Eddie Johnston, a name synonymous with the world of professional hockey, embarked on his career as a goaltender in the National Hockey League (NHL) during the early 1960s. Born on November 24, 1935, in Montreal, Quebec, Johnston's journey in hockey began in the minor leagues before he made his NHL debut with the Boston Bruins. His tenure with the Bruins was marked by his role as a reliable goaltender, where he played a crucial part in the team's defensive lineup.

Johnston's career with the Bruins spanned over a decade, during which he became known for his durability and consistency. One of the most remarkable aspects of his career was during the 1963-64 season when he played every minute of all 70 games, a feat that remains unmatched in the modern era of the NHL. This endurance and reliability in the net earned him respect and admiration from teammates and opponents alike.

In 1970, Johnston was part of the Bruins team that captured the Stanley Cup, a crowning achievement in his playing career. His performance during the playoffs was instrumental in the Bruins' success, and he shared goaltending duties with Gerry Cheevers, forming a formidable duo that backstopped the team to victory. The Bruins repeated their Stanley Cup triumph in 1972, with Johnston again playing a vital role in the team's success.

After his time with the Bruins, Johnston was traded to the Toronto Maple Leafs in 1973. His stint with the Maple Leafs was brief, and he subsequently moved to the St. Louis Blues, where he continued to demonstrate his goaltending skills. Johnston's playing career concluded with the Chicago Blackhawks, where he played his final NHL games before retiring as a player.

Transitioning from player to coach and executive, Johnston's involvement in hockey extended beyond his on-ice performances. He took on the role of head coach for the Chicago Blackhawks shortly after retiring as a player. His coaching career also included a significant period with the Pittsburgh Penguins, where he served as both head coach and general manager. During his time with the Penguins, Johnston was instrumental in building a competitive team, laying the groundwork for the franchise's future successes.

Johnston's tenure with the Penguins was marked by his ability to identify and nurture talent, contributing to the development of a team that would eventually become a powerhouse in the NHL. His leadership and strategic acumen were evident as he navigated the challenges of managing a professional hockey team, balancing the demands of coaching with the responsibilities of a general manager.

Throughout his career, Eddie Johnston was known for his unwavering dedication to the sport of hockey.

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