Borje Salming has succumbed to ALS, more commonly known as Lou Gehrig’s disease.
He was 71.
The Hall of Fame defenceman spent 16 of his 17 NHL seasons with the Maple Leafs.
Salming, who was diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis in July, was in Toronto two weeks ago.
He was first honoured November 11, ahead of the annual Hall of Fame game bertween the Leafs and Penguins.
Salming was helped to the ice by good friend and former teammate Darryl Sittler, who broke down watching the reception Salming got from the fans.
The next night after a video tribute was played, an overcome Salming received a standing ovation as he was helped onto the ice and took part in the ceremonial puck drop before the Leafs and Canucks game.
The Toronto Maple Leafs mourn the loss of Borje Salming,” the team said in a statement.
”Borje was a pioneer of the game and an icon with an unbreakable spirit and unquestioned toughness. He helped open the door for Europeans in the NHL and defined himself through his play on the ice and through his contributions to the community.
Borje joined the Maple Leafs 50 years ago and will forever be a part of our hockey family.”