Introduction
Tom Barrasso, a former professional ice hockey goaltender, is a legend of the game. He played for numerous NHL teams and helped lead his teams to multiple titles. However, there are several facts about Tom Barrasso that most people don’t know about. In this blog post, we’ll share five surprising facts about Tom Barrasso that will not only amaze you but also give you a more in-depth understanding of his life.
Fact 1: Youngest Player to Win a Playoff Game
Tom Barrasso was only 18 years old when he became the youngest player to win a playoff game in NHL history. He played for the Buffalo Sabres in the 1983 playoffs against the Boston Bruins. The Sabres won the game 3-2 in double overtime, with Barrasso making an incredible 46 saves. Despite his young age, Barrasso was already one of the best goalkeepers in the league, as evidenced by his stellar performance in that game.
Fact 2: Olympic Gold Medalist
In 1984, Tom Barrasso was selected to play for the US ice hockey team in the Winter Olympics held at Sarajevo. His outstanding performances in the games helped lead the US to a surprise gold medal. Barrasso was only 18 years old at the time, making him the youngest player ever to win a gold medal in ice hockey. He is undoubtedly one of the greatest goalkeepers to have played for US ice hockey.
Fact 3: Twice Vezina Trophy Winner
The Vezina Trophy is awarded annually to the NHL’s best goaltender as voted by the general managers of the league’s teams. Tom Barrasso won this award twice, in 1984 and 1985, becoming one of the earliest players to win it. His superb performances for the Buffalo Sabres helped them reach the playoffs twice in a row, and he was instrumental in their success.
Fact 4: The Only American-Born Goalie to Win a Stanley Cup as a Starter
Tom Barrasso led the Pittsburgh Penguins to the Stanley Cup title in the year 1991 and repeated the feat in 1992. He was the starting goaltender for the team in both championship seasons. He was the only American-born goaltender in NHL history to win a Stanley Cup as a starter until Tim Thomas of the Boston Bruins won it in 2011.
Fact 5: Over 300 Wins In NHL
During his illustrious career, Tom Barrasso played for seven NHL teams and accumulated over 300 wins. He became one of the few goaltenders in the history of the game to achieve this milestone. He also played in over 750 NHL games, making him one of the most durable and reliable goaltenders in the history of the game.
FAQs
Q1. What team did Tom Barrasso play for the longest?
A1. Tom Barrasso played for the Buffalo Sabres for seven seasons, making over 350 appearances for the team.
Q2. How many times has Tom Barrasso won an Olympic gold medal?
A2. Tom Barrasso has won one Olympic gold medal, which he won in 1984 while playing for the US ice hockey team.
Q3. Has Tom Barrasso ever coached an NHL team?
A3. Yes, Tom Barrasso has coached an NHL team. He served as an assistant coach for the Carolina Hurricanes between 2011 and 2014.
Q4. Which NHL team did Tom Barrasso win the Stanley Cup with?
A4. Tom Barrasso won the Stanley Cup twice with the Pittsburgh Penguins in the years 1991 and 1992.
Q5. How many saves did Tom Barrasso make during his youngest player to win a playoff game achievement?
A5. Tom Barrasso made a staggering 46 saves during his achievement as the youngest player to win a playoff game.
Q6. Was Tom Barrasso the only American-born goaltender to win a Stanley Cup?
A6. Tom Barrasso was the only American-born goaltender to win a Stanley Cup as a starter until Tim Thomas of the Boston Bruins won it in 2011.
Q7. How many NHL teams did Tom Barrasso play for during his career?
A7. Tom Barrasso played for seven NHL teams during his career: the Buffalo Sabres, Pittsburgh Penguins, Ottawa Senators, Carolina Hurricanes, Toronto Maple Leafs, St. Louis Blues, and the Tampa Bay Lightning.
Conclusion
Tom Barrasso’s career as a professional ice hockey goaltender was legendary. He set numerous records and achieved several milestones, including being the youngest player to win a playoff game, a Stanley Cup winner, and an Olympic gold medalist. He won many individual awards during his career as well, including the Vezina Trophy twice. His place in the history of the sport is undeniable.