Former NHL player and general manager of the Ottawa Senators, Mel Bridgman, has passed away at the age of 70. The NHL Alumni Association confirmed his death on Saturday, with the cause of death remaining undisclosed.

Bridgman was a notable figure in the world of hockey, renowned for his impressive performance both on the ice and in management roles. He was selected first overall in the 1975 NHL Draft by the Philadelphia Flyers, marking the beginning of his professional career in the league. During his time with the Flyers, which spanned over six seasons, Bridgman established himself as a formidable player.

In the 1974-75 season, before joining the NHL, Bridgman showcased remarkable talent while playing for the Victoria Cougars in the Western Canada Hockey League (WCHL), now recognized as the Western Hockey League (WHL). He recorded an astounding 157 points in just 66 games, demonstrating his scoring ability and overall contribution to the team.

After his tenure with the Flyers, Bridgman was traded to the Calgary Flames during the 1981-82 season. It was with the Flames that he reached a career milestone, scoring a personal best of 33 goals and 54 assists across 72 games that season. Bridgman continued to make an impact in the NHL when he joined the New Jersey Devils for three-plus seasons starting in 1983-84, followed by a trade to the Detroit Red Wings in the 1986-87 season. He concluded his player career with the Vancouver Canucks during the 1988-89 season.

Throughout his NHL career, Mel Bridgman amassed a total of 701 points, including 252 goals and 449 assists, across 977 regular-season games. His contributions to the sport extended beyond his playing career when, in 1991, he was appointed as the first general manager of the NHL expansion team, the Ottawa Senators. He held this position until 1993, playing a significant role in the team's early development.

Bridgman's legacy in hockey is characterized by his on-ice performance as a skilled player and his vision as a general manager. His passing marks a significant loss in the hockey community, as reflected in the heartwarming tributes from fans and peers alike, acknowledging his contributions to the sport and the many lives he touched throughout his career.