For a while, at least, Andrew Hammond, aka “The Hamburgler,” was the talk of the town … and the NHL.
For Ottawa Senators fans, the 2014-15 NHL season is one that few will ever forget. With both goaltenders Craig Anderson and Robin Lehner sidelined with injuries, the team turned to an unfamiliar face. Insert the “Hamburglar” Andrew Hammond.
Heading into the season, Hammond was a virtual unknown. The Ottawa Senators previously signed the undrafted goalie to a two-year, entry-level contract to play for their AHL affiliate, the Binghamton Senators. The Sens were coming off an unsuccessful campaign in which the team failed to qualify for the playoffs.
With Hammond forced into action and the team seemingly out of the playoff picture, expectations were limited. But nobody told Hammond. After dropping his first start, “The Hamburglar” went on a tear. Hammond won his next five starts, including a shutout against the Anaheim Ducks. Following a shootout loss to Minnesota, the Cinderella run appeared to be over.
The “Hamburglar” had other plans. The result was another dominant win streak – NINE games.[
The Sens faithful affectionately displayed their appreciation, showering the ice with burgers! Hammond concluded his incredible 2014-15 campaign with a record of 20-1-2, 1.79 GAA, 0.941 save %, and three shutouts.
The Senators miraculously clinched a playoff berth but were eliminated by Montreal in six games. Hammond received a three-year contract extension for his efforts, but his storied success soon ended. Plagued by injuries, Hammond never regained the form that won him the adoration of a city.
Since the 2014-15 season, Hammond has only appeared in 31 NHL games, going 7-14-4. The fabled magic of the “Hamburglar” had run its course.
Hammond is currently under contract with the Minnesota Wild organization but is unlikely to see significant playing time. His best playing days may be long behind him. But for a while, at least, Hammond was the talk of the town … and the NHL.
