Steve Mason
| Birthday: 1988-05-29 | Position: G |
| Eligible for draft: 2006 | Catches: Right |
| Drafted: 2006 | Height: 6-3 |
| Acquired: Trade with Columbus, 2013 | Weight: 186 lbs. |
Probability of Success
- B
History
Something of an unproven commodity with only 16 games of experience in the OHL, goaltender Steve Mason was nonetheless one of the most intriguing netminders available in the 2006 NHL Draft. Selected by the Jackets in the third round, 69th overall, of that draft on the strength of a concerted scouting effort in Mason’s rookie campaign backing Adam Dennis in the London net, the Ontario native attracted a good deal of attention from several NHL clubs, which is a testament to his attractive combination of size, technique and intangibles.
Headed back to assume the starting mantle in London for the 2006-07 season, Mason already acquitted himself well in front of the organization during the Blue Jackets Prospect Development Camp. Placed into a rotation with the two other primary candidates to eventually spell Leclaire in the Columbus net, Popperle and LaCosta, Mason showed the poise and technical ability that drew interest from 15 NHL front offices at the 2006 draft combine.
2007-08: Mason started out the season with Columbus, which is a strong testament to his play in training camp. Mason was sent back to London, where he continued his usual strong play with the Knights. In December, Mason was named to Canada’s U20 WJC team. Mason led Canada to a gold medal, winning the tournament MVP and Top Goaltender awards in Pardubice, Czech Republic. Mason returned to a new junior team, having been traded to the Kitchener Rangers. Unfortunately Mason was injured during the playoffs and could not play for the Rangers during the Memorial Cup.
Talent Analysis
Mason is a big goalie who plays sound positionally. He is a mature, confident and extremely poised goaltender, capable of making big saves at the key times in games. Mason has a strong work ethic, and thinks the game well. He's got good lateral mobility, and plays the puck extremely well.
Future
Mason has graduated from the prospect ranks and is now the #1 goaltender for the Columbus Blue Jackets.
Mason was dealt by the Columbus Blue Jackets to the Philadelphia Flyers in a 2013 NHL trade deadline deal.
