Former Toronto Maple Leafs forward and AHL record holder passes away

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Cooper Godin
June 3, 2023 (2:53 PM)

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Some sad news to report on in the hockey world this weekend as it's being reported that former Toronto Maple Leafs forward and AHL record holder Willie Marshall passed away on Friday at the age of 91.

Marshall is one of the greatest players that North American hockey has ever seen, despite only playing 33 games in the National Hockey League, all with the Toronto Maple Leafs over several seasons between 1952 and 1959.

During his time in the American Hockey League, which lasted 20 seasons, Marshall established himself as one of the top players, consistently leading the league in goals and points. He won the Calder Cup in 1955 with the Pittsburgh Hornets as well as in 1958 and 1959 with the Hershey Bears.

Marshall retired from hockey in 1972, but still holds the all-time American Hockey League record for most goals (523), points (1,375), assists (852) and games played (1,205). In 2004, the league unveiled the 'Willie Marshall Award', which is given annually to the AHL's top goal scorer. Two years later, he was inducted into the AHL Hall of Fame.

"At a time when there were only six teams in the National Hockey League, Willie Marshall was one of the greatest players not just in the AHL but in the entire sport of hockey." said AHL President and Chief Executive Officer Scott Howson. "His contributions helped shape the AHL's tradition of excellence that continues to this day. But more importantly, Willie was a devoted family man of character and faith; our deepest condolences go out to his son Will; his daughters Ann, Jane and Joanne; and his entire family."

Our thoughts are with the Marshall family at this difficult time.

Source: AHL.com

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