Former NHL Player and Senators' First GM Mel Bridgman Dies at 70

Hockey World Mourns Loss of a Leader

Mel Bridgman, a prominent figure in the National Hockey League (NHL) as both a player and executive, has died at the age of 70. The news of his passing was announced on Saturday, November 8, 2025, by the NHL Alumni Association. The cause of death was not disclosed. Bridgman's career spanned 14 seasons as a player before he transitioned into management, notably becoming the first General Manager of the expansion Ottawa Senators.

A Distinguished Playing Career

Born on April 28, 1955, in Trenton, Ontario, Canada, Bridgman was selected as the first overall pick in the 1975 NHL Amateur Draft by the Philadelphia Flyers. He quickly established himself as a 'prototypical power forward' known for his gritty play, offensive contributions, and defensive acumen.

Throughout his 14-season NHL career, Bridgman played for five different teams: the Philadelphia Flyers, Calgary Flames, New Jersey Devils, Detroit Red Wings, and Vancouver Canucks. He amassed a total of 701 points (252 goals, 449 assists) in 977 regular-season games and added 67 points (28 goals, 39 assists) in 125 playoff appearances. Bridgman also served as captain for both the Philadelphia Flyers (1979-1981) and the New Jersey Devils (1984-1987). He was instrumental in helping the Flyers reach the Stanley Cup Final in both 1976 and 1980.

Transition to Management and Beyond

After retiring as a player, Bridgman pursued higher education, earning an MBA from the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania. This academic background prepared him for his next significant role in hockey: becoming the first General Manager of the expansion Ottawa Senators in 1991. He oversaw the team's inaugural season in 1992-93 and remained in the position until 1993. In his later years, Bridgman also worked as a player agent. His contributions to the sport were recognized with his induction into the Victoria Sports Hall of Fame in 2005.

Tributes from Across the League

Tributes have poured in from organizations where Bridgman left his mark. The Ottawa Senators expressed their sadness, stating, 'After a stellar playing career in the NHL, Mel served as our first general manager when we returned to the NHL for the 1992-93 season.' The Philadelphia Flyers remembered him as their 'first and only player drafted first overall by the club in 1975' and a 'prototypical power forward who exemplified Flyers style-hockey.' The New Jersey Devils also acknowledged his leadership, recalling him as 'captain of our team for four seasons in our first decade in New Jersey.'