Ron Hextall
Ron Hextall, a renowned NHL goaltender, was known for his aggressive and unorthodox style. He was a two-time Vezina Trophy winner and Conn Smythe Trophy winner, leading the Philadelphia Flyers to the Stanley Cup Finals in 1987. Hextall was also known for his puck-handling skills and willingness to leave his net, making him a unique and influential figure in hockey history. He holds the NHL record for most penalty minutes by a goaltender.
The Illustrious Career of Ron Hextall
Ron Hextall's early years in hockey were marked by a fierce determination and an unconventional approach to goaltending. He honed his skills in the Western Hockey League (WHL) with the Brandon Wheat Kings before being drafted by the Philadelphia Flyers. His NHL debut in 1986-87 season saw him quickly establish himself as a star, winning the Vezina Trophy as the league's best goaltender and leading the Flyers to the Stanley Cup Finals. Hextall's aggressive style, including his willingness to play the puck outside the crease and even engage in fights, made him a polarizing figure. He won the Conn Smythe Trophy as playoff MVP that same year, despite the Flyers losing in the finals. He had later stints with the Quebec Nordiques, New York Islanders, and a second stint with the Flyers, retiring in 1999. He finished his NHL career with 249 wins and 489 penalty minutes, an NHL record for goaltenders. His aggressive style and puck handling revolutionized the Goaltender position in the NHL and hockey in general.