Greg Polis | Wood Wheaton GM

Long-time Prince George resident and former NHL forward Greg Polis has died at the age of 67.

He passed away early Sunday morning due to cancer.

After being drafted seventh overall by the Penguins in 1970, Polis went on to a 10-year NHL career with four teams, including Pittsburgh, St. Louis, Washington, and the New York Rangers.

He notched 343 points (174G, 169A) in 615 games.

The Dapp, Alberta native was named MVP of the 1973 NHL All-Star Game, an honor that won him a Dodge Charger.

His pro career was hampered by several knee injuries that required operations.

Prior to his NHL career, Polis starred with the Estevan Bruins of the Western Canada Hockey League.

He was runner-up in scoring behind Bobby Clarke in 1969 with 125 points (40G, 85A) in 60 games, and second behind Reggie Leach in 1969-70 with 104 points (48G, 56A) in 60 games.

Polis became a full-time Prince George resident after his NHL career ended, spending much of his time in the automobile business.

He also excelled in handball (attending several Canadian championships) and golf.

Polis moved to Vancouver Island two-and-a-half years ago to be closer to his family; he is survived by his three children.