Tony Esposito
Inducted:
1988
Player Stats
5 ft 11 in (180 cm)
185 lb (84 kg; 13 st 3 lb)
Born:
April 23, 1943
Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario, Canada
Died:
August 10, 2021
Chicago, Illinois, U.S.
Position:
Goaltender
College:
Michigan Technological University
Tony Esposito was a pioneering goaltender known for his innovative butterfly style and remarkable consistency. Playing primarily for the Chicago Blackhawks from 1969 to 1984, Esposito was a dominant presence in the net, earning respect for his quick reflexes and calm under pressure. He won the Calder Trophy as the NHL’s top rookie and was a three-time Vezina Trophy winner as the league’s best goaltender.
Known for his competitiveness and durability, Esposito set franchise records and was instrumental in leading the Blackhawks to multiple playoff appearances. His influence extended beyond his playing career, helping popularize goaltending techniques that are standard today. Tony Esposito was inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 1988, cementing his place among the game’s all-time greats.
Esposito's Awards and Records
- Stanley Cup Champion (1969)
- Calder Memorial Trophy (1970)
- Vezina Trophy (1970, 1972, 1974)
- Played 886 NHL games, one of the era’s most durable goalies
NHL Records
- NHL First All-Star Team Goalie (1970, 1972, 1980)
- NHL Second All-Star Team Goalie (1973, 1974)
- Set the Chicago Blackhawks franchise record for wins (423)
- Led the NHL in goals against average twice (1970, 1972)
- Awarded the Calder Memorial Trophy as rookie of the year in 1969
- Selected to 6 NHL All-Star Games during his career
Career Teams:
Montreal Canadiens (1968-1969)
Chicago Black Hawks (1969-1984)
National team:
Canada (1972,1977)
United States (1981)
Number Worn:
35
Career Stats
Seasons:
1968–1984
Games Played:
886
Wins:
423
Losses:
306
Ties:
151
Goals Against Average:
3.07
Shutouts:
6
Save Percentage:
.903