5. Mike Palmateer
Mike Palmateer, the acrobatic and often erratic goaltender for the Toronto Maple Leafs and Washington Capitals, was a captivating figure during the late 70s and early 80s. While known for his spectacular saves and unconventional style, Palmateer also had a reputation for being fearless and willing to engage in the rough stuff.
With 174 career penalty minutes, Palmateer demonstrated that he wouldn’t shy away from confrontation. He was an aggressive goalie who loved to challenge shooters and wasn’t afraid to leave his crease to confront an opponent. He often played without a mask in his early career, adding to his daredevil image.
One memorable incident involved Palmateer dropping the gloves with Boston Bruins tough guy Terry O’Reilly. It was a testament to Palmateer’s bravery (or perhaps foolishness) to take on one of the league’s most feared enforcers. While he didn’t win the fight, he certainly earned the respect of his teammates and opponents for his willingness to stand up for himself.
It wasn’t his only one, however. He fought Islanders’ Garry Howatt and Capitals’ Eddie Johnstone.
Lanny McDonald, a former teammate of Palmateer’s, once said: “Palmateer was nuts, but in the best way possible. He’d throw himself in front of anything, and if you tried to get in his face, he’d be right back in yours. He played with a fire that few goalies ever had.” Palmateer was a true maverick who brought an exciting, and at times nasty, dimension to the goaltending position.
