NHL Goalie Honors Autistic Brother With Custom Mask Design

Brandon Bussi had everything an NHL rookie could dream of: a record-setting season, a starting position with the Carolina Hurricanes, and overnight fame. But the symbols painted on his goalie mask tell the story of what matters most to him.

The 27-year-old goalie started designing masks with autism awareness symbols during his sophomore year at Western Michigan University. His younger brother Dylan is autistic and nonspeaking, and Bussi wanted to honor their unique relationship in a visible way.

"I wanted to make that first mask representing autism because it meant something to me personally," Bussi said. What started as a private tribute has grown into a powerful platform for raising awareness.

Bussi collaborated with renowned mask artist David Gunnarsson to create his NHL design. Each detail reflects his experiences with Dylan and the autistic community. The Swedish artist was moved by the project, noting he also has people close to him with autism.

Growing up with Dylan wasn't always easy. Bussi admits he sometimes felt embarrassed as a kid when people stared at his brother. But those challenges shaped him into who he is today.

Dylan communicates through tablets and gestures, understanding what's said to him but unable to respond in traditional ways. The frustration of that barrier taught Bussi patience and empathy at a young age.

Why This Inspires

Bussi's journey from unknown college player to NHL record-breaker proves that staying true to your values pays off. He set an NHL record with 21 wins through his first 25 career games, yet he remains focused on using his platform for good.

"[Dylan] made me grow as a person," Bussi said. "It forced me to mature at a young age and see the world differently." That perspective keeps him grounded even as his career soars.

The goalie updates his mask designs regularly to reflect changing autism symbols and his ongoing connections with the community. Each new pattern tells another chapter of his story with Dylan.

Bussi downplays the pressure of his rapid rise to NHL success. He focuses on each day rather than worrying about maintaining his position. That mindfulness comes directly from lessons learned caring for his brother.

His masks spark conversations everywhere he plays. Fans and fellow players ask about the designs, giving Bussi opportunities to share Dylan's story and educate others about autism.

Artist Gunnarsson joked that Bussi was so invested in the creative process that "the day he retires from hockey, he can come work with me here in Sweden." The goalie knew exactly how he wanted each detail to look.

Brandon Bussi proves that the biggest wins happen when athletes use their platforms to shine light on causes bigger than the game itself.