The list of goalies who have appeared in 500 National Hockey League games is a relatively short one. It includes fewer than 70 players in total -- many of whom are all-time greats, only a handful of whom are active today.
Cam Ward makes 500th NHL appearance
Through plenty of ups and downs, injuries and slumps, the veteran goaltender has been a lasting presence in Carolina.
Grant Halverson/Getty Images
Now, it includes Cam Ward.
The Stanley Cup- and Conn Smythe Trophy-winning netminder reached this milestone on Tuesday when he took the ice against the Philadelphia Flyers. Ward, a member of the Carolina Hurricanes organization for the entirety of his professional career, is the franchise leader in games (500), wins (240) and shutouts (22).
"I'm thankful to play this many games in this league and with this organization." --Cam Ward #Ward500 pic.twitter.com/rsavlt0oFi
— Carolina Hurricanes (@NHLCanes) February 25, 2015 This season has been a surprisingly good one for the 30-year-old from Saskatoon. Although Ward was expected by many to take on a limited role behind Anton Khudobin, his strong play has thrust him back into a starting job under new coach Bill Peters. And, with solid numbers thus far, he's proved capable of rebounding from several disappointing and injury-riddled campaigns.
Ward has been especially good of late, allowing three or fewer goals in 16 of his last 18 appearances. He went on to beat the Flyers on his big night, 4-1, and has surrendered only 2.12 goals per game since Nov. 26.
See More:
More in: NHL Tuesday: Canucks hold off Bruins
