Calder Trophy winners with Minnesota ties
June 30, 2021 at 3:03AM
Minnesota's history with the Calder Trophy includes five winners with ties to the state:
Mike Karakas, 1935-36: The Eveleth native signed as a free agent by Chicago, he had a 1.85 goals-against average and nine shutouts in a 21-win season.
Cully Dahlstrom, 1937-38: Born in Minneapolis, the Blackhawks center finished his first season with 10 goals and nine assists in 48 games and helped Chicago win the Stanley Cup.
Frank Brimsek, 1938-39: Born in Eveleth, Minn., the Bruins goalie had six shutouts in first 10 games, won Vezina Trophy with a 1.56 GAA and led league with 33 wins.
Danny Grant, 1968-69: Set NHL rookie record with 34 goals, added 31 assists in the North Stars' second season. He was traded to Detroit after six seasons and scored 50 goals for the Red Wings in 1974-75 season.
Bobby Smith, 1978-79: North Stars center recorded 30 goals and 44 assists in winning the Calder. He later scored 93 points in helping the franchise reach the Stanley Cup Final in 1981.
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Minnesota’s bench scored 50 points, including a team-leading 18 points from graduate transfer Annika Stewart, showcasing the depth that coach Dawn Plitzuweit promised.
