Without a doubt, Ken Dryden was a giant among his peers. At 6’4” he stood above most goaltenders of his era, both physically and statistically and, his feats put him in a class of his own.

Dryden launched his stellar eight-season career with the Canadiens in March of 1971. Called up from the Voyageurs in the American Hockey League, he won all six games he starting in the regular season, including a memorable showdown against the Buffalo Sabres, at the Forum, when he and Dave became the first brother combination to face one other in an NHL game.

Surprised by his own admission, Dryden is called upon to face the powerful Boston Bruins in the first round of the playoffs. Against all odds, the Canadiens oust the Bruins, and go on to win their 17th Stanley Cup while Dryden earns the Conn Smythe Trophy as the playoffs Most Valuable Player.

In 1971-72, Dryden makes an encore presentation this time as the NHL Rookie of the Year thus becoming the first player in NHL history, and the only one to this day, to win the Calder Trophy after earning the Conn Smythe.

Dryden will play a key role in the Canadiens next five Stanley Cup wins, including four in a row between 1976 and 1979, before announcing his retirement following his latest triumph.

Dryden’s list of awards also includes five Vezina Trophies and as many All-Star Games. Ken Dryden was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 1983. His No. 29 was retired on January 29, 2007.