ST. LOUIS – The St. Louis Blues released the following statement on the passing of the original Blue Jimmy Roberts:

"The St. Louis Blues and the Blues Alumni organization are deeply saddened by the passing of the original Blue Jimmy Roberts. Jimmy was the franchise’s first-ever draft pick and was instrumental in building the foundation of Blues hockey as a player and upholding its tradition as an alumnus. His tireless contributions to St. Louis, the Blues and the game of hockey as a whole will forever live as an example for future generations to follow. Our thoughts and prayers go out to his wife, Judy, and their two daughters.”

Jimmy Roberts was a five-time Stanley Cup Champion (1965, 1966, 1973, 1976, 1977) with the Montreal Canadiens and a three-time NHL All-Star (1965, 1969, 1970). He was the St. Louis Blues’ original member – the club’s first-ever draft pick in the 1967 expansion draft – and led them to the Stanley Cup Finals in each of the franchise’s first three seasons.

Overall, he dressed in 1,159 career NHL games, including 447 with the Blues, before retiring in St. Louis after the 1977-78 season.

After his playing career, Jimmy went on to coach Buffalo (1981-82), Hartford (1991-92) and St. Louis (1996-97).