Cesare Maniago, Canadian ice hockey player

Cesare Maniago: A Distinguished Canadian Goaltender and Minnesota North Stars Icon

Born on January 13, 1939, Cesare Maniago is a prominent Canadian former professional ice hockey goaltender whose career left a notable mark in the National Hockey League (NHL). Known for his durability and steady presence in the net, Maniago became a familiar figure throughout a significant era of professional hockey.

While Maniago's extensive NHL career included stints with several franchises, the predominant and most impactful portion of his professional journey was spent with the Minnesota North Stars. He joined the North Stars in their inaugural season (1967-68) as part of the league's major expansion, quickly establishing himself as a foundational player for the nascent franchise.

Cesare Maniago's Enduring Legacy with the Minnesota North Stars

Cesare Maniago's tenure with the Minnesota North Stars extended across multiple seasons, during which he consistently served as the team's primary goaltender. His commitment and impressive longevity with the franchise are clearly reflected in the North Stars' historical records. Maniago remarkably stands second all-time in games played in goal for the Minnesota North Stars. This significant statistic underscores his invaluable contribution to the team's foundational years, showcasing his reliability and the high volume of critical starts he provided for the club during a period when they were striving to establish their identity in the league.

Beyond Minnesota: A Comprehensive NHL Career and Achievements

Before his celebrated time with the Minnesota North Stars, Cesare Maniago honed his skills within the Toronto Maple Leafs organization and also saw action with the storied Montreal Canadiens. His diverse professional experience across these teams provided him with a comprehensive understanding of the demanding NHL landscape. Later in his career, he also briefly played for the Vancouver Canucks, further illustrating his journey through various teams within the league.

Throughout his career, Maniago earned recognition for his consistent play and calm demeanor under pressure. His strong performances led to his selection for the NHL All-Star Game on two occasions, in 1970 and 1972, a testament to his standing among the league's top goaltenders. These selections highlight his ability to perform at an elite level and secure his place as one of the key figures in goaltending during the late 1960s and early 1970s.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cesare Maniago

When was Cesare Maniago born?

Cesare Maniago was born on January 13, 1939, establishing him as a Canadian professional ice hockey goaltender.

Which NHL team did Cesare Maniago play the most games for?

Cesare Maniago played the majority of his distinguished National Hockey League (NHL) career for the Minnesota North Stars, where he was a central figure for the expansion franchise.

What is Cesare Maniago's significant record with the Minnesota North Stars?

Cesare Maniago ranks second all-time in games played as a goaltender for the Minnesota North Stars, a notable achievement reflecting his longevity and importance to the team during its formative years.