Pierre Lacroix is a former professional ice hockey player and executive who had a successful career in the National Hockey League (NHL). Lacroix was born in Quebec City, Quebec, Canada, on February 15, 1948. He began his hockey career as a player, playing for the Quebec Remparts in the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League (QMJHL) from 1966 to 1969. He then played for the University of Denver from 1969 to 1972, where he was a two-time All-American and helped lead the team to two NCAA championships.
After his playing career, Lacroix became a successful executive in the NHL. He began his career as an assistant coach for the Colorado Rockies in 1980, and then moved on to become the team's director of player personnel. In 1987, Lacroix was hired as the general manager of the newly-formed Quebec Nordiques. He quickly turned the team around, leading them to the playoffs in his second season as GM.
In 1995, Lacroix moved the Nordiques to Denver, Colorado, where they became the Colorado Avalanche. He continued to serve as the team's general manager, and under his leadership, the Avalanche became one of the most successful teams in the NHL. The team won two Stanley Cup championships in 1996 and 2001, and made the playoffs in every season from 1995 to 2006.
Lacroix was known for his ability to make shrewd trades and sign key free agents. He acquired several key players for the Avalanche, including Patrick Roy, Ray Bourque, and Peter Forsberg. He also signed Joe Sakic to a long-term contract, which helped to solidify the team's success.
In addition to his success as a general manager, Lacroix was also known for his philanthropic efforts. He and his wife, Claire, founded the Pierre Lacroix Foundation, which supports various charitable causes in Colorado.
Lacroix retired from his position as general manager of the Avalanche in 2006, but his legacy in the NHL continues to be felt. He was inducted into the Colorado Sports Hall of Fame in 2008, and his name is engraved on the Stanley Cup three times. Lacroix's success as a player and executive has made him one of the most respected figures in the history of the NHL.
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