In the NHL, bizarre moments are a part of the sport’s rich history. This countdown of the “Top 20 Weirdest Moments in NHL History” takes us through some of the most jaw-dropping events that defy logic and make us question, “Did that just happen?”
We start with the story of David Ayres, a 42-year-old Zamboni driver who unexpectedly became a hero as an emergency backup goalie for the Carolina Hurricanes in 2020, blocking 8 out of 10 shots and securing a victory. Scott Foster, an accountant who briefly played goalie for the Chicago Blackhawks in 2018, also made headlines by saving all 7 shots he faced, helping his team win.
Next, we delve into the mishaps of legendary goalie Patrick Roy. In one instance, Roy skated the puck past center ice, resulting in a penalty. Later, he raised his glove in celebration only for the puck to slip out and end up in the net. Marty Brodeur experienced luck rather than skill when a shot clanged off the post twice, avoiding a goal.
We also highlight rare feats like Linus Ullmark’s full-ice goal and Patrik Stefan’s infamous missed empty-netter in 2007. The Anaheim Ducks’ three goals in 37 seconds and Andrew Shaw’s failed headshot attempt further add to the list of oddities.
Other strange moments include Mark Pysyk’s puck-in-pants goal, a mysterious fart sound during a broadcast, and John Scott’s surprising All-Star Game MVP performance. The 1974 prank of drafting a non-existent player, Taro Tsujimoto, and the foggy 1975 Stanley Cup Final game, along with bizarre traditions like the Rat Trick and octopus tosses, further demonstrate the NHL’s unpredictability.
The countdown concludes with a wild 1979 brawl involving players, fans, and security, setting the gold standard for bizarre NHL incidents.
