Biography
Pascal Leclaire, born on November 7, 1982, in Repentigny, Quebec, is a former Canadian professional ice hockey goaltender. He was drafted 8th overall by the Ottawa Senators in the 2001 NHL Entry Draft after a standout junior career with the Montreal Rocket in the QMJHL. Leclaire made his NHL debut during the 2003-2004 season, showcasing his potential with strong performances throughout his early years in the league.
During his NHL career, Leclaire is best known for his tenure with the Columbus Blue Jackets, where he had a breakout season in 2007-2008, earning the team's first All-Star Game selection as a goaltender. That season, he recorded 24 wins and a league-leading six shutouts, establishing himself as one of the top goaltenders in the NHL. His performance helped the Blue Jackets secure their first-ever playoff appearance in franchise history, solidifying his legacy within the organization.
Leclaire's career was ultimately hindered by injuries, leading to his retirement from professional hockey in 2012. Over his career, he played a total of 134 NHL games, with a record of 52 wins, 33 losses, and 18 overtime losses, alongside a goals-against average of 2.88 and a save percentage of .909. Despite his short but impactful career, Leclaire remains a notable figure in the conversation around goaltending achievements in Columbus and Canadian hockey history.