Best Hockey Checks Of All Time
Body checking is one of the most important aspects of hockey. It is a legal maneuver where a player uses his body to separate his opponent from the puck. It's an art in itself and when done correctly, it can change the momentum of the game. Here, we take a look at some of the best hockey checks of all time.
1. Scott Stevens Hit on Eric Lindros
Scott Stevens was a legendary defenseman who played for the New Jersey Devils. He was known for his devastating hits and physical style of play. One of his most memorable hits was on Eric Lindros in the 2000 playoffs. Stevens caught Lindros with his head down and delivered a bone-crushing hit that sent him flying through the air. It was a clean hit, but Lindros suffered a severe concussion and was forced to leave the game. The hit set the tone for the rest of the series and the Devils went on to win the Stanley Cup.
2. Bobby Orr's Flying Goal
Bobby Orr is one of the greatest players of all time. He revolutionized the game with his speed and offensive prowess. In the 1970 Stanley Cup finals, Orr scored one of the most iconic goals in hockey history. With the game tied 3-3 in overtime, Orr took the puck from behind his own net and rushed up the ice. He beat a defender and then leaped over a sprawling goalie and scored the game-winning goal. The image of Orr flying through the air with his arms raised is still a symbol of the game today.
3. Aaron Ekblad Crushes Evander Kane
Aaron Ekblad is a defenseman for the Florida Panthers. In a game against the Buffalo Sabres, he delivered a massive hit on Evander Kane. Kane was skating with the puck and Ekblad stepped up and leveled him with a shoulder-to-shoulder hit. Kane was knocked out cold and had to be stretchered off the ice. It was a legal hit, but it sparked a heated debate about player safety and the use of hitting in the game.
4. Scott Stevens Hit on Paul Kariya
Scott Stevens makes another appearance on this list with his hit on Paul Kariya in the 2003 Stanley Cup finals. Kariya was a star forward for the Anaheim Ducks and was known for his skill and speed. Stevens caught him with his head down and delivered a massive hit that knocked Kariya unconscious. He was able to get up and score a goal later in the game, but it was an iconic hit that will always be remembered.
5. Brad Marchand's Takedown of Daniel Sedin
Brad Marchand is a pesky winger for the Boston Bruins. In the 2011 Stanley Cup finals, he delivered a controversial hit on Daniel Sedin of the Vancouver Canucks. Sedin was trying to get to the net and Marchand took him down with a low-bridge hit. Sedin's head hit the ice and he was temporarily knocked out. Marchand was not penalized on the play, but it sparked a heated debate about player safety and the use of hitting in the game.
Conclusion
In conclusion, these are just some of the best hockey checks of all time. Body checking is an integral part of the game and when done correctly, it can be a game-changer. Whether it's a bone-crushing hit or a well-placed check, these players have shown us that body checking is an art form that requires skill and precision.
