Best Hockey Highlights Of All Time
Hockey is one of the most loved sports in North America, and it is no wonder that there are many historic moments that have made it to the highlight reel. From miraculous saves to game-winning goals, here are some of the best hockey highlights of all time
The Goal Heard Round The World
The 1980 Winter Olympic Games was a defining moment for ice hockey, as the United States faced off against the heavily favored Soviet Union in the medal round. The game was a nail-biter, but the moment that will forever be etched into hockey history came in the third period, when Mike Eruzione scored the game-winning goal. Al Michaels, the commentator for the game, famously exclaimed, “Do you believe in miracles? Yes!”
The Save
During the 1972 Summit Series between Canada and the Soviet Union, Canadian goalie Ken Dryden made a save that is still talked about today. With just over two minutes left in the game, the Soviet Union had a 2-on-1 breakaway, but Dryden made a sprawling save to keep the score tied. Canada went on to win the game and the series, but it was Dryden’s save that is remembered as one of the greatest moments in hockey history.
The Golden Goal
The 2010 Winter Olympic Games in Vancouver saw the United States and Canada face off in the gold medal game. The game was tied at 2-2 in overtime when Sidney Crosby scored the game-winning goal for Canada. The goal, which has come to be known as “The Golden Goal,” secured Canada’s second consecutive gold medal in men’s ice hockey.
The Broken Stick Goal
During the 1993 Stanley Cup Finals, the Montreal Canadiens were facing the Los Angeles Kings in Game 2. With the game tied at 1-1 and less than two minutes to play, Canadiens defenseman Eric Desjardins broke his stick on a shot attempt. Instead of heading to the bench to get a new stick, Desjardins skated back into his own zone, took a pass, and scored a goal to give Montreal the lead. The Canadiens would go on to win the game and eventually the Stanley Cup.
The Miracle On Ice
The 1980 Winter Olympic Games were not expected to be a strong showing for the United States ice hockey team, but they shocked the world by defeating the heavily favored Soviet Union in the medal round. The victory, which has come to be known as the “Miracle on Ice,” was a defining moment for American hockey and remains one of the greatest upsets in sports history.
The Bobby Orr Goal
During the 1970 Stanley Cup Finals, the Boston Bruins faced off against the St. Louis Blues. In overtime of Game 4, Bruins defenseman Bobby Orr scored the game-winning goal, which has become one of the most iconic moments in hockey history. Orr was tripped as he scored the goal, and the photo of him flying through the air has become one of the most famous sports photos of all time.
These are just a few of the many unforgettable moments in hockey history. From historic goals to miraculous saves, the sport of hockey has provided us with some of the most exciting and heart-stopping moments in sports history.