Ken Dryden, the former NHL goaltender and celebrated author, passed away on September 5 at the age of 78. Dryden is best known for his remarkable career with the Montreal Canadiens, where he won six Stanley Cups and earned five Vezina trophies as the league's top goaltender during the 1970s.

Every five years, Al Michaels recalls his iconic call during the 1980 Winter Olympics, when the U.S. hockey team defeated the Soviet Union in what is now known as the "Miracle on Ice." This year, Michaels shared a poignant story about Dryden, who was his broadcast partner during that historic game.

In February 1980, Dryden was preparing to take the bar exam, which coincided with the Olympics. After broadcasting the game, he drove three hours from Lake Placid to Ottawa, took the exam, and returned to commentate on the pivotal match. This dedication exemplified Dryden's multifaceted life, balancing sports and law.

Prime Minister Mark Carney remarked on Dryden's impact, stating, "Ken Dryden was big Canada," and noted that Dryden inspired him to pursue goaltending, despite never mastering Dryden's iconic pose. Dryden's resting stance has been immortalized in statues, symbolizing his unique presence in the sport.

Dryden's influence extended beyond the rink. After retiring, he authored "The Game," widely regarded as one of the best sports books ever written. The book transcended sports, offering cultural insights and reflections on his experiences. Fans flocked to the Montreal Forum in the 1970s to witness Dryden and the Canadiens, while he observed and chronicled the game and its impact on society.

In addition to his athletic achievements, Dryden served in public office, including a role as Ontario's youth commissioner. He immersed himself in the community, living with a middle-class family to understand their challenges. His novel, "The Moved and the Shaken," highlighted the importance of recognizing the lives of ordinary people in public policy and journalism.

Dryden's final book, "The Class," reflected on his high school classmates, showcasing his ability to connect with people and understand their stories. His legacy as a player, thinker, and public servant remains significant in Canadian culture and beyond.