The transformation of David Rittich into a starting goaltender for the Calgary Flames has been one of the biggest stories of the season thus far. Through 51 games, Rittich is one of the biggest reasons for the Flames’ climb up the standings. Could he parlay his superb season into a Vezina Trophy?
The award
The Vezina Trophy is awarded to the goaltender who is “adjudged to be the best at this position.” It’s named after Georges Vezina, star goaltender for the Montreal Canadiens from 1911-25. He came down with tuberculosis prior to the 1925-26 season and soon passed away, so the Habs donated the trophy the following season to be given to the league’s top netminder.