Sarah Palin Emotional During Rangers' Tribute to Late Boyfriend Ron Duguay
The New York Rangers honored the hockey legend with a pregame ceremony, bringing his family and longtime girlfriend, Sarah Palin, to tears.
Former Alaska Governor and Vice Presidential candidate Sarah Palin was visibly emotional during a pregame tribute to her late boyfriend, former NHL player Ron Duguay, at Madison Square Garden.
The New York Rangers honored Duguay, who died at 69 after a battle with colon cancer, with a video montage and a moment of silence before their game against the Los Angeles Kings on Monday.
Palin, who announced Duguay's death on social media last Thursday, was present with his family for the ceremony. She was seen wiping away tears as the tribute played on the jumbotron and the crowd cheered for Duguay.
Duguay was diagnosed with Stage 4 colon cancer in December 2024, which later spread to his liver. His daughter Shay Thomas shared on Instagram Stories prior to the game, "Welcome to New York, can't wait to honor Dad in his town."
Fans reacted on social media, with one user on X writing, "Man, you gotta feel for Palin. She can't hold it together. I feel so bad for her and the Duguay family." Another described the moment as "gut-wrenching."
A fan sitting near the family reported offering condolences and stated that they "seem ok."
Duguay played 12 seasons in the NHL from 1977 to 1989, most notably with the New York Rangers and Detroit Red Wings. Drafted 13th overall by the Rangers in 1977, he became a fan favorite known for his speed and charisma.
The Rangers organization issued a statement mourning his loss, calling him "one of the most popular players in franchise history." The statement highlighted his "signature skating style" and noted that his "skill, tenacity, and charisma earned him the admiration of all New Yorkers."
During his career, Duguay recorded 216 goals and 320 assists for 536 points. His most productive season was 1981-82, when he scored a career-high 40 goals.
After retiring from professional hockey, Duguay transitioned to broadcasting, serving as an in-studio analyst for MSG Network's coverage of the Rangers for 12 years before stepping down in 2018.