Former NHL star J.P. Parisé, who rose to notoriety as a member of Team Canada at the 1972 Summit Series, has died after a year-long battle with lung cancer at the age of 73.

Parisé, who played for Boston, Minnesota, Toronto, Cleveland and the New York Islanders, but best remembered for his time with the North Stars, surprised many when named to the roster for the 1972 Summit Series, but proved to be an integral part of Team Canada’s success, playing alongside Phil Esposito. It was his ejection from Game 8 in Moscow, after threatening to attack referee Josef Kompalla, that helped stop a series of bad calls against Canada, opening the game up to Canada’s thrilling comeback to win the series. However, due to eligibility rules in the 1970’s, this was Parisé’s only time playing for Canada, and the only time he held the IHLC.

Parisé was also a two-time NHL All-Star, and the father of current Minnesota star (and Team USA mainstay) Zach Parise. Our condolences go out to the Parise family, as well as the extended hockey community on both sides of the border, following the tragic loss of this beloved player.

Photo Credit: The New York Times – IIHF – HHOF – IOC