No, actually he didn't. If I remember correctly (someone else can look it up, if they wish), Mason's run of outstanding play, and it was truly outstanding, was well short of an entire season. He was called up part way into the season after an injury to the starter, played very well, then faded in the end. In fact, the collapse of his game at the end of the season nearly cost the team their only playoff appearance and his performance in the Detroit series was very weak. His amazing number of shutouts during his strong period of play were what gained him the Vezina attention.
Bob played very well in his rookie season, was very ineffective as the backup in Philly the next year, and was very strong in the KHL at the beginning of this year. Add in what he's done in the past month and I have no doubt that he's got the makings of an NHL starter. The #1 we'd all hope for? Too soon to tell, but the talent and drive seem to be there, his athleticism and work ethic appear to be just as advertised by his fans in Philly.