Former NHLer Ron Duguay dead at 69 following battle with cancer

A native of Sudbury and NHL first-round pick in 1977, Ron Duguay played in 860 NHL games with four teams in a prolific career.

Published Oct 22, 2026  •  2 minute read

Ron Duguay. SunMediaArchive

See more Toronto Sun on Google — save as a Preferred Source

Article content

Following a hard-fought battle with cancer, Ron Duguay has passed away at the age of 69.

Article content

Article content

Duguay’s girlfriend, Sarah Palin, announced the death of the former National Hockey League forward on X on Thursday morning.

“It’s with a shattered heart, but also deep peace knowing Ron is with Jesus now,” Palin said in the social media post. “He fought so hard. Love never ends.”

Article content

Article content

Duguay one of Rangers’ most popular players

A native of Sudbury, Ont., Duguay was drafted in the first round of the 1977 NHL draft by the New York Rangers, 13th overall, and went on to have a prolific career with the Rangers, Detroit Red Wings, Pittsburgh Penguins and Los Angeles Kings.

In 860 games, Duguay scored 274 goals and recorded 346 assists following a four-year junior career with Sudbury of what was then known as the Ontario Hockey Association.

The Rangers, in Toronto to play the Maple Leafs on Thursday night at Scotiabank Arena, also posted to X.

Duguay became known not only for his ability to score but also for his flamboyant style and flowing locks, which helped set him apart in the days that helmets were not mandatory in the NHL.

Article content

During two stints with the Rangers, Duguay became one of the team’s most popular players, both on and off the ice.

“The New York Rangers organization mourns the loss of Ron Duguay one of the most popular players in franchise history,” the Rangers said. “Ron’s signature skating style — with his hair flowing as he moved down the ice — captivated The Garden Faithful and his skill, tenacity and charisma earned him the admiration of all New Yorkers.

“We join the hockey community in sending our condolences to Ron’s friends, family and loved ones during this difficult time.”

Ron Duguay, left, speaks with Sudbury Wolves captain Blake Clayton after taking part in a ceremonial puck drop prior to an OHL game at Sudbury Community Arena in Sudbury, Ont. on Friday, Oct. 2, 2026. (Ben Leeson/The Sudbury Star/Postmedia Network)

Final season with Kings was first with Gretzky

Duguay’s final season in the NHL was in 1988-89 with the Kings, which happened to be Wayne Gretzky’s first year in Southern California following a trade from the Edmonton Oilers.

Duguay went on to play minor pro for several years before hanging up his skates in 2009.

A celebration of life for Duguay, who is survived by three children, will be announced at a later date.

[email protected]

X: @koshtorontosun

Article content