Steve Mason
The young netminder who stopped the world and brought hope back to Nationwide Arena.
Steve Mason is a legendary goaltender who defined an era of hope and resilience for the Columbus Blue Jackets during the late 2000s and early 2010s. Drafted by Columbus in the third round (69th overall) of the 2006 NHL Entry Draft, he quickly evolved from a backup into the franchise's primary netminder, becoming synonymous with the team's first playoff appearance in franchise history.
Quick Facts
- Affiliation
- Columbus Blue Jackets (2008–2013)
- Key achievement
- Vezina Trophy Winner (2008-09)
Lore & Background
The 2008-09 season remains the pinnacle of his tenure in Columbus. As a rookie, Mason posted historic numbers, winning the Vezina Trophy and leading the Blue Jackets to their first-ever playoff berth. His performance cemented his place in club history as one of the greatest goaltenders to ever wear the blue jersey, though he was never selected to an NHL All-Star Game during his time with Columbus.
Reader's Guide
Steve Mason played for the Columbus Blue Jackets from 2009 to 2013, serving as the team's undisputed number one goaltender. His playing style was characterized by exceptional lateral quickness and an aggressive approach to blocking shots deep in the crease. His greatest achievement occurred during the 2012-13 season, where he posted a franchise-record save percentage and helped lead Columbus to its first playoff series victory since 2009. This performance earned him his only NHL All-Star selection and a Vezina Trophy nomination. Mason's legacy in Columbus is that of the player who broke the curse of futility for a time. He remains one of the most beloved figures in franchise history, remembered for bringing excitement and stability to the net during a transformative period for the club.
Did You Know?
- He does not hold the Blue Jackets' single-season record for save percentage; that mark belongs to Sergei Bobrovsky.
- Mason became the youngest goaltender in franchise history to record a shutout as a rookie in 2008-09.
More in Legendary Players
Elsewhere in Columbus Blue Jackets
Spotted an error? Know more?
Reader corrections go straight into our review queue. Suggest an edit · How this site is sourced