Twitter reaction: Hockey world mourns Hall of Famer Ted Lindsay

The NHL mourns the loss of Red Wings’ legend Ted Lindsay, as Scott Morrison discusses the great career and life moments from the 4-time Stanley Cup champ, who died at the age of 93. (1925 - 2019).

Sportsnet Staff March 4, 2019, 11:12 AM

Losses are hard, and painful, and unifying.

On Monday morning, the hockey world suffered a big one. Ted Lindsay, the Detroit Red Wings legend and pioneer of the National Hockey League Players’ Association, died at age 93, the NHL Alumni Association confirmed Monday.

“All current and former NHL players lost a true friend with the passing of Ted Lindsay,” a statement from NHLPA executive director Don Fehr read. “‘Terrible Ted’ was one of the fiercest competitors to ever play in the NHL, and he enjoyed great success on the Detroit’s fabled Production Line, helping lead the Red Wings to four Stanley Cup championships. On the ice, Ted Lindsay was one of the best players to ever to put on a pair of skates.

“But his greatest legacy was off the ice. A true trailblazer in seeking to improve conditions for all players, Ted was instrumental in organizing the original Players’ Association in 1957. All Players, past, current and future, are in his debt.”

Finding words to summarize the life and impact of a man like Lindsay is no small undertaking, but fans from around the world rushed to do their best, taking to Twitter to pay their respects and say farewell to an icon.

“Terrible Ted” was one of the nicest men in hockey. Every player should be thankful for his courage to create the Players Association, which has grown into partnership between the players and owners of the NHL. He was a true champion on and off the ice and will be deeply missed.

— Wayne Gretzky (@WayneGretzky) March 4, 2019

Ted Lindsay created the tradition of skating around the rink with the Stanley Cup.

After the Red Wings won in 1950, he “took it to” the fans at Olympia Stadium. pic.twitter.com/GdfYvYFqef

— Brad Galli (@BradGalli) March 4, 2019

Ted Lindsay boycotted his Hall of Fame induction because wives & children weren't allowed to attend. Policy changed next year.

"My feeling was, families put up with us when we were temperamental idiots, they should be able to enjoy the benefits of what the League is giving us." pic.twitter.com/5eQqvfP6Hf

— Jen (@NHLhistorygirl) March 4, 2019

So sad to hear of Ted Lindsay’s passing. This is the last time I saw him at Joe Louis Arena. He’ll be remembered for many things but I’ll remember “Terrible Ted” most for how much of a gentleman he was & how much he adored his wife Joanne. They are together again. pic.twitter.com/OKkwrcOe7f

— Christine Simpson (@SNChrisSimpson) March 4, 2019

Ted Lindsay was a true hero to me. I never saw him play live, but I saw him live life. And if we all lived like that this world would be a far better place. What an incredible man! I love you Mr. Lindsay! You will never be forgotten. #RestInPeace

— Trevor Thompson (@iamtrevort) March 4, 2019

I was lucky enough to meet Ted Lindsay when I was in my 20s. He was a man of small stature but his personality filled up the entire room. "Terrible Ted" stood for his iron will on the ice, his battle for players rights and his fight for Children with Autism. We will miss you.

— Erika (@TheKaBG) March 4, 2019

Detroit's Production Line was among the 1st nicknamed lines in hockey history. Sid Abel, centering Gordie Howe and Ted Lindsay. Lindsay, the last member of that line died today at 93. Among the many things he did in his career. He started the tradition of skating the Stanley Cup.

— Chuck Cooperstein (@MavsOnPump) March 4, 2019

My father adored Ted Lindsay. The story of the impact he had on the game and those who play it at its highest level should be mandatory reading for every young player. If one of life's goals is to leave the place better than you found it, Ted was an all-timer. Rest well sir. https://t.co/j7dLX7UmN2

— Ken Vezina (@kennyvez) March 4, 2019

RIP Mr Terrible Ted Lindsay there are stars superstars legends and pioneers ..you were all of them but especially pioneer..every current nhl player owes you a debt of gratitude for your sacrifices & vision..bless the family-gordie & the gang r waiting for u in heavens lockerroom

— Michigan Mike~The Vyrus EST 1981 (@mikemacman21) March 4, 2019

https://twitter.com/ivyandconey/status/1102559073868881920

https://twitter.com/tedlindsay66/status/1102558577825325056

If you only know Ted Lindsay as the hockey player and Red Wings legend, take a second to read up on his efforts in forming the NHLPA. Appreciate the hell out of someone who stands for principle regardless of personal cost. RIP, Ted.

— Patrick Smith (@plsmithca) March 4, 2019

When Ted Lindsay came out of retirement at age 39 after being out of the game for four seasons, he played 69 of 70 games and helped lead the Red Wings to the Stanley Cup Finals — a 7 game loss to Leafs. There was no "load management" — or playing when you feel like it.

— Mike O'Hara (@MikeOHaraNFL) March 4, 2019

https://twitter.com/hockeenight/status/1102581810276589571

https://twitter.com/Dave_Stubbs/status/1102581631678853120

A gentleman, a multiple Stanley Cup winner, an honoured member of the HHOF, a fan of the game, and a dedicated member of the #NHLAlumni– Ted Lindsay has passed away at the age of 93. A great loss for the entire hockey community. Our thoughts are with the Lindsay family. pic.twitter.com/WWDmZeDqR3

— NHL Alumni (@NHLAlumni) March 4, 2019