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Rangers icon Rod Gilbert dies at 80

Melchior DiGiacomo / Getty Images Sport / Getty

New York Rangers icon Rod Gilbert has died at the age of 80, the team announced Sunday.

"I am deeply saddened by the passing of Rod Gilbert - one of the greatest Rangers to ever play for our organization and one of the greatest ambassadors the game of hockey has ever had," said Rangers owner James Dolan.

Gilbert, nicknamed "Mr. Ranger," was one of the most prolific wingers of his era. He's New York's all-time leader in goals (406) and points (1,021). Gilbert suited up on Broadway from 1960-1978 and was inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 1982.

His No. 7 was raised to the Madison Square Garden rafters in 1979. Gilbert was the first player in franchise history to have his number retired.

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