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Two-Time Stanley Cup Champion Jean Potvin Passes Away

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New York Islanders, Jean Potvin

On Tuesday night, the New York Islanders announced the passing of two-time Stanley Cup champion, defenseman Jean Potvin. He was just 72.

The New York Islanders shared the words of general manager Lou Lamoriello on the passing of Jean Potvin.

“Our thoughts and prayers go out to the entire Potvin family,” New York Islanders general manager Lou Lamoriello said. “Jean was a leader on the ice, helping the organization win two Stanley Cup Championships. He made his home on the island and was always such a friendly face in the community.”

“We send our sincere condolences to all those who grieve his loss.”

New York Islanders head coach Barry Trotz and captain Anders Lee spoke on the loss of Jean following the game on Tuesday.

“I would like to send my condolences to the Potvin family. I just heard that John passed away,” New York Islanders head coach Barry Trotz said to start off his postgame press conference. “Obviously a big part of the Islanders family.”

Lee added, “Guys like him, you know, they put a lot of pride into the jersey that they wore and established a lot what it means to be an Islander.”

Jean was the older brother of Denis Potvin, whose no. 5 hangs in the rafters of UBS Arena. Denis served as the captain of the New York Islanders from 1979-1987, winning four straight Stanley Cups with the “C” on his jersey.

Jean joined the Islanders during the 1972-73 season and played five seasons on Long Island before he was dealt to the Cleveland Barons during the 1977-78 season, the year before the New York Islanders won their first-ever Stanley Cup.

Jean was back with his brother before the start of the 1979-80 season, the first season that Denis took over as the captain of the Islanders. Jean was part of two Stanley Cup victories before retiring from the NHL in 1981 after an 11-year NHL career.

In 613 career games, Jean Potvin scored 63 goals and recorded 224 assists. May he rest in peace.

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