Former Oiler Dave Semenko dies at age 59

The Edmonton Oilers have announced that team legend Dave Semenko died "after a short, but courageous battle with cancer."

From the team:

Dave will be remembered as a fierce competitor, loyal teammate, fan favourite and dear friend to so many. His legendary toughness on the ice is surpassed only by his kindness and caring for others, and his equally legendary wit and sense of humour.

Our hearts go out to Dave's family and many friends.

Once an Oiler, Always an Oiler

Semenko appeared in 575 NHL games for the Oilers back in the 1980s, registering 65 goals, 88 assists, and a whopping 1,175 minutes in penalties while protecting Edmonton's crop of superstar talent and winning two Stanley Cups.

He'll also be remembered for making WHA history:

He was 59 years old at the time of his death.