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Famed goalie dies after short battle with pancreatic cancer
A native of Sault Ste. Marie, Esposito started his career with Montreal but after 13 games was left unprotected, and taken by Chicago in an intraleague draft for $25,000 US.
Esposito helped lead the Blackhawks to first place in 1970, showcasing his butterfly style for 15 shutouts, still a modern record for an N-H-L goalie.
His older brother, Phil, a star in his own right, played 18 seasons in the NHL.