Bob Goodenow, the former head of the NHL Players' Association, has died. He was 72.

The union announced Goodenow's death Saturday. A spokesman for the NHLPA said the organization learned that Goodenow had died from his wife, but he did not know the cause of death.

"Bob was an exceptionally influential leader whose unwavering commitment to the players helped shape the modern era of the NHLPA," the players' association said in a statement. "Bob quickly put his stamp on the organization by elevating the level of representation provided by the NHLPA's staff, tirelessly working to educate the players, strengthening the membership and building trust in the office's work on behalf of the players."

The NHLPA is deeply saddened to learn of the sudden passing of former NHLPA Executive Director Bo

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