Wayne Thomas died at 77 after a prolonged battle with cancer. He spent 45 years in professional hockey, starting as an NHL goalie and transitioning to a successful coaching and executive role with the San Jose Sharks. Following his playing career, he worked for over two decades with the Sharks, focusing on goaltender development, notably with Evgeni Nabokov, and serving as assistant general manager. Thomas began his hockey journey at the University of Wisconsin before playing for the NHL's Canadiens, Maple Leafs, and Rangers.
Wayne Thomas, a prominent figure in hockey, dedicated 45 years to the sport, playing and coaching in the NHL with three Original Six franchises and the San Jose Sharks.
After a long battle with cancer, Wayne Thomas passed away at 77. His career as a goaltender and later as a coach and executive greatly impacted the San Jose Sharks.
Thomas played in the NHL from 1972 to 1981, primarily with the Montreal Canadiens, Toronto Maple Leafs, and New York Rangers, and later coached and managed for over two decades.
Thomas played three years at the University of Wisconsin, where he recorded a shutout in his first game and helped his team reach the Frozen Four Tournament.
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