21st National Hockey League All-Star Game

Death of Bill Masterton

The game took place under a somber atmosphere, as two days earlier Minnesota North Stars player Bill Masterton was checked by two Oakland Seals players, lost his balance, and struck his head on the ice; he died the following day. Masterton's death sparked debate over mandatory helmet use in hockey, with opinions divided. Gordie Howe stated he would not wear a helmet but encouraged younger players to do so, while Bobby Hull said he was seriously considering one.

Stafford Smythe argued that helmets should be compulsory. During the game itself, only J. C. Tremblay, who had worn a helmet all season, and Brian Conacher, who did so because of Masterton's death, wore helmets. The NHL did not mandate helmets until 1979, and players under contract before June 1, 1979, could sign a waiver to go without; Craig MacTavish was the last helmetless All-Star Game participant, appearing in 1996. On the day of the All-Star Game, the National Hockey League Writers' Association proposed a trophy in Masterton's honor, and by season's end the league established the Bill Masterton Memorial Trophy, awarded annually to the player exemplifying dedication, perseverance, and sportsmanship. As an aside, Toronto coach Punch Imlach and his wife celebrated their silver wedding anniversary that night.

The game

Because Toronto goaltender Johnny Bower was injured ten days before the game, he was replaced by minor league goaltender Al Smith. NHL president Clarence Campbell indicated that the following year would introduce an East-versus-West format, allowing the game to be moved to different cities. This was also the last All-Star Game in which teams were selected based on the previous season's First and Second All-Star Teams, a change supported by the absence of rookie Bobby Orr from the prior year's game and the shift to a mid-season date. Orr suffered a broken collarbone in the third period after a hit by Pete Stemkowski.