Philadelphia Flyers Issue a Statement on a Tragic Passing Within The Organization
Denik Sport recently shared the sad news of the passing of Roman Čechmánek, a former NHL goaltender known for his time with the Philadelphia Flyers. At 52, Čechmánek's hockey journey included an impressive 212 NHL games, starting when he was drafted in the sixth round (171st overall) during the 2000 NHL Draft at the age of 29. With seven years of professional hockey experience in Czechia, his transition to the NHL was seamless.
Making his NHL debut on October 17th, Čechmánek had a stellar inaugural season with the Flyers, playing 59 games and securing a remarkable 35-15-6 record with a .921 save percentage. Despite missing the rookie age criteria, his save percentage would have ranked second among modern-era Flyers goalies, just behind Doug Favell's .931 in the 1967-68 season. This outstanding performance earned him a second-place finish in Vezina voting, narrowly losing to Dominik Ha�ek.
Consistency defined Čechmánek's sophomore season, maintaining a .921 save percentage in 46 games with a 24-13-6 record. His career-best came in the third season, boasting a .925 save percentage and a 33-15-10 record, earning him the William M. Jennings award for allowing the fewest goals against. Despite this achievement, he placed seventh in Vezina voting.
The Philadelphia Flyers expressed deep sadness over Čechmánek's passing, highlighting his impactful three seasons with the team from 2000 to 2003. The organization acknowledged his success on the ice and the positive influence he had on the club.
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"The Philadelphia Flyers are extremely saddened to hear of the passing of former goaltender Roman Cechmanek. A late-round draft pick, Cechmanek spent three seasons with the team from 2000 through 2003 where he was highly successful and made an instant impact to our club on the ice and in the locker room. Beyond his numbers, which were outstanding, he was beloved by fans and teammates for his personality, distinct style and pride in stopping the puck. He led the Flyers to three straight playoff appearances, two 100-point seasons and an Atlantic Division title, while also being a part of a remarkable tandem with Robert Esche to win the NHL's William M. Jennings Trophy awarded to the goaltenders with the fewest goals scored against during the regular season in 2002-03. His passing at too young of an age is heartbreaking to us all Our thoughts and prayers are with his family during this difficult time."
Our thoughts and prayers go out to the family and friends of Mr. Cechmanek.
| POLL | ||
12 NOVEMBRE | 198 ANSWERS Philadelphia Flyers Issue a Statement on a Tragic Passing Within The Organization Do you remember this Flyers goaltender in Philly? | ||
| Yes | 169 | 85.4 % |
| No | 29 | 14.6 % |
| List of polls | ||
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