The entire NHL community is reeling from the heartbreaking news of Greg Millen’s untimely death. He was far from an ordinary broadcaster; he held a special place in the hearts of many within the hockey community. For numerous individuals, this period is particularly challenging, especially for those who had a close connection with him.

Individuals such as Rick Ball, who spent considerable time in the commentary booth alongside him, are evidently impacted by his loss. Ball and Millen maintained a deep-rooted professional connection alongside a strong personal bond. They frequently collaborated on national NHL broadcasts, especially for Hockey Night in Canada and Sportsnet. Their connection was built on more than just professional admiration; it was grounded in authentic friendship.

In an effort to address the gap, Darren Pang, a fellow broadcaster, shared a poignant moment. Pang expressed on X, “The terrible news of Greg Millen’s passing has been stunning and difficult. Rick Ball was his partner and friend for many years & this hits hard. I tried to pull a ‘Millsy’ in the booth, and poke hole in cup…not quite as good at it as Greg! Just wait until I shoe check him!”

Pang conveyed the profound shock and difficulty surrounding the news about Greg Millen, emphasizing its impact not only on himself but particularly on Rick Ball, Millen’s longtime broadcast partner and dear friend. His words convey a profound sense of unity and mourning, highlighting the close bonds within the hockey broadcasting community.

Additionally, he recounted a lighthearted moment from a broadcast where he punctured a hole in a cup, a move that seemed to be one of Millen’s trademark behind-the-scenes antics. This is a playful and spirited moment that only those familiar with Millen would truly understand. Although Pang struggled to replicate it accurately, this remains a hallmark of how the hockey community fosters connections among its members. So how impressive was Millen’s career?

Greg Millen will stay alive in the hockey community’s heart

Greg Millen, a former NHL goaltender and respected hockey broadcaster, passed away on April 7, 2025, at the age of 67. Picked by the Pittsburgh Penguins in 1977, Millen had a notable 14-season tenure in the NHL, representing teams such as the Penguins, Hartford Whalers, St. Louis Blues, Quebec Nordiques, Chicago Blackhawks, and Detroit Red Wings.

After hanging up his skates in 1992, he made a smooth shift into the world of broadcasting, emerging as a recognizable voice on “Hockey Night in Canada” and collaborating with Sportsnet. Throughout his extensive broadcasting career spanning three decades, Millen reported on a multitude of significant events, such as 12 Stanley Cup Finals, three Olympic Games, and two World Cup of Hockey tournaments.

In the wake of his passing, Sportsnet announcer David Amber remarked, “Greg loved life, loved his family and loved hockey. And we loved him. Out of respect for Greg’s family, his fans, his friends and colleagues, tonight Sportsnet will not be producing a Flames telecast. We will instead be showing the San Jose Sharks broadcast of tonight’s game. Rest in peace, Greg.” Millen was truly admirable throughout his career, either as a player or a broadcaster. His perceptive analysis and profound grasp of the game won him the admiration of fans and peers, creating a lasting impact on the hockey community.