Roy Worters was born on October 19th, 1900

Written by: Grace Lee

Roy Worters: The Legendary Goalie of the NHL

Roy Worters is revered as one of the greatest goaltenders in National Hockey League (NHL) history, known for his remarkable skills and record-breaking feats during his 12-season career. With an impressive 66 shutouts to his name, Worters remains one of the most prolific goalies in the league's history.

Early Life and Career

Born on October 19, 1900, in Toronto, Canada, Worters began his hockey journey playing junior ice hockey with the Toronto Canoe Club Paddlers. He led the team to win the 1920 Memorial Cup, the national junior championship. Worters then spent several years in amateur and senior leagues, honing his skills and building his reputation as a talented netminder.

Rise to Fame in the NHL

In 1925, Worters joined the Pittsburgh Pirates, one of the expansion teams in the NHL. He quickly became an iron man, playing in virtually all of the team's games and showcasing his exceptional skills. During the Pirates' first season, Worters set a then-NHL record by stopping 70 of 73 shots in a 3-1 loss to the New York Americans.

A Season of Triumph with the Americans

In 1928, Worters was traded to the New York Americans, where he would spend the rest of his career. His first season with the Americans saw Worters become the first goaltender to win the Hart Memorial Trophy, awarded to the league's most valuable player. He achieved this impressive feat with a 1.15 goals against average, leading the Americans to second place in the Canadian Division.

Traded to the Canadiens and Back Again

In 1930, Worters was loaned to the Montreal Canadiens for a single game, marking the only time he played for another team besides the Pirates and Americans. He returned to the Americans shortly after and continued to excel in goal.

Legacy and Impact on the Game

Worters' remarkable career was marked by his incredible athleticism, agility, and quick reflexes. At 5'3" (160 cm), he was the shortest player to ever play in the NHL, earning him the nickname "Shrimp." Despite his physical limitations, Worters' determination and skill earned him a place in the Hockey Hall of Fame in 1963.

Personal Milestones and Key Life Events

• Won the 1920 Memorial Cup with the Toronto Canoe Club Paddlers
• Played for the Pittsburgh Pirates (1925-1927) and New York Americans (1927-1937)
• Won the Hart Memorial Trophy in 1929
• Inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 1963

Trivia and Fun Facts

• Worters' 53 shutouts in the NHL still rank among the top 20 in league history.
• He was known for his unorthodox playing style, often using his stick to deflect shots.

Roy Worters' contributions to the game of hockey are immeasurable. His impressive career statistics, impressive awards, and Hall of Fame induction cement his place as one of the greatest goaltenders the NHL has ever seen.