Former Detroit Red Wings holds the record for the youngest goalie to ever play in the NHL
Harry Lumley's legacy as a Detroit Red Wings goaltender is one of the most remarkable and enduring in NHL history.
At just 17 years old, Harry Lumley set records that still stand today. Due to the current rules requiring players to be at least 18 years old to play in the NHL, these records will likely remain unbroken.
Harry Lumley's NHL debut on December 19, 1943, at 17 years and 38 days, made him the youngest goaltender in league history. Despite the Detroit Red Wings' 6-2 loss to the New York Rangers in his first game and a subsequent game in which he allowed seven goals, Harry Lumley's age-defying debut was the start of a historic career. His record as the youngest goalie in the NHL is unbreakable under the current league rules.
During the 1944-45 season, Harry Lumley made history, becoming the youngest goaltender to win an NHL game (at 18 years, 26 days) and the youngest to post a shutout (at 18 years, 64 days). His accomplishments didn't stop there; he led the Detroit Red Wings to the Stanley Cup Final as a teenager, becoming the first teenage goalie to appear, win, and post a shutout in a Cup Final series. He even recorded back-to-back shutouts in that series, solidifying his place in hockey history.
Harry Lumley was also known for his superstitions and unique on-ice style, which included using his stick aggressively to protect his crease. His quirks and exceptional skill made him a memorable figure in the annals of hockey.
The enduring nature of Harry Lumley's records highlights how extraordinary his achievements were, especially considering that in the modern NHL, no goalie younger than 21 appeared in a game during the 2023-24 season, with only six under the age of 23. Harry Lumley's early success in the NHL remains a testament to his talent and the unique circumstances of his era.
Source: DetHockeyNow
Red Wings Lumley Holds Several NHL Records
Source: NHL
Harry Lumley Stats
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Do you think the rules will change someday, and will we see a younger goalie than Harry Lumley play in the NHL? | ||
| Yes | 11 | 28.2 % |
| No | 28 | 71.8 % |
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