Hockey's Scariest Goalie Mask & Cool Things About Byfuglien
Also, some "Today in Hockey History", revisiting the Kessel, Heatley, & Hossa trades, and more.
Welcome to the THW Hockey History Substack newsletter, with all the best from our extensive archives.
In today’s edition, we have a couple “Today in Hockey History” posts, hockey’s scariest goalie mask and the man behind it, interesting things about former NHLer Dustin Byfuglien, a look back at the Phil Kessel trade that brought him to the Maple Toronto Leafs, and more.
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Now on to the good stuff…
Today in Hockey History: March 29
This date in National Hockey League history was one to remember for the Great One. A handful of netminders left their mark on the game. A historic contract was inked and memories were made in the Windy City. The THW time machine is fired up and ready to take us on our daily trip through the years to relive the best moments March 29 has had to offer.
Hockey’s Scariest Goalie Mask and the Man Behind It
There have been many a memorable goalie mask to draw attention in the NHL. Some of them far more iconic than the netminders who donned them, while others were an extension of the goaltender’s persona. 2011 Hockey Hall of Fame inductee and Stanley Cup champion Eddie “The Eagle” Belfour comes to mind in particular, as the masks he wore in his 18 NHL seasons were typically emblazoned with a bald eagle along the sides.
The Marian Hossa for Dany Heatley Trade, Revisited
Eighteen years ago, the Ottawa Senators and Atlanta Thrashers shocked the hockey world in a superstar for superstar (plus Greg de Vries) trade. Let’s take a look back at the players involved, the trade itself, and the aftermath.
Today in Hockey History: March 28
March 28 is a significant date in National Hockey League history, with some of the biggest names and greatest players to ever take the ice having historical moments. Between some of the top goal-scorers and the best netminders hitting major milestones, this date belongs in the Hall of Fame.
Did the Bruins Lose the Kessel Deal?
Public opinion of the Phil Kessel trade has swung back and forth dramatically over the years. Dealing a 22-year-old potential superstar, fresh off of a 36-goal season, initially received a lukewarm reception. Faced with a trade request, and staring down a potential cap crunch, Boston Bruins’ general manager (GM) Peter Chiarelli made the controversial yet necessary decision to move Kessel to the Toronto Maple Leafs.
7 Fun Facts About Dustin Byfuglien
At 35 years old, Dustin Byfuglien was an NHL defenseman for well over a decade. He has played for the Winnipeg Jets, Chicago Blackhawks, and the Atlanta Thrashers (who became the Jets). It’s hard to overlook the significance of his presence given his size, grit, and skill.