Every NHL Goalie Goal,Ranked
The NHL has seen a surge of unlikely goal scorers lately. Alex Nedeljkovic made history on January 20th, 2025, becoming the frist goaltender to record a goal and an assist in the same game. His feat highlights the fact that the 2024-25 season is the first to ever feature multiple goalie goals. Actually, we’ve had four goalie goals in less than two years, with Linus Ullmark scoring in February 2023 and Tristan Jarry in November of the same year. Incredibly, the Penguins are now the first team to have two different goalies score goals.
It’s a great time to look back at every goalie goal in NHL history. For this list, a “goalie goal” is defined as a shot from the length of the ice into an empty net.
12. Chris osgood, march 6, 1996
Desperate times call for drastic measures! This goal came late in a game between the powerhouse Detroit Red Wings and the less-than-stellar Hartford Whalers. Though the game was almost over, it marked the first goalie goal in almost seven years and the first one not scored by Ron Hextall, reminding everyone that goalies could, in fact, score.
Osgood skillfully knocked down and controlled the puck with his stick before taking a powerful shot.
The commentator’s call lacked enthusiasm, simply stating, “You don’t see that too often.” Perhaps he wasn’t ready for the rarity of the moment.
The crowd reacted decently,but there wasn’t a sense of shock or anticipation as Hextall’s era of goalie goals was a distant memory.## Top 10 Goalie Goals: From Firsts to Flukes
It’s a thrilling rarity: the goalie scores! These unlikely feats of athleticism are cherished moments in hockey history. Today, we delve into the Top 10 goalie goals, ranked in a balanced scorecard assessing the situation, style, play-by-play call, crowd reaction, celebration, and bonus wows.
10. Tristan Jarry – November 30, 2023
Jarry’s goal was a presentation of pure skill and poise. With over a minute left in the game, the Penguins goalie pulled off a textbook power-play goal, the first of its kind as the 1980s.
**Total score: 32/50
11. Evgeni Nabokov – March 10,2002
Nabokov etched his name in hockey history by scoring the first-ever power play goalie goal. Trailing Vancouver 3-0, Nabokov capitalized on a Vancouver major penalty with a swift shot.
**Total score: 32/50
let’s be clear: every goalie goal is awesome. They’re a delightful mix of skill, luck, and sheer audacity. From power plays to mid-game desperation, these rare moments electrify arenas and leave fans chanting long after the buzzer sounds.
Goalie Goals Ranked: From Bench Celebrations to Crowd Reactions
the rarity of a goalie goal in hockey makes it one of the most exciting moments in the sport.It’s a display of skill, audacity, and pure chance. Throughout history, several netminders have surprised fans and opponents alike by venturing out of their crease and finding the back of the net.
Breaking Down the Best, Ranked
Here’s a look at some of the most memorable goalie goals, dissecting the context, style, celebration, and overall impact of each:
Ranking Criteria:
Each goalie goal is evaluated on several factors, including:
- Situation: How critical was the goal to the game?
- Style: Was it a highlight-reel snipe or a lucky bounce?
- Call: Did the announcers add to the excitement?
- Reaction: How did the crowd and the players respond?
- Celebration: Did the goal scorer go all-out or play it cool?
Memorable moments
10.Mika Lehto, March 12, 2006
Lehto’s goal was a product of sheer desperation. Trailing by a goal with seconds left and the goalie pulled for an extra attacker, Lehto found himself in an offensive zone scramble. He chipped the puck in.
9. Pekka Rinne, January 9, 2020
Rinne, a veteran known for his puck-handling skills, waited seven years for his chance to score a goal, contributing to a late-game victory. His shot was straightforward, leaving little room for debate.
8. Kevin Poulin, January 17, 2012
After helping to create a blocked shot possibility, Poulin was presented an open net. With a quick wrist shot, he connected, leading his Islanders to a
3-2 victory over the Carolina hurricanes.
The Thrill of the Unexpected
Whether it’s a last-minute miracle or a calculated move, goalie goals remain a captivating aspect of hockey. They remind us that anything is possible on the ice, and that even the most unexpected hero can rise to the occasion.
Goalie Goals: Ranking the NHL’s Rarest Feats
scoring a goal as a goaltender in the NHL is about as rare as finding a unicorn riding a unicycle. It requires an improbable combination of skill, timing, and a hefty dose of luck. But when it happens, it’s a moment that sparks instant pandemonium and etches itself into hockey lore.
Since the rule change allowing goalies to be pulled for an extra attacker in the late stages of a game, we’ve witnessed several of these remarkable feats. So, let’s dive into some of the most memorable goalie goals, ranking them based on their style, situation, call, reaction, and celebration.
1. Martin Brodeur,July 4,1997
This legendary moment happened during the playoffs against the Flyers. Brodeur, known for his puck-handling skills, saw an opportunity and took it.
Situation: A playoff game in the waning moments. The Devils are trailing by a goal.
Style: Brodeur launches a slap shot from his own end that somehow finds the back of the net. The power and accuracy are remarkable. (10/10)
Call: The legendary Doc Emrick nails it with his signature enthusiasm,making the moment even more iconic. (10/10)
Reaction: The crowd erupts in disbelief and joy. brodeur’s reaction, a mix of excitement and disbelief, is priceless.(9/10)
Celebration: Brodeur is mobbed by his teammates as the realization of his unbelievable feat sinks in. It’s pure, unadulterated joy. (9/10)
Total: 47/50
2.Pekka rinne, January 7, 2018
This goal came at a crucial moment for the Nashville predators, fueling their Stanley Cup aspirations.
Situation: A drenchedce game against the Blackhawks.
Style: Rinne takes advantage of a delayed penalty, rushing toward the net with surprising speed. He uses a clever backhand shot for the score.
(8/10)
Call: “He shot it”—simple, effective, and captures the moment’s audacity. (7/10)
Reaction: The crowd goes wild. Rinne’s stoic demeanor cracks into a broad grin. The joy on his teammates’ faces is infectious. (8/10)
Celebration: Rinne is engulfed in a celebratory huddle with his teammates. (7/10)
Total: 37/50
The Most Memorable Goalie Goals in NHL History
The sight of a goalie scoring a goal is a rarity in the NHL, a moment that electrifies fans and captures the unpredictable spirit of the game. From legendary goalie Ron Hextall to modern-day netminder Linus ullmark, these improbable goals have become enshrined in hockey lore.
A Look back at Some Hockey History
Here’s a breakdown of some of the most memorable goalie goals, ranked and analyzed based on various factors like situation, style, call, reaction, celebration, and overall impact.
Ron Hextall’s Historic First
Hextall etched his name in history on April 11, 1989, becoming the first goalie to score a goal in the playoffs. Facing a one-man disadvantage, Hextall took advantage of a loose puck, skillfully maneuvering around the net and burying the puck past the hapless Washington Capitals goalie. His goal, a crucial insurance marker in a pivotal Game 5, cemented his place as a legend among goalies who dared to venture beyond the crease.
Linus Ullmark’s backhanded Beauty
Linus Ullmark added his name to the exclusive list on February 25, 2023, scoring against the Vancouver Canucks. This goal, while not in the playoffs, held its own unique charm. With the Bruins already holding a one-goal lead late in the game, Ullmark employed a remarkable backhand shot from near the opposing goal line, a move rarely seen from goaltenders.
Ranking the Goals
Subscribes to gave each goal a score out of 50 based on specific criteria: Situation, Style, Call, Reaction, Celebrationio, and Bonus Points.
A detailed analysis of each goal, its ancient context, unique features, and scoring breakdown further enriches the reader’s understanding. Pictures and videographic evidence amplify the impact.
Goalie Goals: Ranking the Most Memorable moments
In the world of hockey, witnessing a goalie score a goal is a rare and exhilarating event.
Beyond the sheer improbability, these moments frequently enough feature incredible displays of skill, strategy, and sheer audacity.Here’s a look at some of the most memorable goalie goals in recent NHL history, ranked based on various factors like style, reaction, and overall impact:
### Linus Ullmark’s Sniper Shot
Linus Ullmark’s goal against the Vancouver Canucks on Dec. 17, 2023, epitomizes the excitement and surprise these plays generate. With his team trailing, Ullmark casually skated out to the puck, seemingly uninterested, before unleashing a blistering shot that caught the Canucks entirely off guard. The puck rocketed into the net, stunning the crowd and leaving the Canucks players bewildered. Ullmark’s celebration was equally memorable, becoming the first NHL goalie to perform a bench fly-by.
This goal wasn’t just a random occurrence; it took Ullmark’s season to a new level. He became the first goalie to score a goal in a season he also won the Vezina Trophy, adding another layer of impressiveness to this remarkable feat.
### Alex Nedeljkovic’s Early Strike
On January 17, 2025, Alex Nedeljkovic etched his name in NHL history by scoring a goal against the Buffalo Sabres – with nearly three minutes left in the game. This early strike demonstrated not only Nedeljkovic’s scoring prowess but also his willingness to take risks.
Nedeljkovic’s goal was a product of quick thinking and notable reflexes.He absorbed a hit while surging towards the net, showcasing his determination and athleticism. The goal was celebrated enthusiastically by both Penguins fans and the home crowd, adding to the surreal atmosphere. Nedeljkovic’s unique butt-first celebration perfectly capped off this remarkable moment.
Furthermore, this wasn’t Nedeljkovic’s first foray into goal-scoring.He had a history of finding the back of the net, demonstrating his dedication to this unconventional pursuit.
The Most Iconic Goalies Goals in NHL History
Goalie goals are among the rarest and most exciting events in hockey. They’re a testament to a goalie’s skill and a thrilling surprise for fans. Over the years,several netminders have accomplished this unique feat,creating moments etched in NHL history.
Martin Brodeur’s Playoff Magic: April 17, 1997
when it comes to legendary goalie goals, Martin Brodeur’s name tops the list.His score in the 1997 playoffs against Montreal wasn’t just any goal; it was the second (and still, to this date, the only other) playoff goalie goal ever recorded. The situation itself—Game 1 of the first-round series—adds to its significance.
Brodeur’s approach was a blend of skill and improvisation. Seeing an opportunity as a puck went around the net, he confidently corralled it, almost losing it momentarily before regaining control.Dropping to one knee, a classic goal scorer’s move, he unleashed a shot that found the back of the net.
The legendary doc Emrick was on the call, adding another layer of iconic status. The eruption of the home crowd was immense, although momentarily distracted by a scuffle on the ice. This distraction, however, provides a comedic backdrop to Brodeur’s own reaction.
Left alone by his teammates in the immediate aftermath, Brodeur’s celebration was pure, unadulterated joy. His dance, described as a toddler trying to contain excitement, and backing into his net with a childlike glee, remains one of the most heartwarming celebrations in hockey history.
Mike Smith’s Buzzer Beater: October 19, 2013
mike Smith’s goal on October 19, 2013, brought a rare combination of drama and suspense to the ice.
Coming only a few weeks into the season, this wasn’t just any goal; it was a game-winning, buzzer-beater that instantly became a highlight reel classic.
Smith’s catch-and-release was remarkable considering the limited time he had. The entirety of the play was fraught with suspense, with the crowd holding its breath to see if the puck would cross the line before the buzzer sounded. When it finaly did,
the euphoria was palpable.
the commentary captured the electric atmosphere perfectly, blending genuine excitement with a hint of confusion as they awaited confirmation of the goal.The definitive replay was met with an excited “She’s in boys!” sealing the moment’s greatness.
The home crowd’s reaction, amplified by the
exuberant goal-horn operator, further underscored the spectacle.They were celebrating not only a goal but also a resounding victory secured at the very last moment.
Goalies Scoring Goals: A Look Back at Hockey’s Rarest Feat
Few moments in hockey are as surprising and exhilarating as a goalie scoring a goal. It’s a rare feat, a testament to both skill and audacity. Though uncommon, the occurrence has captivated fans for decades.
Ron Hextall’s Historic First
On December 8, 1987, Philadelphia Flyers goaltender Ron Hextall etched his name in history. With his team holding a pleasant 4-2 lead late in the third period, Hextall seized the opportunity. His calculated shot, complete with a subtle sniper’s leg kick, sailed into the net, making him the first NHL goalie to score a goal.
The crowd erupted in a frenzy, recognizing the historic moment. While Hextall’s teammates rushed onto the ice in celebration, incurring a penalty, Hextall remained calm, later quipping in a press conference, “Before you guys say anything, I was aiming for that corner.”
Hextall’s goal set a standard that goalies have been striving to match ever since.
Martin Brodeur’s Moment in the Sun
In 1999, New Jersey Devils goaltender Martin Brodeur became only the second goalie in NHL history to score a goal. While Brodeur had two other goals credited to him in his career, those were the “last touch” variety, where a teammate’s shot deflected off him and into the net.
this goal, though, was pure Brodeur. with 45 seconds left in a game, Brodeur launched the puck down the ice. It took a lucky bounce, finding the back of the net and igniting a brawl between the two teams.
What are the most notable goalie goals in NHL history and how did they impact the games?
This is a great start to an article about memorable goalie goals in NHL history! You’ve got a strong structure, a compelling introduction, and some detailed descriptions of key moments. Here are some suggestions to take it to the next level:
**Content & Structure:**
* **Expand on the History:**
* You touch on Ron Hextall’s historic first, but delve deeper into the legacy of goalie goals. When did they first start happening? Have there been any other particularly notable ones beyond the ones you’ve mentioned?
* Include a brief overview of the rule changes over time that have made goalie goals more or less likely.
* **Deeper Analysis:**
* For each goal, consider adding:
* **Context:** What was the overall score and situation of the game? How significant was the goal to the outcome?
* **Impact:** How did the goal affect the players, the fans, and the momentum of the game? Did it inspire the team or demoralize the opponent?
* **visuals:**
* Images and video clips are essential for bringing these moments to life. Embed them directly into your article.
* **Quotes:**
* Incorporate quotes from players, coaches, or announcers who witnessed these goals firsthand. Quotes from the goalies themselves would be especially insightful.
* **Ranking System:**
* While your scoring system is a good start,consider making it more obvious. Explain the weighting of each category (situation, style, call, etc.).
* You could also create separate categories for “Most Impactful Goal,” “Most Stylish Goal,” etc.
**Style & Flow:**
* **Transitions:** Use smooth transitions between paragraphs and sections to guide the reader through the article.
* **varied Sentence Structure:** Mix up your sentence lengths and structures to keep the writing engaging.
* **stronger Conclusions:** End each goal description with a sentence that summarizes its significance or impact.
* **Overall Conclusion:** Wrap up your article with a final paragraph that reflects on the enduring appeal of goalie goals and their place in hockey lore.
**Additional Tips:**
* **Fact-Check:** Double-check all dates, scores, and other details.
* **Proofread:** Carefully proofread for any errors in grammar or spelling.
I hope these suggestions help you create a truly memorable article about goalie goals!
