Mel Bridgman, the first overall pick in the 1975 NHL draft by the Philadelphia Flyers, has died at the age of 70. The NHL Alumni Association announced his death on Saturday, with the cause not disclosed. Bridgman also served as the inaugural general manager of the Ottawa Senators.
Mel Bridgman, a rugged forward known for his tenure with several NHL teams, passed away at 70. Born in Trenton, Ont., he was selected first overall by the Philadelphia Flyers in the 1975 NHL draft and spent his initial six-plus seasons there.
In the 1981-82 season, Bridgman was traded to the Calgary Flames, where he achieved a career-high of 33 goals and 54 assists over 72 games. He later joined the New Jersey Devils in 1983-84, playing three-plus years before moving to the Detroit Red Wings in 1986-87. Bridgman concluded his playing career with the Vancouver Canucks in the 1988-89 season.
Over 977 regular-season games, Bridgman amassed 701 points, including 252 goals and 449 assists. Beyond his on-ice contributions, he transitioned to management, becoming the first general manager of the expansion Ottawa Senators in 1991 and holding the role until 1993.
The announcement from the NHL Alumni Association highlighted Bridgman's impact on the league, though details on his passing remain private.