Mike Karakas facts for kids

Michael George Karakas (born November 13, 1910 – died May 2, 1992) was a professional ice hockey goaltender from Canada. He played for six seasons in the National Hockey League (NHL). Mike Karakas played for both the Chicago Black Hawks and the Montreal Canadiens. He was special because he was the very first NHL goaltender who was born and trained in America.

Mike Karakas: A Hockey Star

Mike Karakas was a talented ice hockey player. He was known for his skills as a goaltender. A goaltender is the player who tries to stop the puck from going into their team's net. Karakas played in the NHL for many years.

Winning the Stanley Cup

One of the biggest moments in Mike Karakas's career was winning the Stanley Cup. He won this famous trophy with the Chicago Black Hawks. This happened during the 1937–38 NHL season.

During the playoffs, something unexpected happened. Before the final games against the Toronto Maple Leafs, Mike broke his toe. This was a big problem for the team. Another player, Alfie Moore, took his place for the first game.

However, after that first game, Alfie Moore was not allowed to play anymore. The Black Hawks then lost the next game. Even with his broken toe, Karakas bravely returned to play. He wore a special boot with a steel toe to protect his foot. He helped his team win the next two games. This amazing effort led the Black Hawks to win their second Stanley Cup!

A Hall of Famer

In 1973, Mike Karakas received a great honor. He was named an original member of the United States Hockey Hall of Fame. This special place is located in his hometown of Eveleth, Minnesota. Being in the Hall of Fame means he is remembered as one of the best players in hockey history.

• Mike Karakas's career stats at The Internet Hockey Database
• Mike Karakas player profile at NHL.com