Gerry Desjardins (born November 30, 1953) is a Canadian former professional ice‑hockey goaltender. He played in the National Hockey League (NHL) from 1973 to 1986, most notably with the Chicago Black Hawks, the Vancouver Canucks, and the Los Angeles Kings.
Early life and amateur career
Desjardins was born in Rouyn‑Noranda, Quebec, Canada. He developed as a goaltender in the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League (QMJHL), playing for the Montreal Junior Canadiens and the Sorel Éperviers.
Professional career
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Chicago Black Hawks (1973–1979) – Desjardins debuted in the NHL during the 1973‑74 season. He became the Black Hawks' starting goaltender by the 1975‑76 season, recording a career‑high 34 wins that year. He was selected to the NHL All‑Star Game in 1976 and 1977.
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Vancouver Canucks (1979–1982) – Traded to Vancouver in 1979, Desjardins served as the Canucks' primary net‑minder, posting a 3.02 goals‑against average (GAA) in the 1979‑80 season.
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Los Angeles Kings (1982–1985) – Desjardins joined the Kings in 1982, where he shared goaltending duties and contributed to the team's first playoff series win in 1982.
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Hartford Whalers (1985–1986) – He concluded his NHL tenure with a brief stint at Hartford before retiring from professional play in 1986.
Across his NHL career, Desjardins appeared in 506 regular‑season games, recorded a 3.00 career GAA, and logged 26 shutouts.
Playing style
Desjardins was noted for his positional play and quick reflexes. He employed a hybrid style that combined traditional stand‑up techniques with early elements of the butterfly approach, which later became prevalent among goaltenders.
Post‑playing career
After retirement, Desjardins remained involved in hockey as a goaltending coach and scout for various junior and professional teams in Canada. He has also participated in alumni events and charitable initiatives related to the sport.
Personal life
Desjardins resides in Quebec and has been active in community outreach programs promoting youth sports. He is married and has two children.
Legacy
Desjardins is remembered for his consistency as a starter during the 1970s and early 1980s and for contributing to the development of modern goaltending techniques in the NHL.