Hextall joined the National Hockey League upon being drafted by the Philadelphia Flyers in the 1982 entry draft.
A proficient skater and puck handler, Hextall was the most aggressive and active goalie the League had ever seen. He used his skills much like a third defenseman, seeking out and playing the puck out of his own end, especially on the penalty kill.
During his 1986-1987 rookie season, Hextall led his team to the Stanley Cup Playoffs and received both the Conn Smythe Trophy for playoff excellence and the Vezina Trophy for best goalie. He also became the first goalie in League history to score a goal on the opposing team. In 1989 he again shot the puck the full length of the ice to be the first goalie to score a goal during a playoff game.
Outspoken and short tempered, Hextall racked up the most penalty
minutes of any previous goalie. He was suspended for twelve games
during the 1989-1990 season for repeatedly hitting Chris Chelios with his blocker.
"Hextall is probably the best goaltender I've ever played against in the NHL. Just when you think you'll bombard him, he comes up with the big saves."
Wayne Gretzky
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