Andrew Hammond, affectionately known as “The Hamburglar,” made waves in the NHL during his remarkable stint with the Ottawa Senators. He achieved his first career shutout just two games after joining the team, leading to a 3-0 win against the Anaheim Ducks on February 25, 2015. Remarkably, the very next day, he secured his second shutout in a thrilling 1-0 victory over the Los Angeles Kings, showcasing his emerging talent.
Hammond’s outstanding performance earned him the NHL’s first star for March 2015, where he boasted a stellar 10-1-1 record, a .930% save percentage, and a 2.09 goals against average. His impressive stats culminated in a sensational 20-1-2 record by the end of the regular season, alongside an incredible .941% save percentage and a 1.79 goals against average. These achievements propelled the Senators from being 10 points behind to clinching a wild card spot with 99 points.
Fans eagerly embraced Hammond, celebrating his game-winning heroics by throwing hamburgers onto the ice after victories, a tradition that became iconic during his tenure.
After a diverse career spanning across 67 games with teams, including the Senators, Colorado Avalanche, Montreal Canadiens, and New Jersey Devils, Hammond announced his retirement from the NHL on December 19, 2022. His legacy remains unique, as the Senators have yet to experience a goaltending run quite like Hammond’s remarkable season.
On a positive note, fans now have the opportunity to witness Hammond’s return to Ottawa. Tickets for the event are available, promising to be a nostalgic experience for many who remember his exceptional journey in the league.