, Dryden described as "anybody's ultimate ," reflecting his long-held interest in and community leadership. His decision was seen as a natural progression, leveraging his public profile to address societal issues through government. Dryden won the federal election on June 28, 2004, securing a with a significant share of votes in the traditionally Liberal stronghold, defeating Conservative challenger Robert Parker and other opponents. He was sworn in as for York Centre, beginning a tenure focused on social development and policy advocacy. Dryden was re-elected in the January 23, 2006, federal election and again on October 14, 2008, though his margins narrowed amid shifting voter dynamics in the riding. His parliamentary service spanned from June 28, 2004, to May 1, 2011, totaling over six years, during which he contributed to proceedings, particularly after the Liberal Party moved to opposition in 2006. In opposition, Dryden served as Liberal critic for human resources and skills development with a focus on , environment, and , critiquing government policies on , social programs, and public welfare. He also participated in cabinet committees on domestic affairs and Aboriginal affairs during the brief Liberal period from 2004 to 2006. His work emphasized evidence-based approaches to social challenges, drawing on his prior experiences in , authorship, and sports .

Ministerial Duties and Leadership Ambitions

Dryden was appointed Minister of Social Development on July 20, 2004, by Prime Minister following a cabinet shuffle, succeeding Liza Frulla in the role. His portfolio encompassed responsibilities for , , , and family policy, aligning with the Liberal government's minority position after the June 2004 election. During his tenure, which lasted until the government's defeat on February 6, 2006, Dryden prioritized advancing a national early learning and framework as a core campaign promise of the Martin administration. A primary focus of Dryden's ministerial duties was negotiating bilateral agreements for funding with 's provinces and territories, culminating in deals signed with all 10 provinces by late 2005. These agreements allocated federal transfers of $5,000 per subsidized space annually, aiming to expand access to affordable, quality early learning programs and marking the most comprehensive federal-provincial initiative to date. Dryden defended the existing Canadian system against international critiques, such as a 2004 report ranking it poorly, while pushing for improvements through increased investment and standards. However, the program's implementation was curtailed after the Conservative victory in January 2006, with the Harper government reallocating funds to universal taxable allowances, effectively dismantling the agreements. Following Paul Martin's resignation as Liberal leader in early 2006, Dryden announced his candidacy for the party leadership on , 2006, becoming the 10th entrant in a crowded field of 11 contenders. He positioned his bid around critiquing the incoming Conservative policies and advocating for progressive social programs, drawing on his ministerial experience. Dryden's campaign faced challenges in fundraising and delegate support, leading to his withdrawal on November 24, 2006, prior to the December convention, after which he did not endorse a specific publicly. The race concluded with Stéphane Dion's victory on December 2, 2006. Dryden did not pursue further leadership ambitions, focusing instead on his parliamentary duties until losing his York Centre seat in the 2011 election.

Policy Stances, Achievements, and Critiques

Dryden's principal policy emphasis during his tenure as Minister of Social Development from December 2004 to February 2006 centered on establishing a federally supported national framework for early learning and . He prioritized bilateral negotiations with provincial governments to fund accessible, quality spaces, viewing it as essential for family support, workforce participation, and . By November 25, 2005, Dryden secured agreements with all ten provinces, committing $5 billion over five years to create new spaces and improve existing programs, marking the most extensive federal-provincial initiative to date. These accords allocated funds for provinces to expand regulated , with federal transfers tied to performance metrics like space creation and affordability, though implementation varied by jurisdiction due to provincial autonomy. Dryden defended the approach against international critiques of Canada's child care system, insisting on incremental improvements through public investment rather than market-driven solutions. In his 2006 Liberal leadership bid, he lambasted the incoming Conservative government's shift to taxable universal benefits as a retreat from structural support, arguing it failed to address supply shortages. Broader stances included advocacy for measures enhancing family well-being, informed by his pre-political work on equity issues. On , Dryden in 2008 urged halting all Canadian aid to Gaza, including humanitarian assistance, amid ongoing conflict, reflecting a hardline position on accountability for aid recipients. Key achievements encompassed the rapid negotiation of the pacts, which provinces began implementing before the 2006 federal election ousted the Liberals; advocates later credited Dryden with laying groundwork for subsequent programs like the 2021 $10-a-day initiative. As a backbench MP from 2006 to 2011, he contributed to opposition scrutiny of Conservative social policies, though his influence waned in minority parliaments where Liberals often abstained from confidence votes to prolong the government. Critiques portrayed Dryden's push as overly ambitious and fiscally expansive, with Conservative opponents favoring direct family payments over government-run spaces; post-2006, the Harper government terminated the agreements, redirecting funds to the Universal Child Care Benefit, which Dryden and allies deemed inadequate for low-income access. , then a Conservative MP, challenged Dryden's assumptions by asserting that many working women preferred staying home, highlighting ideological divides on 's societal role. His 2006 leadership campaign faltered, netting minimal delegate support before withdrawal, with detractors citing insufficient political aggression and name recognition beyond hockey. Electorally, Dryden's vulnerability peaked in 2011, when he lost York Centre to Conservative with 33% of the vote amid the Liberal collapse under . Further scrutiny arose from his defiance of limits on leadership contributions, framing individual donors' excess funds as non-violative, which underscored tensions between campaign finance rules and candidate autonomy. Observers noted Dryden's thoughtful but sometimes reserved style ill-suited to partisan combat, contributing to perceptions of underperformance in a polarized environment.

Advocacy and Controversies

Ken Dryden emerged as a prominent advocate for reducing head injuries in hockey, drawing on his experience as a Hall of Fame goaltender to critique the sport's tolerance of hits targeting players' heads. In interviews and writings, he argued that such hits, once rare accidents, had become normalized and frequent, leading to concussions with lifelong consequences like chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE). Dryden emphasized that the brain's vulnerability demands rule changes prioritizing protection over punishment, asserting that penalties alone fail to deter contact because the intent to injure is indistinguishable from incidental hits in real-time. His advocacy intensified in the mid-2010s, culminating in the 2017 publication of , a book examining the NHL's handling of concussions through cases like that of former player , whose death from brain trauma highlighted systemic delays in response. In the book and related media appearances, Dryden called for eliminating head-directed hits entirely, proposing that referees enforce a strict no-head-contact standard similar to rules in youth and women's hockey, where such plays are already curtailed. He criticized the NHL's incremental measures, such as supplemental , as insufficient, noting that between 2010 and 2017, reported concussions rose despite awareness campaigns. Dryden proposed broader reforms, including annual conferences uniting players, owners, officials, and medical experts to address head trauma prevention, a idea he first articulated in 2012. In a 2018 New York Times , he urged immediate action to "end N.H.L. head hits now," warning that inaction risked the sport's future amid growing evidence of degenerative brain diseases among retired players. His efforts extended to public forums, such as discussions in 2017 and 2018, where he advocated redefining hockey's culture to value skill over , arguing that removing head hits would enhance flow and appeal without diluting competitiveness. Despite his influence, Dryden's campaign faced resistance from NHL leadership, whom he accused of prioritizing entertainment value over player safety, though he acknowledged partial progress like rule tweaks post-2011 lockout. By 2023, he continued speaking on the issue, linking concussions to broader health advocacy and stressing that prevention must precede treatment in a where repeated sub-concussive impacts compound risks. His work contributed to heightened scrutiny, including lawsuits against the NHL settled in for $19 million to fund player research, though Dryden viewed settlements as stopgaps rather than solutions.

Disputes with NHL Leadership and Broader Implications

Dryden emerged as a prominent critic of the NHL's handling of player concussions and head trauma, arguing that the league's incremental rule adjustments failed to address the root causes of preventable brain injuries. In a 2011 open letter to Commissioner published in , he urged immediate, comprehensive action to confront the "head-injury crisis," emphasizing that awareness alone was insufficient and that the NHL must prioritize player safety over tradition. This marked an early escalation in his advocacy, positioning him against league leadership's perceived reluctance to overhaul rules on and . His criticisms intensified through writings and public speeches, including his 2017 book : A Lethal Dosing of Envy, Fear and Bad Blood, which used the posthumous diagnosis of (CTE) in former player to illustrate the long-term devastation of repeated head impacts. Dryden advocated for a blanket prohibition on all hits resulting in head contact, contending that such changes would not erode hockey's essence but would avert "accidents" framed as inevitable by purists and executives. In a 2018 New York Times essay, following the NHL's $19 million settlement in a class-action by former players alleging concealment of risks, Dryden rebuked Bettman for treating the legal resolution as vindication rather than a prompt for bolder reforms, asserting that true leadership required eliminating head hits entirely. A 2019 Toronto Sun column reiterated this, imploring Bettman to act decisively against brain injuries, as partial measures like supplemental discipline had proven inadequate in curbing incidents. These disputes underscored broader tensions between NHL governance and player welfare advocates, with Dryden attributing inaction to a culture prioritizing entertainment value and revenue—such as from fighting and high-contact play—over empirical evidence of neurological harm, including CTE cases documented in autopsies of over 100 former players by 2023. The league's response, including rule tweaks like banning specific elbowing or charging since 2011, was dismissed by Dryden as reactive and insufficient, potentially delaying accountability amid ongoing litigation and on trauma's cumulative effects. His persistence influenced public discourse, pressuring the NHL to enhance protocols, though critics like Dryden argued it perpetuated a where economic incentives—evident in broadcast deals emphasizing physicality—outweighed causal links between unchecked hits and lifelong disabilities. Posthumously, following Dryden's death on September 6, 2025, Bettman's official NHL statement lauded his on-ice achievements but omitted his advocacy on s, prompting backlash from figures like agent Allan Walsh, who accused the of disrespecting Dryden's legacy in combating CTE and pushing for safety reforms. This omission highlighted enduring rifts, implying league leadership's discomfort with narratives challenging its authority, while Dryden's work contributed to evolving standards, such as increased helmet mandates and spotters, though full elimination of head-directed aggression remains unrealized.

Personal Life

Family and Relationships

Ken Dryden married Lynda Curran, whom he met while attending , on May 9, 1970. The couple remained together for over 55 years until Dryden's death in 2025, raising a family amid his demanding careers in hockey, , and . They had two children: daughter Sarah Dryden-Peterson, a professor of education at specializing in education, and son Michael Dryden. At the time of his death, Dryden was also a grandfather to four grandchildren. Dryden maintained close family ties, including with his older brother Dave Dryden, a fellow professional who played in the NHL and WHA and predeceased him in 2022, and sister Judy. His family life emphasized stability and support, with Lynda often accompanying him during international hockey commitments, such as the 1972 .

Later Years, Health Challenges, and Death

Following his defeat in the 2011 federal election, Dryden largely withdrew from frontline politics, focusing instead on writing, , and selective advocacy on issues like education and . He authored books and contributed to discussions on and policy, while occasionally appearing at hockey-related events, including a ceremonial appearance at the on October 22, 2024. Dryden maintained a low public profile in his personal life, residing in with his wife, Lynda Curran, whom he married in 1967, and staying connected to family, including daughter Sarah Dryden-Peterson and son Michael. In his final years, Dryden faced a private health struggle with cancer, which he did not disclose publicly or to most associates, including close hockey contemporaries. The illness progressed rapidly, leading to his death on September 5, , at age 78 in . His passing was announced by the NHL, prompting tributes from the hockey community and figures like former Governor , who described Dryden as a towering Canadian contributor. Dryden's funeral was an intimate affair limited to family and close friends, reflecting his preference for privacy in his later life; it included personal touches like from Montreal's Deli. He was predeceased by his brother Dave, a fellow hockey player, and is survived by his wife, children, and sister Judy, a nurse. The honored him with a pregame at their 2025-26 home opener on October 15, 2025.

Awards and Honors

Ken Dryden received widespread recognition for his exceptional performance as a in the National Hockey League (NHL). He was awarded the in 1971 as the most valuable player of the during his season with the . He also won the in 1972 as the NHL's top . Dryden secured five Vezina Trophies, recognizing the NHL's top goaltender, in 1973, 1976, 1977, 1978, and 1979. He contributed to six championships with the Canadiens in 1971, 1973, 1976, 1977, 1978, and 1979. Selected to five NHL All-Star Games, Dryden's on-ice achievements culminated in his induction into the in 1983. Beyond hockey statistics, Dryden was honored for his broader impact on the sport and Canadian society. In 2013, he was appointed an Officer of the for contributions as a player, author, and public servant. He received the Order of Hockey in Canada in 2020, acknowledging his lifetime dedication to the game. In 2017, Dryden was named one of the .

Bibliography

Major Works

Dryden authored several non-fiction books, predominantly centered on hockey, Canadian culture, education, and memoir, drawing from his experiences as a player, politician, and observer of society. His writings emphasize introspective analysis and first-hand observation, often challenging institutional norms in sports and public life. The Game (1983) provides a detailed, behind-the-scenes chronicle of the 1978–79 Montreal Canadiens season, blending Dryden's goaltending perspective with broader reflections on professional athletics, team dynamics, and the athlete's mindset; it is widely acclaimed as a landmark in sports literature. Face-Off at the Summit (1973), co-authored with Mark Mulvoy, documents Canada's 1972 Summit Series against the Soviet Union through diary entries, capturing the geopolitical and competitive tensions of the matchup. Home Game: Hockey and Life in Canada (1990), written with Roy MacGregor, intertwines Dryden's experiences as a father coaching youth hockey with examinations of the sport's cultural significance in Canada. The Moved and the Shaken (1993) explores themes of leadership, risk, and personal reinvention, using Dryden's post-hockey career transitions as a framework. In School: Our Kids, Our Teachers, Our Classrooms (1995) recounts Dryden's year-long immersion in a Toronto high school, critiquing educational structures and advocating for reform based on direct classroom observations. Later publications include Game Change: The Life and Death of Steve Montador, and the Future of Hockey (2017), which investigates chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE) via the case of deceased NHL player Steve Montador, urging changes to combat head injuries in the sport. Scotty: A Hockey Life Like No Other (2019) is a biography of longtime Canadiens coach Scotty Bowman, detailing his strategic evolution and influence on the game. The Series: What I Remember, What It Felt Like, What It Feels Like Now (2022) revisits the 1972 Summit Series on its 50th anniversary, reflecting on its enduring national impact. The Class: A Memoir of a Place, a Time, and Us (2023) traces the lives of Dryden's 1960 Etobicoke high school classmates, probing generational change and personal trajectories in post-war Canada.

Career Statistics

NHL Regular Season and Playoffs

Dryden appeared in 397 regular-season games over eight full seasons and parts of two others with the from 1970 to 1979, compiling a record of 258 wins, 57 losses, and 74 ties. His career goals-against average stood at 2.24, accompanied by a .922 save percentage and 46 shutouts. He earned the as the NHL's top rookie for the 1971–72 season after posting a 2.25 goals-against average in 52 games. Dryden secured the , recognizing the league's top goaltender, five times: shared with in 1972–73 and outright victories in 1975–76, 1976–77, 1977–78, and 1978–79. In the playoffs, Dryden played 112 games, achieving 80 wins against 32 losses with a 2.40 goals-against average and 10 shutouts. Called up from the minors late in the 1970–71 regular season, he debuted in the postseason and backstopped the Canadiens to the , defeating the Black Hawks in seven games; he started the final six contests with a 1.65 goals-against average and earned the as playoff MVP despite limited regular-season experience. The Canadiens won five more championships during his tenure—in 1973, 1976, 1977, 1978, and 1979—establishing a dynasty anchored by Dryden's performance in high-stakes series, including a 12–2 playoff record in 1976–77 with four shutouts.
CategoryGames Played (GP)Wins-Losses-TiesShutouts (SO)Save Percentage (SV%)
Regular Season397258-57-742.2446.922
Playoffs11280-322.4010.911
These totals reflect Dryden's efficiency in an era of expansion and higher-scoring games, where his .922 regular-season save percentage ranked among the league's elite.

International Appearances

Dryden first represented Canada internationally at the 1969 IIHF World Championship in Stockholm, Sweden, appearing in two games as a 21-year-old goaltender shortly after concluding his collegiate career at Cornell University. In those outings, he compiled a 1-1 record with a 1.51 goals-against average and .942 save percentage, including a 1-0 shutout victory over the United States on March 25, 1969, and a 4-2 loss to Sweden where he allowed three goals before an empty-netter sealed the defeat. Canada finished sixth overall in the tournament, won by the Soviet Union. His most prominent international stint came during the 1972 Summit Series, an eight-game exhibition between Canada's top professional players and the Soviet national team, held from September 2 to 28, 1972. Dryden served as one of two goaltenders alongside Ed Giacomin, playing in four games with a 2-2-0 record, 4.75 goals-against average, and .838 save percentage. He started Games 3 and 4 in and (a 4-3 win and 4-3 loss, respectively), as well as Games 7 and 8 in . In the series-clinching Game 8 on September 28, Dryden made 21 saves in a tense 6-5 victory, securing Canada's 4-3-1 series triumph after trailing 1-0-1 following the first four games in . The series, marked by intense rivalry and Canada's adaptation to Soviet play, is widely regarded as a pivotal moment in hockey history for bridging North American and international styles. Dryden did not participate in subsequent major tournaments, such as the , due to injury, limiting his international exposure amid NHL commitments.

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  85. https://www.theplayerstribune.com/posts/ken-dryden-its-time-for-action
  86. https://obj.ca/ken-dryden-concussions-brain-injuries-not-death-and-taxes/
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  88. https://www.nytimes.com/2018/11/16/sports/hockey-concussions-settlement-bettman.html
  89. https://torontosun.com/sports/hockey/nhl/ken-dryden-its-high-time-nhl-commissioner-gary-bettman-acts-to-prevent-brain-injuries-in-hockey
  90. https://media.nhl.com/public/news/19136
  91. https://www.yardbarker.com/nhl/articles/top_nhl_agent_reams_gary_bettman_for_his_disrespect_of_ken_drydens_legacy/s1_17636_42702131
  92. https://lfpress.com/sports/hockey/dryden-blames-hockey-purists-for-inaction-on-concussions
  93. https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-courier-news-mar-drydencurran/111170822/
  94. https://www.nytimes.com/2025/09/09/sports/hockey/ken-dryden-dead.html
  95. https://macleans.ca/news/canada/inside-ken-drydens-hockey-rink-citizenship-ceremony/
  96. https://www.npr.org/2025/09/06/nx-s1-5532576/ken-dryden-hockey-nhl-montreal-canadiens-obituary
  97. https://www.nhl.com/news/hockey-world-recalls-ken-dryden-as-montreal-canadiens-dynasty-pillar
  98. https://www.cbc.ca/sports/hockey/nhl/ken-dryden-obit-1.7627028
  99. https://www.tvo.org/article/a-quiet-goodbye-to-ken-dryden
  100. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cJyWf_JTjSI
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  102. https://www.gg.ca/en/honours/recipients/146-11315
  103. https://www.hockeycanada.ca/en-ca/corporate/awards/order-hockey-canada/honourees/ken-dryden
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  111. https://www.nhl.com/news/ken-dryden-on-1st-round-of-playoffs-its-magic
  112. https://records.nhl.com/records/playoff-goaltender-records/shutouts/most-shutouts-one-season-playoff
  113. https://records.nhl.com/records/goaltender-records/save-percentage-players-who-debuted-in-1955-56-or-later/highest-save-percentage-career
  114. https://www.quanthockey.com/hockey-stats/en/profile.php?player=1499
  115. https://www.facebook.com/groups/858149780995259/posts/3690654157744793/
  116. http://www.chidlovski.com/personal/1972/yroster/statsca.htm
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