Ralph Backstrom, a center who played for 6 Stanley Cup Champion teams while a member of the Montreal Canadiens, died on 2/7 at age 83. Cause of death has not been announced.

Ralph first played for Montreal during the 1956-57 season, and became a regular as of the 1958-59 NHL campaign. He continued with Montreal through the midst of the 1970-71 season, when he was dealt to the Kings. He was part of the Los Angeles until late in1972-73, when he was dealt to the Blackhawks and played there for 16 games.

In 1973-74, he still played with Chicago...but for the WHA Cougars, where he also played in 1974-75. The 1975-76 season found him with the WHA Denver Spurs, and was sent to the New England Whalers (also WHA) in mid-season, ending his pro career there the following season.

He led or was tied for the league lead in games played 4 times (3 NHL, 1 WHA).

Dave Miedema