Former Rangers defenseman Jim Neilson died at the age of 79, the team announced Friday.
Neilson, whose nickname “Chief” reflected his Indigenous heritage, played 12 seasons with the Rangers starting in 1962 at the age of 21 and 16 overall in the NHL with the California Golden Seals and Cleveland Barons. He was a regular contender for the Norris Trophy, finishing fourth in 1967-68. His best statistical season on Broadway came in 1968-69 when he tallied 10 goals and 34 assists (44 points). Neilson, who was raised partly in a Saskatchewan orphanage, helped the Rangers reach the Stanley Cup final for the first time since 1950 in the 1971-72 season. They lost to the Bruins in six games.
“The Rangers mourn the passing of Jim Neilson. The ultimate defensive defenseman, Jim’s quiet demeanor & selfless nature belied the integral role he played on some of the best teams in #NYR history,” the team said in a statement. “Our thoughts are with Jim’s family, friends & the countless people he influenced.”
Neilson scored 368 points (69 goals, 299 assists) in 1,024 NHL games.