By then an accomplished goaltender, Connell played five seasons in the OCHL, principally for the St. Brigid's hockey team, upon being recruited by future Senator and Hall of Famer King Clancy.

[7][8] During that season, Connell was involved in the first 0–0 tie in NHL history, on December 14 against the Hamilton Tigers, with Jake Forbes as the opposing goalie.

[9] The 1926 season saw Connell's definite ascension to stardom, as he more than doubled his NHL record total of shutouts to 15, and set a new mark for the lowest goals-against average in league history with 1.12.

An unusual incident took place during the season in a game against the New York Americans, owned by notorious bootlegger "Big Bill" Dwyer.

After a disputed call, Connell clashed with a goal judge who was reputed to be a hit man for Dwyer's mob, and required police protection after the game to leave the arena.

[18] He was pulled from a December 26 game against the Rangers after allowing four goals, and was incensed enough to announce his retirement, reportedly telling coach Cy Denneny, "Your move was the height of stupidity.

"[19] After fully recovering from his injuries in January 1934, the Montreal Maroons reportedly were interested in acquiring Connell's rights, but only on a loan basis.

[23] During that season, Connell allowed the first penalty shot goal in league history—it was newly instituted in that season—to Ralph Bowman of St. Louis on November 13.

[29] Connell's 1.91 career goals against average (GAA) is the lowest for any goaltender in the history of the National Hockey League, a record he has held for over ninety years.