Canadiens legend Guy Lafleur dies at 70

Montreal Canadiens icon Guy Lafleur died at the age of 70, his family announced Friday.

The cause of death was not immediately made known. Canadiens President Geoff Molson released the following statement Friday:

"We are deeply saddened to learn of the death of Guy Lafleur," he said. "All members of the Canadiens organization are devastated by his passing. Guy Lafleur had an exceptional career and always remained simple, accessible, and close to the Habs and hockey fans in Quebec, Canada, and around the world.

"Throughout his career, he allowed us to experience great moments of collective pride. He was one of the greatest players in our organization while becoming an extraordinary ambassador for our sport."

NHL commissioner Gary Bettman also unveiled a touching statement:

"You didn’t need to see Guy Lafleur’s name and number on his sweater when 'The Flower' had the puck on his stick," Bettman said.

"As distinctively stylish as he was remarkably talented, Lafleur cut a dashing and unmistakable figure whenever he blazed down the ice of the Montreal Forum, his long blond locks flowing in his wake as he prepared to rifle another puck past a helpless goaltender - or set up a linemate for a goal."

The Habs selected Lafleur first overall in the 1971 draft following a standout junior career in which he racked up a ridiculous 233 goals and 379 points in 118 games during two seasons with the QMJHL's Quebec Remparts.

Lafleur soon became a star, helping lead the Canadiens to five Stanley Cups in the 1970s, including four consecutive championships from 1976-79. He won three straight Art Ross Trophies, three consecutive Ted Lindsay Awards (then-Lester B. Pearson), back-to-back Hart Trophies, and a Conn Smythe Award during that span. He also scored a league-leading 60 goals in 1977-78, though the Maurice "Rocket" Richard Trophy hadn't been created yet.

"The Flower" is Montreal's all-time assists and points leader with 728 and 1,246, respectively. He also ranks second in career goals in club history behind Richard.

Lafleur spent the last three seasons of his career with the New York Rangers and Quebec Nordiques. He ranks 29th on the NHL's all-time points list with 1,353 and 40th on the all-time postseason points list with 134 in 128 games.

The Thurso, Quebec, native also represented Canada on the international stage multiple times, most notably helping lead the red and white to victory at the first-ever Canada Cup in 1976. He recorded six points in seven games during the tournament.

The Hockey Hall of Fame inducted LaFleur in 1988. The Canadiens retired his No. 10 in 1985.