Bill Masterton

Bill Masterton (born William John Masterton on August 13, 1938) was a Canadian–American professional ice hockey centre who played in the National Hockey League (NHL) for the Minnesota North Stars in 1967–68.

He is the only player in NHL history to die as a direct result of injuries suffered during a game as the result of massive head injuries sustained following a hit during a January 13, 1968 contest against the Oakland Seals.

Bill Masterton's death sparked a long-running debate in hockey about the merits of wearing helmets, as few NHL players did so in that time. Despite several efforts to mandate their use, it was 11 years before the NHL made them compulsory for all new players beginning in the 1979-80 NHL season.

In his memory, the NHL created the Bill Masterton Memorial Trophy which it has awarded since 1968 to a player who demonstrates perseverance and dedication to hockey.

The North Stars retired his jersey #19, an honor that followed the franchise when it later relocated to Dallas, Texas.