A single photograph can freeze time, but some legends refuse to be contained by any frame. On a quiet Saturday, the Montreal Canadiens announced the passing of Robert Rousseau, and suddenly, the city’s heartbeat seemed to falter. At 85, Rousseau leaves behind more than numbers and trophies—he leaves behind stories that ripple through generations, moments that shaped the very soul of hockey in Montreal. Yet, as the news spread, one question lingered in every corner of the Bell Centre, on every fan’s lips: What was the secret behind Rousseau’s enduring greatness?

It’s easy to count the games—942 in total, stretching across 15 seasons and three iconic jerseys. But no statistic can capture the electricity of Rousseau’s rookie year, when a skinny kid from Montreal took the ice and changed the course of Canadiens history. That season, 1961-62, he scored 21 goals and earned the Calder Trophy, a feat that came with a modest $1,000 bonus but an immeasurable impact. Fans still smile at the memory, not just for the numbers, but for the way Rousseau’s arrival signaled a new era—one marked by speed, skill, and an unwavering desire to win.

His name is etched into the record books with two 30-goal seasons, but those who watched him play know the real story lies in the moments between the goals. In 1965-66, Rousseau erupted for 78 points in just 70 games, a performance that made the league take notice and opponents rethink their strategies. He repeated the magic in 1968-69, proving that greatness is never a one-time thing. And then there was that unforgettable night—February 1, 1964—when Rousseau scored five goals in a single game, a feat so rare it still echoes in the halls of the Forum and in the hearts of anyone who witnessed it.

But Rousseau wasn’t just a scorer; he was a champion. Four times he lifted the Stanley Cup with the Canadiens—in 1965, 1966, 1968, and 1969—each victory adding another chapter to a story that spanned eras and inspired countless young players to dream bigger. His playoff numbers—128 games, 84 points—are a testament to his resilience and his ability to rise when the stakes were highest. Yet even as the spotlight shone brightest, Rousseau remained grounded, a player whose humility matched his talent.

The Canadiens’ official statement spoke of sadness and pride, of memories and milestones. But there is something more, something unspoken, that hangs in the air whenever Rousseau’s name is mentioned. It’s the feeling that his legacy is more than just records—it’s a mystery, a quiet force that continues to shape the team and the city he called home. As fans gather to mourn and celebrate, they find themselves drawn to the question that defined Rousseau’s career: What made him different? What drove him to greatness?

To answer that, you have to look beyond the numbers, beyond the trophies, and into the heart of a legend whose story is still unfolding, even after the final whistle. There’s a secret in the way Rousseau played, a lesson hidden in every shift and every goal—a lesson that, even now, the Canadiens are still trying to learn.

Photo of Canadiens legend Robert Rousseau

Photo credit: All Montreal Hockey / NHL

On Saturday, the Canadiens announced the passing of Robert Rousseau at the age of 85.

Rousseau played 15 seasons in the NHL and wore the uniforms of the Montreal Canadiens, the Minnesota North Stars, and the New York Rangers. He leaves behind a record of 942 games played, 245 goals, 458 assists, and 703 points. His playoff totals rise to 128 games and 84 points, which says a great deal about his longevity.

The Montreal Canadiens released the following statement:

“It is with great sadness that the Canadiens family learned of the passing of Robert Rousseau at the age of 85, in Trois-Rivières. Born on July 26, 1940, in Montreal, he had a long and successful NHL career, including 10 seasons with the Habs, winning the Stanley Cup four times between 1961 and 1970.”

– Montreal Canadiens

His rookie season in 1961-62 immediately set the tone: 70 games, 21 goals, 24 assists, for 45 points. That production earned him the Calder Trophy, and the details of the time bring a smile today, as it was reported that the bonus was $1,000.

Robert Rousseau and His 30-Goal Seasons

With the Canadiens, Rousseau recorded two 30-goal seasons. In 1965-66, he broke out with 30 goals and 78 points in 70 games, then repeated the feat with 30 goals and 70 points in 1968-69. No need for a long speech: 78 points in 70 games speaks for itself.

He was also part of historic moments in Canadiens history. Rousseau won the Stanley Cup four times in Montreal, in 1965, 1966, 1968, and 1969. And on February 1, 1964, he scored five goals in a single game, a night that remains etched in fans’ memories.

When you add up the numbers, you get a career that spanned eras: a rookie who won the Calder, two 30-goal seasons, and playoff runs where he continued to fill the scoresheet. The Canadiens today lose a name tied to imposing statistics and a story all his own.

Deepest condolences to his family and loved ones.