Mike Richter is a former professional ice hockey goaltender who played for the New York Rangers for his entire career. He was born on September 22, 1966, in Abington, Pennsylvania, and grew up in Bucks County. He attended the University of Wisconsin-Madison, where he played for the Badgers hockey team.
Richter was drafted by the New York Rangers in the second round of the 1985 NHL Entry Draft. He made his NHL debut in the 1989-90 season and quickly established himself as one of the league's top goaltenders. He was known for his quick reflexes, excellent positioning, and ability to make acrobatic saves.
Richter played for the Rangers for 14 seasons, from 1989 to 2003. During that time, he helped lead the team to the playoffs 10 times and won the Stanley Cup in 1994. He was also a three-time NHL All-Star and won the Vezina Trophy as the league's top goaltender in 1994.
In addition to his success with the Rangers, Richter also represented the United States in international competition. He played in three Olympic Games, winning a silver medal in 2002. He also played in the World Cup of Hockey and the World Championships.
Richter retired from professional hockey in 2003 due to injuries. He finished his career with a record of 301 wins, 258 losses, and 73 ties, with a goals-against average of 2.89 and a save percentage of .904. He remains one of the most beloved players in Rangers history and is widely regarded as one of the greatest American-born goaltenders of all time.
After retiring from hockey, Richter became involved in environmental activism and founded the nonprofit organization Healthy Planet Partners. He also served on the board of directors for the National Resources Defense Council and was a member of the President's Council on Physical Fitness and Sports. In 2008, he was inducted into the United States Hockey Hall of Fame.
🏒