Jacques Plante was a legendary hockey goaltender who is widely considered to be one of the greatest of all time. He was born in Shawinigan, Quebec in 1929 and began his professional career in 1953 with the Montreal Canadiens. During his time with the Canadiens, Plante won six Stanley Cups and was a seven-time Vezina Trophy winner, which is awarded to the best goaltender in the NHL each season.

Plante was known for his innovative style of goaltending, which included the use of a mask to protect his face from pucks. He was the first goaltender to wear a mask in a professional game, and his pioneering use of the mask revolutionized the position. He was also known for his quick reflexes and his ability to anticipate the movements of opposing players.

Plante was also known for his leadership and mentorship of younger goaltenders. He was a mentor to many of the goaltenders who followed him, including Ken Dryden and Patrick Roy. He was also a strong advocate for the rights of goaltenders, and he was a vocal critic of the NHL's rules and regulations.

Plante retired from the NHL in 1975, but he continued to play in various minor leagues until his retirement in 1978. He was inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 1978 and his number, 1, was retired by the Montreal Canadiens in 1995.

Plante's legacy as one of the greatest goaltenders of all time is undeniable. He revolutionized the position with his pioneering use of the mask, and he was a mentor to many of the goaltenders who followed him. He was a strong advocate for the rights of goaltenders, and his legacy will continue to live on for generations to come.

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