The Ontario Hockey League is saddened by news of the loss of former Memorial Cup champion and NHL alumnus Bill MacMillan, who has passed away at the age of 80.
Originally from Charlottetown, PEI, MacMillan was part of a highly successful St. Michael’s Majors team in the early 60’s, hoisting the Memorial Cup as national champions in 1961 on a team that also included names like Rod Seiling and goaltender Dave Draper. He played parts of three seasons with St. Michael’s from 1959-62 before playing the 1962-63 season as a member of the Toronto Neil McNeil Maroons.
MacMillan went on to represent Canada on the international stage several times and played a total of 446 games in the NHL with Toronto, Atlanta and the New York Islanders between 1970-77. He was a member of the original Atlanta Flames roster, being chosen by them in the Expansion Draft in 1972.
Following his playing career, MacMillan coached the New York Islanders and Colorado Rockies before becoming the first head coach in New Jersey Devils history in 1982. He’d also coach in the U SPORTS ranks with the University of Prince Edward Island, helping guide the men’s hockey team to an AUS title in 1991.
The OHL sends thoughts and condolences to Bill’s family and friends.
The New York Islanders are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of former player and Assistant Coach from the 1980 Cup team, Bill MacMillan. We extend our thoughts and prayers to the entire MacMillan family and friends. pic.twitter.com/gchV3aDb2s
— New York Islanders (@NYIslanders) July 16, 2023
