BUFFALO, N.Y. — Buffalo Sabres legend Rene Robert has died at the age of 72, the team announced Tuesday.
Robert was hospitalized last week after suffering a heart attack.
The right winger was part of the high-scoring "French Connection" line with teammates and fellow French-Canadians Gilbert Perreault and Rick Martin in the 1970s. All three players have had their numbers retired by the Sabres and are memorialized in front of KeyBank Center with a statue erected in 2012.
Robert had 222 goals and 552 points in 524 games with the Sabres. He was selected to two All-Star games during his time in Buffalo, and was a Second NHL All-Star Team selection in 1975.
The Sabres issued a statement, saying in part:
"Rene was a tremendous player, teammate and person and truly loved this organization. His accomplishments on the ice as a member of the French Connection speak for themselves, but his impact in the community continued long past his playing career. Our thoughts are with Rene’s family and friends during this difficult time."
Team owner Terry Pegula also released a statement, saying:
"Kim and I were saddened to hear the devastating news of Rene Robert’s passing. When we first took over as owners, the members of The French Connection were three of the first people to welcome us to the organization. During our time with the team, Rene has been one of the most active alumni and we’ve grown to know him well over the past 10 years. He was a friend to us and to the entire organization and will be missed dearly. Our thoughts and prayers are with Rene’s family during this difficult time."
