Legendary Sabres broadcaster Rick Jeanneret dies at 81

Rick Jeanneret, the legendary hockey broadcaster who called Buffalo Sabres games for over 50 years, died Thursday, the team announced. He was 81.

A statement released by the Jeanneret family via the Sabres said the Hall of Fame play-by-play man died "after a two year battle with multi-organ failures."

Jeanneret joined the Sabres in 1971 — just their second season in the NHL — and called games on radio and (starting in 1995) TV until 2022.

"Rick was indeed a very special and very loved man, to and by all, who knew him and listened to him, his magic, and his command," Sabres owner Terry Pegula said in a statement released by the team. "How glad I am to have known him. How lucky were we all to have been around him and to have listened to him. 

"Rick Jeanneret's mark on Sabres history extends far beyond the broadcast booth and we will miss him dearly."

Jeanneret was known for his enthusiastic calls, some of which — such as his 1993 "May Day!" call when Brad May eliminated the Boston Bruins in the playoffs with a spectacular overtime goal — became among the most famous calls in NHL history.

Jeanneret picked up numerous accolades over the years, including the Hockey Hall of Fame's Foster Hewitt Award in 2012.

"Growing up in Buffalo, Rick Jeanneret was not just the voice of the Sabres, he was the voice for our city. He helped foster my love of hockey, along with so many others," Sabres general manager Kevyn Adams said in a statement. "Beyond the booth, Rick was an incredible man that was loved by all. His wit and humor was unmatched and we are all lucky to have known him. 

"I am heartbroken by his passing and send my condolences to his wife, Sandra, and all of his family and friends. May he rest in peace."