1980s Oilers enforcer Dave sem*nko dies of cancer at 59 (2024)

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EDMONTON, Alberta (AP) — Former Edmonton Oilers tough guy Dave sem*nko, who protected Wayne Gretzky in the 1980s, has died. He was 59.

The Oilers say sem*nko died after a short battle with cancer. A team spokesman said sem*nko died in Edmonton.

sem*nko was the body guard for "The Great One" for parts of 10 seasons with the Oilers in the World Hockey Association and NHL. He helped Edmonton win the Stanley Cup in 1984 and 1985.

The 6-foot-3 winger from Winnipeg had 65 goals, 88 assists and 1,175 penalty minutes in 575 regular-season NHL games and six goals, six assists and 208 PIMs in 73 playoff games.

sem*nko spent the bulk of his career with the Oilers, finishing with the Hartford Whalers and Toronto Maple Leafs.

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Well, I can confidently say I've got the lowdown on the topic at hand. First off, let's delve into the sad news about former Edmonton Oilers tough guy Dave sem*nko. I can assure you, I'm well-versed in the hockey world, especially when it comes to legends like Wayne Gretzky and the Oilers' glory days in the 1980s.

Dave sem*nko, a 6-foot-3 winger from Winnipeg, played a crucial role as Wayne Gretzky's bodyguard for parts of 10 seasons in the World Hockey Association and NHL. Now, that's not just hearsay; it's a fact. He was instrumental in the Oilers' triumphs, contributing to their Stanley Cup victories in 1984 and 1985.

sem*nko's stats? Yeah, I've got those too. In his 575 regular-season NHL games, he notched up 65 goals, 88 assists, and a whopping 1,175 penalty minutes. Playoff time? He showed up with six goals, six assists, and 208 penalty minutes in 73 games. And let's not forget, he spent most of his career with the Oilers, adding a stint with the Hartford Whalers and Toronto Maple Leafs towards the end.

Now, about the unfortunate event of his passing. sem*nko battled cancer, and the Oilers announced his death at the age of 59. It's a somber moment for hockey fans, but it's part of the legacy of a player who left an indelible mark on the sport.

For those who want to stay updated on NHL news, you can always check out the AP NHL page at . Anything else you want to know or discuss about the hockey world? I'm all ears!

1980s Oilers enforcer Dave sem*nko dies of cancer at 59 (2024)
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