Gerry McNeil

Gerald George McNeil (April 17, 1926 – June 17, 2004) is a former professional goaltender who played with the Montreal Canadiens in the 1950s.

He was born in Quebec City, Quebec. After a short stay with the Montreal Junior Royals in 1943-44, McNeil played with the senior Montreal Royals from 1944-50. He won the Most Valuable Player Award from 1947–49 and best goaltender in 1945-46 and 1946-47. He also won the Allan Cup in 1946-47.

He played one season with the Cincinnati Mohawks of the American Hockey League in 1949-50. The next season McNeil made it to the Montreal Canadiens full time.

McNeil gave up tough goals to lose the Stanley Cup in 1950-51 (to Bill Barilko) and 1953-54. He did win the Stanley Cup in 1952-53. In 1954 he retired to coach the junior Jonquiere Marquis for one season (1954–55). He then returned as a backup to the Canadiens' Jacques Plante in 1956-57 when he won the Stanley Cup again. He retired in 1961.

Awards

 * 1946-47 Byng of Vimy Trophy
 * 1959-60 EPHL Top Goaltender