The Hockey World is Mourning the Tragic Loss of a NHL Original Six Goaltender

Mark Laforest, also known for his nickname 'Trees', was the Toronto Maple Leafs' former goaltender.

Born in Welland, Ontario, LaForest began his major junior hockey career with the OHL's Niagara Falls Flyers in the 1981-82 season, continues with the team as it relocated to become the North Bay Centennials the following year.

Despite two solid OHL seasons under his belt, he was left undrafted in the NHL, but secured a multi-year deal with the Detroit Red Wings as a free agent.

Prior to LaForest making his NHL debut in 1985/86, he played 18 games amongst Detroit's AHL affiliate, the Adirondack Red Wings, and their IHL team, the Kalamazoo Wings.

The goaltender finished his career with the Ottawa Senators in the 1992 NHL Expansion Draft, and wouldn't return to the NHL until the 1993/94 campaign after spending a year with Ottawa AHL affiliate, the New Haven Senators.

He made his presents in five games for the Sens that season, with the last goal scored against him was from Jari Kurri, assisted by Wayne Gretzky, and Tony Granato.

LaForest spent the rest of his few season in the IHL and AHL before finally hanging up his skates after the 1996/67 campaign, yet he remained active in his community, and appeared at several Philadelphia Flyers and Toronto Maple Leafs alumni events.

Our condolences to Mark LaForest's family and friends.