In this May 19, 1984, file photo, Edmonton Oilers' Dave Semenko celebrates a goal by teammate Wayne Gretzky (not shown) past New York Islanders' goaltender Billy Smith during an NHL game in Edmonton Former Edmonton Oilers tough guy Dave Semenko, who protected Wayne Gretzky in the 1980s, has died. He was 59. The Oilers say Semenko died after a short battle with cancer. A team spokesman said Semenko died in Edmonton. (Larry MacDougal/The Canadian Press via AP, File)