Leafs legend Borje Salming announces diagnosis that has 'shaken me and my family'

Sad news out of the hockey world. Borje Salming, a former NHL defenceman whose number 21 is retired by the Toronto Maple Leafs, has announced a terrible diagnosis.

"I have received new that has shaken me and my family," said Salming in a statement released by the Leafs. "The signs that indicated there was something wrong with my body turned out to be the disease ALS, or Lou Gehrig's Disease."

There is no cure for ALS. There are treatments that can slow the progression of the disease, something Salming said he intends to try with the help of his family.

"I do not know how the days ahead will be, but I understand there will be challenges greater than anything I have ever faced," said Salming.

"Since I started playing ice hockey as a little kid in Kiruna, and throughout my career, I have given it my all. And I will continue to do so."

Salming was one of the first European players to make a big impact in the NHL. He was one of the best defenceman of his era in the league, and was recognized for this by being inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 1996 (the first Swede to be inducted in the HHof). He holds numerous records with the Toronto Maple Leafs, including most career points by a defenceman. He was also recognized for his international play with Team Sweden by being selected to the International Ice Hockey Federation's Centennial All-Star Team. In 2017, he was named one of the 100 Greatest NHL Players ever. Salming spent his entire NHL career with the Maple Leafs except for 49 games with the Detroit Red Wings in 1989-90, the last year he played in the NHL.

Our thoughts are with Salming and his family at this very difficult time. He has asked that he and his family's privacy be respected at this time.

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