Ken Dryden, the Montreal Canadiens icon and six-time Stanley Cup champion, passed away on September 5, 2025, at the age of 78 after a battle with cancer. Known for his remarkable career as a goaltender, lawyer, author, politician, and NHL executive, Dryden left an indelible mark on hockey and Canadian society. This article explores Ken Dryden’s net worth in 2025, his illustrious career, and more.
Who Was Ken Dryden?
Ken Dryden was born on August 8, 1947, in Hamilton, Ontario, and rose to fame as one of the NHL’s greatest goaltenders. Playing for the Montreal Canadiens from 1971 to 1979, he won six Stanley Cups (1971, 1973, 1976–1979) and five Vezina Trophies as the league’s top goaltender. His cerebral approach, towering 6’4” frame, and iconic pose—resting on his stick—made him a legend. Beyond hockey, Dryden was a lawyer, author of the acclaimed book The Game, a politician serving as a Liberal Member of Parliament (2004–2011), and president of the Toronto Maple Leafs (1997–2003).
Dryden’s death was announced by the Canadiens, with owner Geoff Molson stating, “Ken Dryden was an exceptional athlete, but he was also an exceptional man… a cornerstone of one of hockey’s greatest dynasties.”
Ken Dryden’s Net Worth in 2025
As of September 2025, Ken Dryden’s net worth was estimated to be around $5.4 million USD. These estimates, based on public sources, reflect not just his NHL career earnings but also his diverse accomplishments as an author, lawyer, broadcaster, executive, and politician.
During his playing days with the Montreal Canadiens in the 1970s, Dryden earned just over $1.1 million USD in salary, which would equal roughly $6.6 million in today’s value after inflation adjustments. However, his wealth didn’t come solely from hockey. Dryden built a multifaceted career after retiring early in 1979, writing bestselling books such as The Game, working as a television commentator, and later entering Canadian politics, where he served as a Member of Parliament and Minister of Social Development.
By 2025, these varied roles contributed to a stable financial profile, with most online wealth trackers placing him between $5 million and $6 million USD at the time of his death.
Ken Dryden’s Hockey Legacy
Dryden’s on-ice achievements are unparalleled:
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Six Stanley Cups: Won in 1971, 1973, 1976–1979, anchoring the Canadiens’ 1970s dynasty with stars like Guy Lafleur and Larry Robinson.
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Conn Smythe Trophy (1971): Awarded as playoff MVP before winning the Calder Trophy as rookie of the year in 1972, a unique feat in NHL history.
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Five Vezina Trophies: Recognized as the NHL’s top goaltender in 1973, 1976, and 1977–1979.
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Hockey Hall of Fame: Inducted in 1983, with his No. 29 retired by the Canadiens in 2007.
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1972 Summit Series: Played a key role in Canada’s victory over the Soviet Union, a defining moment in hockey history.
His 2.24 goals-against average and .922 save percentage over 397 regular-season games, along with 46 shutouts, cement his status as one of the greatest goaltenders ever.