The hockey world is mourning the loss of Greg Millen, a former NHL goaltender and long-time television analyst, who passed away at the age of 67. Millen died at his Toronto home on the evening of Saturday, April 6, 2025. The news was confirmed by Sportsnet, where Millen had been a familiar voice and face in Canadian hockey broadcasting for over two decades. While the cause of death was not immediately disclosed, the announcement triggered an outpouring of tributes from fans, players, and colleagues across the hockey community.
A Stalwart in the Crease
Born on June 25, 1957, in Toronto, Ontario, Greg Millen’s journey through professional hockey began in earnest when he was drafted 102nd overall by the Pittsburgh Penguins in 1977. A skilled and steady goaltender, Millen played 14 seasons in the National Hockey League (NHL), suiting up for the Pittsburgh Penguins, Hartford Whalers, St. Louis Blues, Quebec Nordiques, and Chicago Blackhawks.
Throughout his career, Millen appeared in 604 NHL games, posting 214 wins, 230 losses, and 82 ties. He was known for his resilience and work ethic in net, attributes that earned him the respect of teammates and opponents alike. Millen’s best season came in 1981–82 with the Whalers, when he recorded 25 wins and solidified his reputation as a reliable starter. His playoff performances, particularly with the Blues, were marked by poise under pressure and a calm demeanor that belied the intensity of the game.
A New Chapter Behind the Microphone
Upon hanging up his pads in 1992, Millen embarked on a successful broadcasting career that would span more than three decades. He began with TSN, where his articulate analysis and deep understanding of the game quickly made him a viewer favorite. In 1998, he joined Sportsnet, where he became an integral part of hockey coverage across Canada.
Millen worked as a color commentator and analyst, frequently appearing alongside play-by-play announcer John Bartlett and others, offering insight during Toronto Maple Leafs regional broadcasts and national coverage. His commentary was marked by clarity, enthusiasm, and an ability to break down complex plays for viewers at home. In addition to Sportsnet, Millen contributed to Hockey Night in Canada and served as a color commentator for the NHL on Fox in the United States during the mid-90s.
What set Millen apart in the broadcast booth was his authenticity. He spoke with the passion of a fan but the precision of a former player, creating a trusted voice in Canadian sports media. Whether explaining goalie techniques or narrating last-minute plays, Millen remained both informative and engaging.
Also Read: Houston’s Title Hopes Crumble in Final Seconds of NCAA Championship
Tributes from the Hockey World
Following the announcement of Millen’s passing, tributes poured in from across the NHL community. Former teammates, broadcasters, and fans shared stories of his kindness, professionalism, and commitment to the sport.
Sportsnet issued a heartfelt statement, calling Millen “a valued member of our broadcast family and a dear friend to so many.” The network praised his legacy as a player, analyst, and mentor, noting how his presence elevated every broadcast. NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman also acknowledged Millen’s contributions, stating, “Greg brought knowledge, heart, and integrity to everything he did. His voice was one that fans trusted and respected.”
Fans flooded social media with condolences, memories, and clips of Millen’s most memorable on-air moments. Many noted how his commentary helped them understand and appreciate the game on a deeper level.
A Lasting Legacy
Greg Millen’s legacy is one of passion—for hockey, for storytelling, and for life. As a player, he demonstrated grit and grace under fire. As a broadcaster, he made the game accessible and enjoyable for millions. His voice became a fixture in living rooms across the country, and his presence at the rink felt like that of an old friend.
Millen’s death leaves a void not only in the broadcast booth but in the broader hockey family. He will be remembered for his contributions on and off the ice, and for the warmth, wisdom, and wit he brought to every role he held.
Final Thoughts
While Greg Millen may be gone, his influence endures in the echoes of the arenas where he once played, in the broadcasts he enriched, and in the hearts of fans who listened to his every word. He was more than just a player or commentator—he was a cherished storyteller of the game he loved.
Greg Millen is survived by his family, to whom the entire hockey world extends its deepest sympathies.
