Goalie who won the Conn Smythe Trophy in 1966 despite his team losing in the Stanley Cup Finals, known for his impressive playoff performance.
Roger Crozier, a stalwart Canadian professional ice hockey goaltender, is renowned for his impressive 14-season tenure in the National Hockey League (NHL), playing for the Detroit Red Wings, Buffalo Sabres, and Washington Capitals. During this period, he earned the esteemed Calder Memorial Trophy and became the first player to win the Conn Smythe Trophy while representing the losing team in the Stanley Cup Finals.
Born on March 16, 1942, in the quaint town of Bracebridge, Ontario, Crozier was the sixth of fourteen children to Lloyd and Mildred Crozier. His fascination with goaltending began at the tender age of six, and by 14, he had already emerged as the starting goaltender for the local senior hockey team, the Bracebridge Bears.
Crozier's junior career with the St. Catharines Teepees of the Ontario Hockey Association (OHA) from 1959 to 1962 showcased his exceptional skills, earning him a spot in the NHL. His remarkable performances in the league led to his first NHL contract with the Detroit Red Wings in 1963.
Crozier's illustrious career was marked by several milestones, including:
Despite struggling with pancreatitis and other health problems throughout his junior hockey career and into his professional playing days, Crozier persevered, eventually retiring in 1976-1977. Following his retirement, he went on to join the Washington Capitals' front office and later worked for MBNA bank. In 2000, MBNA introduced the Roger Crozier Saving Grace Award, presented annually to the goaltender with the best save percentage during the regular season in the NHL.
Crozier's contributions to the world of hockey were formally recognized with his induction into the Buffalo Sports Hall of Fame in 2009. His lasting impact on the sport is a testament to his unwavering dedication and perseverance in the face of adversity.
Lloyd and Mildred Crozier's sixth child, Roger, was part of a close-knit family of fourteen siblings. Although his personal life remained largely private, his professional achievements continue to inspire generations of hockey enthusiasts.
Roger Crozier's remarkable journey serves as a shining example of resilience, determination, and an unrelenting passion for the sport of hockey.
98 Years Old
Legendary hockey player known for his incredible on-ice longevity, playing professionally until age 52, and scoring over 800 goals in his career.
Born in 1925
A four-time Stanley Cup champion and Hall of Famer, known for his rugged playing style and advocacy for players' rights. He later became a popular sportscaster and hockey executive.
94 Years Old
A legendary figure in the NHL, serving as a player, coach, and manager, known for his 22-year tenure with the Detroit Red Wings, leading the team to three Stanley Cup championships. He's a Hockey Hall of Famer and one of the greatest leaders in NHL history.
96 Years Old
Goalie who won four Stanley Cups and holds the record for most wins in the NHL, known for his pioneering butterfly style of play.
96 Years Old
Defender who played 1,206 NHL games and coached the Pittsburgh Penguins to a Stanley Cup Finals appearance in 1976. Known for his durability and leadership on the blue line.
99 Years Old
A four-time Stanley Cup champion as a player and coach, he's most known for his impressive hockey career and later serving as a Member of Parliament.
90 Years Old
A Hall of Fame center who played 20 seasons in the NHL, scoring over 490 goals and winning the Stanley Cup in 1962. He's a legendary figure in Canadian hockey history.
88 Years Old
A Hall of Fame left winger who played in the NHL for 18 seasons, winning four Stanley Cups with the Toronto Maple Leafs, and later served as a Canadian Senator.
