Early Career and Development

Howard began his ice hockey journey playing for the Westport Rideaus in the Eastern Ontario League. During his time in the under-16, under-17, and under-18 levels, he posted a combined record of 22-11-1. He then advanced to collegiate hockey at the University of Maine, where he played as a goaltender for the Maine Black Bears men’s ice hockey team. His performance at Maine was exceptional, setting school and league records in goals-against average (GAA) and shutouts.

In the 2003 NHL Entry Draft, Howard was selected by the Detroit Red Wings while still playing for Maine. His consistent performance made him one of the top goalies in college hockey at the time.

Detroit Red Wings and AHL Start

Jimmy Howard’s professional career began in the 2005–2006 season with the Grand Rapids Griffins of the American Hockey League (AHL), the Detroit Red Wings' affiliate. Though he primarily played in the AHL, he was periodically called up to the NHL. His rookie AHL campaign was one of his strongest, showcasing promising stats that marked him as a future NHL starter.

During the Red Wings' 2007–2008 Stanley Cup-winning season, Howard played fewer than four games and did not meet the requirements to have his name engraved on the Cup. However, he was included in the team’s championship photo and given the opportunity to spend a day with the trophy.

Rise to Starting Goaltender

Howard secured the starting goaltender position for the Red Wings during the 2009–2010 season. He delivered an outstanding performance, ranking among the NHL’s top five in goals-against average and save percentage. His efforts earned him a nomination for the Calder Memorial Trophy, awarded to the league’s top rookie.

Career Highlights and Injuries

In the 2011–2012 season, Howard reached a milestone by recording 30 wins before the All-Star break, highlighting a peak period in his career. However, injuries began to affect his playing time, starting with a broken finger and followed by recurring groin strain issues. Despite these setbacks, the Red Wings demonstrated their belief in his abilities by offering him a six-year, $31.5 million contract extension in 2013.

Although he was named to the 2015 NHL All-Star Game roster, Howard was unable to participate due to injury. Over the next season, his performance saw a decline, impacted by continued injury struggles. Nevertheless, in April 2016, he notched his 22nd career shutout for the Red Wings in a game against the Philadelphia Flyers—cementing his legacy within the franchise.