Ray Emery was a Canadian professional ice hockey goaltender who played in the National Hockey League (NHL) for 11 seasons. He was known for his aggressive playing style and his ability to make acrobatic saves. Emery began his professional career in 2001 with the Sault Ste. Marie Greyhounds of the Ontario Hockey League (OHL). He was drafted by the Ottawa Senators in 2001 and made his NHL debut in 2003.
Emery played for several teams throughout his career, including the Ottawa Senators, Philadelphia Flyers, Anaheim Ducks, and Chicago Blackhawks. He won the William M. Jennings Trophy in 2013 as a member of the Blackhawks, which is awarded to the goaltender(s) who allow the fewest goals against during the regular season. Emery also helped lead the Senators to the Stanley Cup Finals in 2007, where they lost to the Anaheim Ducks.
Emery was known for his fiery personality both on and off the ice. He was involved in several on-ice altercations throughout his career, including a highly publicized fight with Buffalo Sabres goaltender Martin Biron in 2007. Emery was also known for his off-ice antics, including a 2011 incident where he was arrested for assault and later pleaded guilty to charges of uttering threats and assault with a weapon.
Despite his success on the ice, Emery struggled with injuries throughout his career. He underwent surgery for a hip injury in 2010 and missed the entire 2010-2011 season. He also suffered a career-threatening injury in 2015 when he was diagnosed with avascular necrosis, a condition that causes bone tissue to die due to a lack of blood supply. Emery underwent surgery to repair the condition, but was forced to retire from professional hockey in 2016.
Emery's career was marked by both success and controversy. He was a talented goaltender who was known for his aggressive playing style and his ability to make acrobatic saves. However, his fiery personality and off-ice antics often overshadowed his on-ice accomplishments. Despite his struggles with injuries and personal issues, Emery remained a beloved figure in the hockey community. He passed away in 2018 at the age of 35.
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