Mark spent his first season, 1988-1989, in the NHL with Los Angeles Kings, and roomed with Wayne Gretzky at the time. I have not been able to find any photos of Fitzy in a Kings' uniform, so if any of you out there have any, please contact me.
The New York Islanders
Mark was with the Islanders for five seasons, from 1988-89 t0 1993-94. In 1990, Mark came down with a rare blood disorder and was unable to play for most of the season. He battled back, however, and in 1992 was awarded the Masterson Trophy for perserverance and dedication to hockey.
Tennis, anyone?
The Masterson Tropy
The Florida Panthers
Mark was the Panthers' second choice in the 1993-94 Expansion Draft, right behind John Vanbiesbrouck. For five seasons, 1993-94 to 1997-98, Fitzy provided solid backup for Florida's other team, and had many stellar moments, including an awesome penalty shot save against Pittsburgh's Jaromir Jagr.
Fresh from the Islanders
With his new helmet
A rare happy SP moment
"Ooooo, this ice is cold!"
The Tampa Bay Lightning
In January of 1998, the Panthers traded Mark Fitzpatrick and Jody Hull to the Tampa Bay Lightning in return for Dino Ciccarelli and Jeff Norton. Suddenly thrust into the No. 1 spot after 5 seasons of backing up Vanbiesbrouck, Mark gave the Bolts the solid netminding they were lacking. However, the Bolts' defense repeatedly left Mark and rookie goalie Zac Bierk alone behind the blue line, and the Bolts' 1997-98 season came to a crashing end.
Clearing his crease
I love a feisty goalie!
"Hey, ref, see this stick?"
The Chicago Blackhawks
What do you think I am, a miracle worker? He was just traded yesterday!!!
