1957-58 Topps 51 Harry Howell Hockey Card (Front)
1957-58 Topps 51 Harry Howell Hockey Card (Back)
Card Notes
The trivia cartoon asks “Has any goalie on Stanley Cup winner won MVP honors?” With the answer being “No”. Roy Worters of the New York Americans was the first goalie to win the Hart Trophy, taking the honours in 1928-29. However, the Americans lost in the first round with the Boston Bruins eventually winning the Cup over the New York Rangers in the final.
Chuck Rayner of the Rangers won the Hart in 1949-50. New York went seven games in the final before falling to the Detroit Red Wings – with game seven decided in double overtime, no less.
Al Rollins of the Chicago Blackhawks was next in 1953-54. The Hawks won just 12 games that year and finished last, 37 points behind the next closest team. Rollins won the MVP honours for being the subject of target practice for the other five teams, all season long.
There was potential in 1961-62 with the Montreal Canadiens finished easily in first place during the regular season. Jacques Plante was awarded the Hart Trophy. However, the Habs were upset by the Chicago Blackhawks in the opening round.
The next goalie to win the Hart would not be until Dominik Hasek of the Buffalo Sabres took two in a row in 1996-97 and 1997-98. Like Jose Theodore and Carey Price that would follow, Hasek would not lead his team to a Stanley Cup championship.
So, the trivia question from this 1957-58 Topps Harry Howell hockey card is as true today as it was over 60 years ago…