Former Leafs Stanley Cup Champion passes away
The Toronto Maple Leafs announced with heavy hearts today the passing of Phil Samis. Samis was a member of the Stanley Cup winning Toronto Maple Leafs in 1948. He was 94 at the time of his passing, and was the oldest living Leafs Stanley Cup Champion until then.
Toronto Daily Star hockey writer Red Burnett wrote about Samis' playing style in 1948. "He is a quiet, unassuming chappie off the ice. Put a pair of skates on him and he becomes a belligerent warrior who neither asks nor gives a quarter."
His tenure in Toronto ended shortly following a contract dispute with the legendary Conn Smythe.
Samis later won the 1951 AHL Championship with the Cleveland Barons, along with iconic Leafs goaltender Johnny Bower.
Samis retired from hockey in September 1953 to pursue his education and later became a dentist. Our condolences go out to Phil's family and friends.
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