Armand Mondou, a Canadian ice hockey forward born on June 27, 1905, in Yamaska, Quebec, carved out a notable career primarily with the Montreal Canadiens. His professional journey, spanning from 1926 to
1940, was marked by significant achievements, including two Stanley Cup championships and a unique place in National Hockey League (NHL) history. Mondou's dedication to the Canadiens was evident, as he played his entire NHL career with the storied franchise, becoming a key defensive forward during a golden era for the team.
Early Career and Entry into the NHL
Armand Mondou began his professional hockey career in 1926 with the Providence Reds, a team in the Canadian-American Hockey League (Can-Am). This initial period allowed him to hone his skills before making the leap to the sport's highest level. After two years with the Reds, Mondou's talent was recognized, leading to a significant move that would define the rest of his playing days.
In 1928, Mondou was traded to the Montreal Canadiens of the National Hockey League in exchange for Léo Gaudreault. This trade marked the beginning of a long and impactful tenure with the Canadiens, where he would become an integral part of their success. His debut in the NHL in 1928 set the stage for a career characterized by consistent performance and team dedication.
Stanley Cup Success and Defensive Prowess
As a defensive-minded winger, Mondou played a crucial role in the Canadiens' triumphs. He was considered one of the main contributors to the "Habs'" victory in the 1930 Stanley Cup Final, where they defeated the Boston Bruins. This championship marked a significant milestone in his career and for the team.
The Canadiens' success continued into the following season, with Mondou once again being a part of the championship squad. In the 1931 Stanley Cup Final, Montreal emerged victorious against the Chicago Black Hawks, securing back-to-back titles. Throughout his time with the Canadiens, Mondou was often associated with teammates Leroy Goldsworthy and Georges Mantha, forming a formidable unit that consistently helped the team qualify for the playoffs.
A Historic Penalty Shot and Career Longevity
Mondou's career also includes a unique historical footnote: he was the first NHL player to attempt a penalty shot. This groundbreaking moment occurred on November 10, 1934, during a game against the Toronto Maple Leafs, shortly after the NHL introduced the penalty shot rule for the 1934-1935 season. Although his shot was saved by his former teammate, George Hainsworth, it cemented Mondou's place in the league's record books.
Despite his defensive style of play and tenacity, Mondou maintained a disciplined approach to the game. Over 386 games played for the Canadiens, he accumulated only 99 penalty minutes, demonstrating his awareness of the rules. From the 1936-1937 season onward, he split his playing time with the New Haven Eagles of the American Hockey League, an affiliate of the Canadiens. Mondou's professional career concluded after the 1940 season, following a participation in a 1939-1940 All-Star Game organized in tribute to Babe Siebert, the recently appointed head coach of the Canadiens who had tragically drowned. He passed away on September 13, 1976, leaving behind a legacy as a two-time Stanley Cup champion and a pioneer in NHL history.
