1959-60

• Jacques Plante of the Montreal Canadiens becomes the first goalie in 30 years to wear a mask, donning the new equipment November 1 against the New York Rangers. He had started to wear a mask during practice in 1957 following a sinus operation. Many in the NHL frowned at Plante's move, citing traditions in place at the time. Of course, goalies playing without masks today is unfathomable -- and against NHL rules.

• The Canadiens win their record fifth straight Stanley Cup, sweeping the Toronto Maple Leafs in the Final.