The Bobby Hull Auction - May 2004
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 5/25/2004
Absolutely sensational old fibreglass mask was worn by popular goaltender Michel "Bunny" Larocque when he broke into the NHL with the Canadiens at the start of the 1973-74 season. That was the year that future Hall-of-Famer Ken Dryden left the team following a contract dispute and the trio of Larocque, Wayne Thomas and Michel Plasse handled the goaltending duties. Interesting is the fact that number "31" in blue marker on the inside of the mask was scribbled out and replaced by number "1". Research reveals that Bunny wore number "31" during his rookie season and then took over number "1" the following year when he won the back-up job behind the returning Dryden. Although he had to play second fiddle to Dryden for years, Larocque was solid when called upon, compiling an impressive 144-46-31 won-loss-tied record while with the Habs, as well as being part of four straight Stanley Cup championship teams. The fibreglass mask has been preserved in excellent condition with all original elastic and leather straps still intact. Painted white, the mask has the letters "CSP" painted in black on the forehead and the same letters appear on the back strap in black marker, along with "31". We believe the letters represent his children's initials. There's a little wear at the bottom of the mask. A piece is missing at the top and there's a small crack. This likely led Larocque to discard this particular mask and switch to a new one. A superb find, this is the first time that we've had such a mask to offer for auction. Several photos picturing Bunny wearing this mask are available. From a grand time in Montreal Canadiens history!
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