The Ultimate Hockey Card Set - Cards #87 & #146

Thanks to everyone who commented and provided some feedback on my first Ultimate Hockey Card Set post. There were definitely some great suggestions thrown out there, a few of which I own, a few of which I don't. Time now to add two more cards to the set, including the first horizontal card:

Card #146 - 1973-74 Topps - Cesare Maniago

This card has been a favorite of mine since I acquired it on the cheap at a card show a while back, and I was reminded of it while reading a great post on Diamond Cuts and Wax Stains recently. Like the Dave Keon card featured in that post, this card captures an exciting in-game moment. I love all the little details in the photo, from the referee's old school skate to the low-cut boards behind the net. Between Maniago's mask and the way he's clearing out the crease he looks like someone trying to frighten a child on Halloween. Looks like the ref's got his arm up for a delayed call as well. The green border kind of jives with the North Stars sweaters and ties the card together. So much going on here, this is my favorite card from the 73-74 set (admittedly I have very few).

Card #87 - 2006-07 Parkhurst Auto - Willie O'Ree

There might be room to argue over the Maniago card above, but this one would be tough to vote against. While he may not have enjoyed the most successful NHL career, breaking the color barrier is reason enough to be included in the Ultimate Hockey Set. Doesn't hurt that he plays for the team I now root for, and has stayed involved with the game throughout all these years. Throw in the fact that it's an on-card auto, and including this one becomes a no-brainer.

We're up to 6 cards in the set now, which can be viewed here.