Frank Brimsek, Boston Bruins
Known as “Mr. Zero,” Frank Brimsek earned his nickname with six shutouts in his first 10 NHL games and two three-game shutout streaks during his rookie season (1938-39). He was awarded the Calder Trophy in 1939 as NHL Rookie of the Year and the Vezina Trophy in 1939 and 1942. Brimsek played a key role in the Bruins’ Stanley Cup victories in 1939 and 1941. His strength lay in his ability to play angles effectively and maintain composure under pressure. “They also called him ‘Frigid Frankie’ because he was so cool under fire,” noted Brimsek’s biographer, Ty Dilello.
Glenn Hall, Chicago Black Hawks
Glenn Hall, famously known as “Mister Goalie,” holds the record for 502 consecutive maskless games. He led the Black Hawks to their first Stanley Cup in 23 years during the 1960-61 season and is credited with popularizing the “Butterfly” style of goaltending. “He became the benchmark of steadiness,” said Hockey News editor Ryan Kennedy. Hall was instrumental in taking the St. Louis Blues to the 1968 Stanley Cup Final and won the Conn Smythe Trophy despite a sweep by the Montreal Canadiens.
Terry Sawchuk, Detroit Red Wings
Terry Sawchuk, described by NHL goalie and general manager Emile Francis as “The greatest goalkeeper ever,” had an illustrious career. He won four Stanley Cups and was known for his remarkable playoff performances, including an eight-game sweep in 1952 with a 0.63 goals-against average. Sawchuk received the Calder Trophy, Vezina Trophy four times, and was a three-time First Team All-Star. At 37, he helped the Maple Leafs win their last Stanley Cup in 1967, calling it “The biggest thrill of my life!”
Jacques Plante, Canadiens
Jacques Plante, a revolutionary figure in goaltending, was the first to wear a mask and leave the net to handle the puck. Under his guard, the Canadiens won the Stanley Cup in 1953 and five consecutive times from 1956-60. He earned the Vezina Trophy seven times and the Hart Trophy in 1962. “No goalie both dominated and revolutionized the game like Plante,” said historian Ken Campbell.
Dave Kerr, Rangers
Dave Kerr, who won the Stanley Cup with the Rangers in 1940, is remembered for his outstanding career spanning 11 seasons. He played every minute of his last five seasons and set a high standard for goaltending. Kerr’s career ended abruptly when he demanded a $10,000 contract, leading general manager Lester Patrick to refuse. At 31, Kerr decided to leave hockey, marking the end of a notable career.
Turk Broda, Maple Leafs
Turk Broda, a native of Brandon, Manitoba, was renowned for his clutch performances in the playoffs. He helped the Maple Leafs win the Stanley Cup from 1947-49 and secured his last championship in 1951. “Turk was a bloody marvel in clutch games,” said teammate Howie Meeker. Maple Leafs owner Conn Smythe praised him as “the best team man I ever had.”
Stuart Skinner, Edmonton Oilers
Stuart Skinner, the Edmonton Oilers’ standout goalie, demonstrated remarkable resilience during the 2023 playoffs despite a challenging start. His performance (14-9, 2.45 GAA, .901 save percentage) was crucial in leading the Oilers to the Stanley Cup Final, though they fell just short in Game 7 against the Florida Panthers.
Sergei Bobrovsky, Panthers
Sergei Bobrovsky overcame initial doubts to become a pillar of consistency for the Florida Panthers, leading them to their first Stanley Cup. At 35, he finished among the top five in major goaltending stats, playing at least 50 games for the third consecutive season and winning 36 games.
Jacob Markstrom, New Jersey Devils
Jacob Markstrom, a Vezina runner-up in 2021-22, rebounded strongly from a disappointing season with the Flames. He led the NHL in high-danger save percentage (.857) and tied for fifth in high-danger saves (359), showcasing his resilience and performance consistency.
Igor Shesterkin, Rangers
Igor Shesterkin, often compared to Rangers legend Henrik Lundqvist, was pivotal for the Rangers in the 2023-24 season. His performance earned him comparisons to the league’s best goalies and solidified his role as a critical player for the Rangers’ future successes.
Thatcher Demko, Vancouver Canucks
Thatcher Demko, a key factor in the Canucks’ surprise success, achieved 35 wins in 51 games last season. Despite an injury that ended his playoff run early, his ability to perform under pressure indicates potential for elite-level play in the coming years.
Connor Hellebuyck, Winnipeg Jets
Connor Hellebuyck, a two-time Vezina Trophy winner, had one of his best seasons in 2023-24, despite the Jets being eliminated in the first round by the Avalanche. He led the NHL with a .921 save percentage and has faced more shots than any other goalie since his debut. “No goalie has faced more shots than Hellebuyck since he arrived in the NHL in 2015-16,” noted Michael Traikos of The Hockey News.
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