Tonight, a new Stanley Cup winner will be crowned, one way or another. It's game 7.
Epic comeback or historic collapse, depending on who you root for.
So. Much. Drama.
This is what sports are all about. With only a few hours to go before game time, we need something to do. Why not relive the most iconic moments in Stanley Cup history?
Be sure to share with a friend on Facebook and tell us what we got right and wrong. Here we go!
1. Bobby Orr's Flying Goal (1970)
Bobby Orr's legendary goal in the 1970 Stanley Cup Finals is etched in hockey history. In overtime of Game 4 against the St. Louis Blues, Orr scored the Cup-winning goal, diving through the air after being tripped, capturing the Boston Bruins' first championship in 29 years. The image of Orr soaring parallel to the ice, with his arms outstretched in celebration, remains one of the most iconic sports photographs of all time.
2. Gretzky's High Stick Goal (1988):
Wayne Gretzky's controversial high stick goal in the 1988 Stanley Cup Playoffs against the Calgary Flames is remembered for its disputed legality. In Game 6 of the Smythe Division Final, Gretzky's goal stood despite the high stick infraction, ultimately leading the Edmonton Oilers to victory. The incident sparked debate and highlighted the intensity and drama of playoff hockey, adding another layer to Gretzky's storied career.
3. The Miracle on Manchester (1982):
The Los Angeles Kings' improbable comeback in Game 3 of the 1982 playoffs against the Edmonton Oilers is known as the “Miracle on Manchester.” Trailing 5-0 at the end of the second period, the Kings rallied to tie the game in regulation and then won 6-5 in overtime. This stunning turnaround, led by Daryl Evans' game-winning goal, remains one of the greatest comebacks in NHL history.
4. Steve Yzerman's Double-Overtime Goal (1996):
Steve Yzerman's dramatic double-overtime goal in Game 7 of the 1996 Western Conference Semifinals against the St. Louis Blues is a defining moment in Detroit Red Wings storied history. Yzerman's blistering slapshot from the blue line clinched the series and propelled the Red Wings toward their first Stanley Cup in 42 years. The goal solidified Yzerman's reputation as a clutch performer and reminds us of the thrill of sudden-death playoff hockey.
5. Patrick Roy's Wink (1993):
Patrick Roy's memorable wink during the 1993 Stanley Cup Finals became a symbol of confidence and dominance. Playing for the Montreal Canadiens against the Los Angeles Kings, Roy winked at Tomas Sandstrom after making a crucial save, signaling his focus and determination. The Canadiens went on to win the series in five games, with Roy earning the Conn Smythe Trophy as playoff MVP, cementing his place among the all-time great goaltenders.
6. Ray Bourque's First Stanley Cup (2001):
After a stellar 22-year career, Ray Bourque finally hoisted the Stanley Cup with the Colorado Avalanche in 2001. Acquired by the Avalanche from the Boston Bruins late in his career for a chance at a championship, Bourque's emotional celebration after defeating the New Jersey Devils in Game 7 of the Finals captured the hearts of hockey fans worldwide. His perseverance and dedication made his long-awaited victory an iconic moment in NHL history.
7. The Chicago Blackhawks' Comeback (2013):
The Chicago Blackhawks' thrilling comeback against the Detroit Red Wings in the 2013 Western Conference Semifinals showed the kind of heart this team had. Facing a 3-2 series deficit, the Blackhawks won Game 6 in overtime and Game 7 to advance. Their ability to rally under pressure showcased their depth and determination, setting the stage for their eventual Stanley Cup victory that season.
8. Alex Ovechkin's First Stanley Cup (2018):
The road to a Stanley Cup final was long and winding for Alex Ovechkin. He finally got it done in 2018 when he led the Washington Capitals to their first championship in franchise history. Ovechkin's passion and leadership were on full display throughout the playoffs, culminating in a series-clinching victory over the Vegas Golden Knights. His iconic celebration with the Cup marked a career-defining moment for Ovechkin and a long-awaited triumph for Capitals fans.
You gotta love Ovechkin telling fans “Get some beers & start celebrating!”
A man of the people.
9. The Goalie Goal (1989):
Ron Hextall of the Philadelphia Flyers made history in the 1989 playoffs by becoming the first goalie to score a goal in a playoff game. Hextall's goal, an empty-netter against the Washington Capitals, showcased his puck-handling skills and added a unique chapter to playoff lore. His achievement remains a rare and remarkable feat in NHL history, highlighting the unpredictability and excitement of postseason play.
10. The “Fog Game” (1975):
Game 3 of the 1975 Stanley Cup Finals between the Buffalo Sabres and the Philadelphia Flyers became known as the “Fog Game” due to dense fog that enveloped the ice at the Buffalo Memorial Auditorium. Despite poor visibility, play continued, and the Flyers emerged victorious in overtime, with Andre “Moose” Dupont scoring the game-winning goal. The surreal atmosphere of the game added an unforgettable element to this Stanley Cup moment.
There you have it. The Top 10 Most Iconic Moments in Stanley Cup Playoff History. After this historic game 7 tonight, there may be a new addition to the list!
