By the Numbers: The Significance of #41 in NHL Hockey

Some jersey numbers feel legendary the moment they’re worn. Others earn their place the hard way—night after night, season after season. In NHL history, number “41” belongs firmly in that second group. It’s never been flashy or iconic on its own, but for hockey fans, it has become closely tied to goalies who showed up, did the work, and stayed in the fight longer than most.

There’s no rule that says goalies gravitate toward number “41”, but over time it started popping up in familiar places: on the backs of netminders trusted with heavy workloads and long careers. These were the guys coaches leaned on when points mattered and schedules got ugly.

Jaroslav Halák: Built on Consistency

Jaroslav Halák is one of the best examples of how far steady goaltending can take you. Drafted late and rarely hyped, Halák spent 17 seasons in the NHL wearing number “41” for much of the ride. He wasn’t dramatic in net, but he was efficient, calm, and hard to beat when he was locked in. Halák finished with 295 career wins and 53 shutouts, and twice shared the William M. Jennings Trophy as part of stingy defensive teams (2012 & 2020). Whether starting or splitting time, he earned trust everywhere he played.

Mike Smith: Edge, Confidence, and Workload

Mike Smith brought a different personality to number “41”. He played with fire—aggressive, vocal, and always involved in the play. Known for his puck-handling and willingness to challenge shooters, Smith regularly faced high shot totals and didn’t flinch. His years with the Coyotes and Flames featured long stretches as a true workhorse, and he wrapped up his career just shy of 300 wins alongside 44 shutouts. Smith’s version of number “41” came with swagger and compete level.

Craig Anderson: The Definition of Longevity

When people think of durability in goal, Craig Anderson’s name comes up quickly. Wearing number “41” for much of his career, Anderson played more than two decades in the league and crossed the 300-win mark—something only a handful of goaltenders have ever done. His time in Ottawa stood out, where he provided stability through changing rosters and tough seasons. Anderson didn’t rely on hype; he relied on preparation and experience.

Jocelyn Thibault: An Early Standard

Before number “41” became familiar in the crease, Jocelyn Thibault helped set the tone. A first-round pick with a 14-year NHL career, Thibault was known for reliability and durability. He also owns a unique piece of league history, earning the final goaltending wins at both the Montreal Forum, Maple Leaf Gardens, and the Capital Centre—moments that connect his career to the NHL’s past.

41: A Number That Earned Its Place

No ceremonies, no mystique—just results in the NHL crease. Thanks to these four goaltenders, number “41” has come to represent reliability, resilience, and trust. For hockey fans, that’s a legacy that speaks for itself.