For Canadian goalie Allan Bester, the 1984–85 season was a turning point because it was his first NHL season with the Detroit Red Wings. Before making the jump to the NHL, Bester, a gifted goalie, had spent several seasons honing his skills in the minor leagues after being selected by Detroit in the 1981 NHL Draft. His first chance to establish himself as an NHL starter came during the 1984–85 season.
Although Bester’s primary responsibility with the Red Wings that season was to support experienced goalie Bob Sauve, he still had a number of chances to show off. He played in 36 games for Detroit, recording a.884 save percentage and a 3.95 goals-against average (GAA). Even though the Red Wings were not a very good club at the time, Bester’s goals in goal were a highlight. He remained in the debate as one of the league’s rising goalies because of his tenacity, fast reflexes, and ability to make crucial saves.
Bester’s efforts offered promise for the team’s future in goal despite the team’s difficulties throughout that season. Bester was seen as a young player with the potential to become a reliable NHL goalie, even if the Red Wings finished close to the bottom of the standings. Sadly, despite his occasional displays of genius, Bester’s career never quite reached the heights that many had expected.
Additionally, Bester’s 1984–85 season paved the way for his subsequent NHL career. He would later pursue a career as a journeyman, playing for a number of teams, but the 1984–85 campaign