Brimsek's professional career took off when he joined the Boston Bruins in 1938. His entry into the NHL was nothing short of spectacular. In his rookie season, Brimsek quickly earned the nickname "Mr. Zero" due to his impressive ability to keep the puck out of the net. He recorded six shutouts in his first seven games, an extraordinary feat that set the tone for his career. That season, he played a crucial role in leading the Bruins to the Stanley Cup championship, solidifying his place as one of the league's top goaltenders.
Throughout his tenure with the Bruins, Brimsek was known for his agility, quick reflexes, and calm demeanor under pressure. His performance on the ice earned him the Vezina Trophy twice, awarded to the NHL's best goaltender, in 1939 and 1942. Additionally, he was selected to the NHL All-Star team multiple times, further cementing his reputation as one of the era's elite goaltenders.
World War II interrupted Brimsek's hockey career, as he served in the United States Coast Guard from 1943 to 1945. Despite the hiatus, he returned to the NHL with the same level of skill and determination that had characterized his earlier years. Upon his return, Brimsek continued to be a reliable presence in the net for the Bruins, consistently delivering strong performances.
In 1949, Brimsek was traded to the Chicago Black Hawks, where he played for two more seasons before retiring in 1950. Over the course of his NHL career, he played in 514 regular-season games, achieving 252 wins, 182 losses, and 80 ties, along with 40 shutouts. His playoff record was equally impressive, with 24 wins and 17 losses in 41 games.
Brimsek's contributions to the sport were recognized with his induction into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 1966.
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