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Top 10 Greatest Moments in MLB Baseball History
Major League Baseball
Major League Baseball (MLB), the oldest major professional sports league in the United States, traces its origins back to the late 19th century. The league was officially formed in 1903 through a merger between the National League (established in 1876) and the American League (established in 1901), uniting two rival baseball circuits. The early days of MLB were defined by the rise of iconic teams and players who helped shape the sport into the “national pastime” it is today. From its humble beginnings, MLB has grown into a global institution, with a rich history filled with legendary moments, intense rivalries, and a deep connection to American culture. Over the decades, the league has evolved, expanding from its original franchises to 30 teams today, spreading the joy of baseball across the United States and beyond.
Greatest Moments in MLB Baseball History
1. Babe Ruth’s Called Shot – 1932 World Series
On October 1, 1932, during Game 3 of the World Series between the New York Yankees and the Chicago Cubs, Babe Ruth stepped up to the plate at Wrigley Field. With tensions high, Ruth made a gesture toward center field, seemingly calling his shot.
After two strikes, Ruth pointed to the outfield, then proceeded to crush the next pitch over the center field wall for a home run, a legendary moment still debated today.
Ruth’s homer was one of two in the game, helping the Yankees win 7-5 and eventually sweep the series.
The “Called Shot” became one of the most iconic moments in baseball lore, further cementing Babe Ruth’s status as one of the greatest players in MLB history.
2. Bill Mazeroski’s Walk-Off Home Run – 1960 World Series
On October 13, 1960, Game 7 of the World Series between the Pittsburgh Pirates and the New York Yankees was tied 9-9 in the bottom of the ninth inning. It had been a hard-fought series, and the Yankees were favored to win.
Pirates second baseman Bill Mazeroski stepped up to the plate and hit a walk-off home run over the left-field wall, securing a 10-9 victory and the Pirates’ first World Series title in 35 years.
Mazeroski’s home run was the first ever walk-off homer to win a World Series.
Mazeroski’s dramatic home run remains one of the most unforgettable moments in MLB history, often hailed as the greatest home run ever hit.
3. Hank Aaron Breaks Babe Ruth’s Home Run Record – 1974
On April 8, 1974, Hank Aaron of the Atlanta Braves faced Al Downing of the Los Angeles Dodgers. Aaron was just one home run shy of breaking Babe Ruth’s all-time record of 714 home runs.
In the fourth inning, Aaron hit a pitch into the left-center-field bleachers for his 715th career home run, surpassing Ruth’s long-standing record.
Aaron finished his career with 755 home runs, a record that stood for over 30 years.
Aaron’s achievement was a monumental moment, not just in baseball but in American culture, as he faced significant racial adversity in his pursuit of the record. His perseverance and talent made him an enduring symbol of greatness in the game.
4. Jackie Robinson Breaks the Color Barrier – 1947
On April 15, 1947, Jackie Robinson made his debut for the Brooklyn Dodgers, becoming the first African American to play in Major League Baseball in the modern era.
Robinson’s first game at Ebbets Field marked a turning point in American sports history, as he successfully broke the color barrier, paving the way for future generations of players.
Robinson went on to win Rookie of the Year in 1947 and was a six-time All-Star over his 10-year career.
Robinson’s courage and talent transformed not only the sport of baseball but also American society, contributing to the broader Civil Rights Movement. His number, 42, is now retired across all MLB teams.
5. Kirk Gibson’s Walk-Off Home Run – 1988 World Series
On October 15, 1988, in Game 1 of the World Series between the Los Angeles Dodgers and the Oakland Athletics, Dodgers outfielder Kirk Gibson, battling injuries, limped up to bat in the bottom of the ninth with two outs.
Facing Hall of Fame closer Dennis Eckersley, Gibson worked the count full, then hit a dramatic walk-off home run into the right-field stands, propelling the Dodgers to a 5-4 victory.
Despite his injury, Gibson’s home run was the only plate appearance he made during the series. The Dodgers went on to win the World Series.
Gibson’s heroic moment became one of the most iconic in World Series history, symbolizing the resilience and unpredictability of baseball.
6. Don Larsen’s Perfect Game – 1956 World Series
On October 8, 1956, in Game 5 of the World Series between the New York Yankees and the Brooklyn Dodgers, Don Larsen took the mound with history ahead of him.
Larsen was flawless, retiring all 27 batters he faced, pitching the first and only perfect game in World Series history.
Larsen threw just 97 pitches, recording seven strikeouts in the Yankees’ 2-0 victory.
Larsen’s perfect game remains one of the greatest pitching performances in MLB history and a defining moment in the World Series’ long and storied tradition.
7. Joe Carter’s Walk-Off Home Run – 1993 World Series
On October 23, 1993, in Game 6 of the World Series between the Toronto Blue Jays and the Philadelphia Phillies, the Blue Jays were down 6-5 in the bottom of the ninth.
With two runners on base, Joe Carter hit a three-run walk-off home run off Phillies closer Mitch Williams, clinching the Blue Jays’ second consecutive World Series title.
Carter’s home run was only the second walk-off home run to win a World Series in MLB history.
Joe Carter’s walk-off remains an indelible part of MLB history, immortalized by the call, “Touch ’em all, Joe, you’ll never hit a bigger home run in your life!”
8. Lou Gehrig’s Farewell Speech – 1939
On July 4, 1939, Lou Gehrig stood before a sold-out crowd at Yankee Stadium for his farewell speech, having been diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), later known as Lou Gehrig’s disease.
Gehrig, fighting back tears, famously called himself “the luckiest man on the face of the earth,” despite the terminal illness that had ended his career.
Gehrig retired with 493 home runs, a .340 batting average, and a record-setting streak of 2,130 consecutive games played.
Gehrig’s heartfelt speech and his legacy of strength and humility continue to inspire fans and players alike, making this one of the most emotional moments in baseball history.
9. Carlton Fisk’s Home Run – 1975 World Series
On October 21, 1975, in Game 6 of the World Series between the Boston Red Sox and the Cincinnati Reds, the game was tied 6-6 in the 12th inning.
Red Sox catcher Carlton Fisk hit a long fly ball down the left-field line. As the ball drifted toward foul territory, Fisk waved his arms, willing it to stay fair. The ball hit the foul pole for a walk-off home run, forcing a Game 7.
Fisk’s home run gave the Red Sox a 7-6 victory, though the Reds went on to win the series in seven games.
Fisk’s iconic arm-waving gesture became one of the most famous moments in World Series history, symbolizing the drama and emotion of October baseball.
10. Cal Ripken Jr. Breaks the Consecutive Games Record – 1995
On September 6, 1995, Cal Ripken Jr. of the Baltimore Orioles played in his 2,131st consecutive game, breaking Lou Gehrig’s long-standing record.
When the game became official in the fifth inning, Ripken took a victory lap around Camden Yards, receiving a standing ovation from fans and players alike.
Ripken went on to play 2,632 consecutive games before voluntarily ending his streak in 1998.
Ripken’s incredible durability and commitment earned him the nickname “The Iron Man,” and his streak is one of the most unbreakable records in sports.
These moments have become legendary within MLB, showcasing the drama, talent, and emotion that make baseball one of the most beloved sports in the world. Each event is etched into the history books, embodying the magic of America’s pastime.
Top 10 Greatest Moments in NFL Football History
National Football League
The National Football League (NFL) began its journey in 1920, originally formed as the American Professional Football Association (APFA). It was created to bring order and organization to professional football, which was then a loosely structured sport with teams scattered across small towns and cities. In 1922, the league was renamed the NFL, and from that point, it began its rise to prominence. The league grew rapidly in popularity through the 20th century, driven by key developments such as the creation of the forward pass, the establishment of the Super Bowl in 1967, and the merger with the American Football League (AFL) in 1970. Today, the NFL stands as the most popular sports league in the United States, known for its rich history, iconic teams, and legendary players, captivating millions of fans each season. Check out the top 10 Greatest moments in NFL history.
Greatest Moments in NFL Football History
1. The Immaculate Reception – 1972 AFC Divisional Playoff
On December 23, 1972, the Pittsburgh Steelers faced the Oakland Raiders in a tense AFC Divisional Playoff game. The Steelers were down 7-6 with only 22 seconds left on the clock.
Quarterback Terry Bradshaw launched a desperate pass, which deflected off a Raiders defender. Just as it seemed the game was over, Steelers fullback Franco Harris scooped the ball just inches from the ground and ran it into the end zone for a miraculous 60-yard touchdown, winning the game.
The Steelers won 13-7, marking their first playoff victory and propelling them toward a 1970s dynasty.
The Immaculate Reception remains one of the most debated and legendary plays in NFL history, solidifying Franco Harris’s place in the Hall of Fame and sparking a new era for the Steelers.
2. The Catch – 1981 NFC Championship Game
On January 10, 1982, the San Francisco 49ers and Dallas Cowboys squared off in the NFC Championship. With less than a minute left, the 49ers were down 27-21, and their Super Bowl dreams were fading.
Quarterback Joe Montana, under immense pressure, scrambled to the right and lofted a pass toward the end zone. Dwight Clark leapt high to make an improbable fingertip catch, tying the game and setting up the extra point for a 28-27 victory.
Montana completed 22 of 35 passes for 286 yards and three touchdowns, with Clark’s catch being the most iconic.
“The Catch” not only propelled the 49ers to their first Super Bowl but also marked the beginning of a dominant decade for the team, establishing Joe Montana as a legendary quarterback.
3. The Helmet Catch – Super Bowl XLII (2008)
February 3, 2008, saw the New York Giants take on the unbeaten New England Patriots in Super Bowl XLII. The Patriots were one win away from a perfect season, and the Giants were the heavy underdogs.
Late in the fourth quarter, on a 3rd-and-5, Eli Manning escaped what seemed like a sure sack, launched the ball downfield, and wide receiver David Tyree made an incredible catch by pinning the ball to his helmet as he fell to the ground. This play set up the Giants’ game-winning touchdown.
The Giants won 17-14, with Tyree’s catch being hailed as one of the greatest in Super Bowl history.
Tyree’s Helmet Catch ended the Patriots’ perfect season and gave the Giants one of the most stunning Super Bowl victories ever. It is still remembered as one of the most clutch plays in NFL history.
4. Super Bowl III – Joe Namath’s Guarantee (1969)
In 1969, the AFL’s New York Jets faced the heavily favored Baltimore Colts in Super Bowl III. Jets quarterback Joe Namath boldly guaranteed a victory, despite the odds.
Namath led the Jets to an unexpected and dominant 16-7 victory, controlling the game with short, accurate passes and smart decision-making.
Namath didn’t throw a touchdown but finished with 206 passing yards, winning the game’s MVP award.
Namath’s guarantee and subsequent victory helped legitimize the AFL and paved the way for the merger with the NFL. This moment cemented Namath as a football legend.
5. The Music City Miracle – 1999 AFC Wild Card Game
On January 8, 2000, the Tennessee Titans played the Buffalo Bills in the AFC Wild Card game. The Bills led 16-15 with only 16 seconds remaining.
On the ensuing kickoff, Titans fullback Lorenzo Neal handed the ball to tight end Frank Wycheck, who then threw a lateral pass across the field to Kevin Dyson. Dyson ran 75 yards down the sideline for a game-winning touchdown.
The Titans won 22-16, completing one of the most improbable plays in NFL playoff history.
The “Music City Miracle” was a stunning finish that launched the Titans to the Super Bowl and remains one of the most thrilling last-second plays in NFL history.
6. Tom Brady’s Super Bowl Comeback – Super Bowl LI (2017)
On February 5, 2017, the New England Patriots faced the Atlanta Falcons in Super Bowl LI. The Patriots trailed 28-3 midway through the third quarter, and a comeback seemed impossible.
Tom Brady led the Patriots on an incredible comeback, scoring 25 unanswered points to force the first-ever Super Bowl overtime. In OT, the Patriots scored the game-winning touchdown, securing a 34-28 victory.
Brady finished with 466 passing yards and two touchdowns, earning his fifth Super Bowl ring and the game’s MVP honors.
Brady’s comeback solidified his status as the greatest quarterback in NFL history, with this game often hailed as the greatest Super Bowl of all time.
7. Walter Payton Breaks the Rushing Record – 1984
On October 7, 1984, Chicago Bears running back Walter Payton broke Jim Brown’s all-time rushing record in a game against the New Orleans Saints.
Payton rushed for 154 yards during the game, surpassing Brown’s record of 12,312 career rushing yards.
Payton finished his career with 16,726 rushing yards, a record that stood for over a decade.
Known as one of the toughest and most complete running backs in NFL history, Payton’s record-breaking performance cemented his legacy as a football icon.
8. Beast Quake – 2011 NFC Wild Card Game
On January 8, 2011, the Seattle Seahawks, as heavy underdogs, faced the defending champion New Orleans Saints in an NFC Wild Card game.
In the fourth quarter, Seahawks running back Marshawn Lynch broke nine tackles on a 67-yard touchdown run, sealing the Seahawks’ 41-36 upset victory. The crowd’s reaction was so intense it caused seismic activity, dubbed the “Beast Quake.”
Lynch rushed for 131 yards and a touchdown, with his epic run becoming the defining moment of the game.
The “Beast Quake” run is one of the most iconic plays in recent NFL history, symbolizing Lynch’s power and the unpredictability of the playoffs.
9. The Ice Bowl – 1967 NFL Championship Game
On December 31, 1967, the Green Bay Packers and Dallas Cowboys played in the NFL Championship Game at Lambeau Field in freezing temperatures, with a wind chill of −48°F.
Late in the game, trailing 17-14, Packers quarterback Bart Starr led an iconic drive, finishing with a game-winning quarterback sneak behind Jerry Kramer’s block, securing a 21-17 victory.
Starr threw for 191 yards and two touchdowns, leading the Packers to their third consecutive NFL Championship.
The Ice Bowl is one of the most legendary games in NFL history, remembered for its brutal conditions and Starr’s game-winning heroics.
10. The Philly Special – Super Bowl LII (2018)
On February 4, 2018, the Philadelphia Eagles faced the New England Patriots in Super Bowl LII. Leading 15-12 just before halftime, the Eagles made a gutsy play call.
On 4th-and-goal, quarterback Nick Foles lined up in the shotgun, but the ball was directly snapped to running back Corey Clement, who flipped it to tight end Trey Burton. Burton then threw a touchdown pass to a wide-open Foles in the end zone, a trick play that shocked everyone.
Foles became the first quarterback to catch a touchdown pass in Super Bowl history, and the Eagles won 41-33.
The “Philly Special” became an instant classic, helping the Eagles secure their first Super Bowl in franchise history and immortalizing Foles and the team’s creativity.
These moments represent the pinnacle of NFL football, filled with drama, skill, and legendary performances that define the sport’s history.
Top 10 Greatest Moments in NBA Basketball History
National Basketball Association
The National Basketball Association (NBA) was founded on June 6, 1946, in New York City as the Basketball Association of America (BAA). Initially formed to organize professional basketball games in large arenas, the league merged with its rival, the National Basketball League (NBL), in 1949, creating what we now know as the NBA. With 17 original teams, the league steadily grew in popularity, thanks to the rise of legendary players like George Mikan, Bill Russell, and Wilt Chamberlain. Today, the NBA is a global sports powerhouse, featuring 30 teams across the United States and Canada. Known for its high-flying dunks, fast-paced action, and incredible athleticism, the NBA has evolved into one of the world’s most-watched sports leagues, producing global icons such as Michael Jordan, Kobe Bryant, and LeBron James. The league’s rich history and culture have made it an integral part of the basketball world. Check out some of the Greatest moments in NBA history.
1. Michael Jordan’s “Flu Game” – 1997 NBA Finals
Game 5 of the 1997 NBA Finals, the Chicago Bulls were tied 2-2 with the Utah Jazz. The stakes were incredibly high for this pivotal game, and Michael Jordan was severely ill with flu-like symptoms.
Jordan, visibly weakened, played 44 minutes and delivered one of the most iconic performances in NBA history, scoring 38 points. Despite his condition, he hit a crucial three-pointer in the final moments, helping the Bulls secure a 90-88 victory.
Jordan finished the game with 38 points, 7 rebounds, and 5 assists.
The “Flu Game” became a symbol of Jordan’s legendary willpower and further solidified his status as the greatest basketball player of all time.
2. Magic Johnson’s Rookie Finals MVP – 1980 NBA Finals
Game 6 of the 1980 NBA Finals, the Los Angeles Lakers faced the Philadelphia 76ers. With Kareem Abdul-Jabbar sidelined by injury, rookie Magic Johnson was forced to take center stage.
Johnson played all five positions throughout the game, leading the Lakers to a 123-107 win. He scored 42 points, grabbed 15 rebounds, and dished out 7 assists, securing the Lakers’ victory.
Johnson’s 42 points are the most by a rookie in NBA Finals history, earning him Finals MVP honors.
This moment launched Magic’s Hall of Fame career and set the foundation for the Lakers’ dominance in the 1980s.
3. LeBron James’ Block in Game 7 – 2016 NBA Finals
Game 7 of the 2016 NBA Finals, the Cleveland Cavaliers were tied 3-3 with the Golden State Warriors. The Cavs were looking to win their first-ever NBA championship.
With less than two minutes remaining and the score tied at 89, LeBron James made a dramatic chase-down block on Andre Iguodala’s layup attempt. This play shifted the momentum, and the Cavaliers went on to win 93-89.
LeBron recorded a triple-double with 27 points, 11 rebounds, and 11 assists.
LeBron’s block became a defining moment in his career, securing the Cavaliers’ first championship and enhancing his legacy as one of the greatest players in NBA history.
4. Wilt Chamberlain’s 100-Point Game – 1962
On March 2, 1962, Wilt Chamberlain played for the Philadelphia Warriors against the New York Knicks in Hershey, Pennsylvania, and delivered the greatest scoring performance in NBA history.
Chamberlain was unstoppable, scoring 100 points, leading his team to a 169-147 victory. Chamberlain hit 36 field goals and 28 free throws to achieve this legendary feat.
Chamberlain’s 100 points in a single game remain an unbroken NBA record.
This game solidified Chamberlain’s place as one of the most dominant players in the history of basketball, and his 100-point record remains a monumental achievement in sports.
5. Ray Allen’s Game-Tying 3 in Game 6 – 2013 NBA Finals
In Game 6 of the 2013 NBA Finals, the Miami Heat were on the verge of elimination, trailing by three points to the San Antonio Spurs with just seconds left.
After a missed three-pointer by LeBron James, Chris Bosh grabbed the rebound and passed it to Ray Allen, who hit a game-tying three-pointer with 5.2 seconds left on the clock. The Heat won the game in overtime, 103-100, forcing a Game 7.
Allen’s clutch shot is considered one of the most iconic in NBA Finals history, helping the Heat win their second consecutive championship.
Allen’s three-pointer is remembered as one of the greatest shots in NBA history, saving the Heat’s season and securing Allen’s legacy as one of the league’s most clutch shooters.
6. Dirk Nowitzki’s Finals MVP – 2011 NBA Finals
The 2011 NBA Finals featured the underdog Dallas Mavericks against the Miami Heat’s star-studded trio of LeBron James, Dwyane Wade, and Chris Bosh. The Mavericks were looking to win their first NBA title in franchise history.
Despite battling illness and facing immense pressure, Dirk Nowitzki delivered clutch performances throughout the series. His game-winning layup in Game 2 and key plays in Game 6 sealed the Mavericks’ victory in six games.
Nowitzki averaged 26 points and 9.7 rebounds throughout the series, earning Finals MVP honors.
Dirk’s performance cemented his legacy as one of the greatest power forwards in NBA history, delivering the Mavericks their first-ever NBA championship.
7. Shaquille O’Neal’s Dominant Performance – 2000 NBA Finals
The 2000 NBA Finals marked the beginning of the Los Angeles Lakers’ three-peat championship run under the leadership of Shaquille O’Neal and Kobe Bryant. The Lakers faced the Indiana Pacers in this series.
O’Neal dominated the Finals, using his physicality to overwhelm the Pacers. In Game 1, he scored 43 points and grabbed 19 rebounds. He averaged 38 points and 16.7 rebounds throughout the series, leading the Lakers to a 4-2 victory.
O’Neal was named Finals MVP, a title he would win for the next two seasons as well.
O’Neal’s dominance in the 2000 Finals solidified him as one of the most unstoppable forces in NBA history, and his leadership contributed to the Lakers’ dynasty in the early 2000s.
8. Dwyane Wade’s Heroics – 2006 NBA Finals
In the 2006 NBA Finals, the Miami Heat faced the Dallas Mavericks. The Heat trailed 0-2 in the series before Dwyane Wade put the team on his back for a historic comeback.
Wade delivered one of the greatest Finals performances, averaging 34.7 points, 7.8 rebounds, and 3.8 assists over the series. His clutch play helped the Heat win four consecutive games and secure their first-ever NBA championship.
Wade was named Finals MVP, capping off a stunning series comeback.
Wade’s performance in the 2006 Finals solidified him as one of the greatest shooting guards in NBA history, and his heroics in this series remain legendary.
9. Allen Iverson’s Crossover on Michael Jordan – 1997 Regular Season
In 1997, Allen Iverson, a rookie for the Philadelphia 76ers, faced off against Michael Jordan’s Chicago Bulls during a regular-season matchup.
Iverson, known for his quickness and ball-handling, famously crossed over Jordan on one play, hitting a jump shot afterward. It became an iconic moment that symbolized Iverson’s fearless attitude, even against the greatest player of all time.
Iverson scored 37 points in the game, but the Bulls won 108-104.
This moment is remembered as Iverson’s arrival as a star in the NBA and is often cited as a changing of the guard, with a young player fearlessly taking on the league’s best.
10. Kawhi Leonard’s Buzzer-Beater – 2019 Eastern Conference Semifinals
In Game 7 of the 2019 Eastern Conference Semifinals, the Toronto Raptors faced the Philadelphia 76ers. The series was tied 3-3, and the winner would advance to the Eastern Conference Finals.
With the game tied at 90 in the final seconds, Kawhi Leonard took a contested jumper over Joel Embiid. The ball bounced four times on the rim before dropping in, securing a 92-90 victory for the Raptors. This was the first Game 7 buzzer-beater in NBA history.
Leonard finished the game with 41 points and hit one of the most iconic shots in NBA history.
Leonard’s shot not only secured the Raptors’ spot in the Finals, but it also propelled them to their first-ever NBA championship, solidifying Kawhi as one of the league’s top players.
These additional moments capture the passion, drama, and excitement that make NBA basketball one of the most thrilling sports in the world. Each event has contributed to shaping the history and legacy of the league, creating memories that continue to inspire players and fans alike.
Top 10 Greatest Moments in NHL History
National Hockey League
The National Hockey League (NHL) was established on November 26, 1917, in Montreal, Quebec, as a successor to the National Hockey Association (NHA), which had disbanded due to internal conflicts. Initially composed of four Canadian teams, the NHL quickly grew in popularity, expanding into the United States in 1924 with the addition of the Boston Bruins. The league has since evolved into one of the premier professional sports organizations in North America, featuring 32 teams across the U.S. and Canada. Over its history, the NHL has become known for its fast-paced, hard-hitting gameplay and has produced some of the greatest athletes in sports history, such as Wayne Gretzky, Gordie Howe, and Bobby Orr. The league’s deep-rooted traditions, legendary rivalries, and iconic moments have made hockey a beloved sport for millions of fans around the world. Check out some of the Greatest moments in NHL history.
Top 10 Greatest Moments in NHL History
1. The Miracle on Ice – 1980 Winter Olympics
On February 22, 1980, at the Lake Placid Winter Olympics, the underdog U.S. men’s hockey team faced the heavily favored Soviet Union during the Cold War era. The Soviets were four-time defending Olympic champions.
Trailing 3-2 entering the third period, the U.S. team scored two goals to take the lead. Goalie Jim Craig made several critical saves to keep the Soviets at bay, and the Americans won 4-3, advancing to the gold medal game.
The Soviet team had outshot the U.S. 39-16, yet the U.S. capitalized on their chances.
The “Miracle on Ice” became a symbol of American resilience and teamwork, inspiring the country and propelling the popularity of hockey in the U.S. The U.S. team went on to win the gold medal, and the moment is still regarded as one of the greatest upsets in sports history.
2. Bobby Orr’s Flying Goal – 1970 Stanley Cup Finals
On May 10, 1970, Game 4 of the Stanley Cup Finals featured the Boston Bruins against the St. Louis Blues. The Bruins were looking to capture their first championship in 29 years.
Early in overtime, Bobby Orr took a pass from teammate Derek Sanderson and shot the puck into the net while being tripped by Blues defenseman Noel Picard. Orr famously soared through the air as the puck hit the back of the net, securing a 4-3 win and the Stanley Cup for the Bruins.
Orr’s overtime goal clinched the Bruins’ 4-0 series sweep and earned him the Conn Smythe Trophy as playoff MVP.
Orr’s flying goal is one of the most iconic images in hockey history. His performance redefined the role of defensemen in the NHL and remains a timeless moment for Bruins fans and the sport.
3. Wayne Gretzky’s 50 Goals in 39 Games – 1981
On December 30, 1981, Wayne Gretzky of the Edmonton Oilers was closing in on Maurice “Rocket” Richard’s record of 50 goals in 50 games.
Gretzky exploded for five goals in a single game against the Philadelphia Flyers, reaching the 50-goal mark in just 39 games. His final goal was an empty-netter in the dying moments, securing his place in the record books.
Gretzky shattered the previous record of 50 goals in 50 games and went on to score 92 goals that season, setting another NHL record.
Gretzky’s achievement cemented his status as “The Great One” and remains one of the most remarkable individual milestones in sports. His offensive dominance reshaped the NHL during the 1980s.
4. Mario Lemieux’s 5 Goals, 5 Ways – 1988
On December 31, 1988, Mario Lemieux of the Pittsburgh Penguins accomplished one of the most unique feats in NHL history during a game against the New Jersey Devils.
Lemieux scored five goals in five different ways: even strength, power play, short-handed, penalty shot, and empty net, leading the Penguins to an 8-6 victory.
Lemieux’s five-goal performance remains unmatched in the variety of ways they were scored.
This game showcased Lemieux’s versatility and scoring prowess, solidifying his place as one of the greatest players in NHL history.
5. Paul Henderson’s Summit Series Winning Goal – 1972
The 1972 Summit Series pitted Canada’s best NHL players against the Soviet Union’s top hockey talent in an eight-game series. Both teams were tied going into Game 8.
With 34 seconds left in the final game, Paul Henderson scored the game-winning goal, breaking a 5-5 tie and giving Canada a 6-5 victory in the series.
Henderson scored seven goals in the series, including the game-winners in the final three games.
Henderson’s goal became a defining moment in Canadian sports history, symbolizing national pride and Canada’s enduring love for hockey. The Summit Series is still celebrated as one of hockey’s greatest international matchups.
6. Mark Messier’s Guarantee – 1994 Eastern Conference Finals
The New York Rangers were down 3-2 to the New Jersey Devils in the 1994 Eastern Conference Finals. Facing elimination, Rangers captain Mark Messier made a bold guarantee that his team would win Game 6.
Messier backed up his words by scoring a natural hat trick in the third period, leading the Rangers to a 4-2 victory and forcing a Game 7, which the Rangers eventually won en route to their first Stanley Cup in 54 years.
Messier scored 3 goals and added 1 assist in the decisive Game 6 performance.
Messier’s leadership and guarantee became legendary, further elevating his reputation as one of hockey’s greatest captains. The Rangers went on to win the Stanley Cup, fulfilling Messier’s prophecy.
7. Steve Yzerman’s Double-Overtime Goal – 1996 Western Conference Semifinals
In Game 7 of the 1996 Western Conference Semifinals, the Detroit Red Wings faced off against the St. Louis Blues in a tense series-decider.
In double overtime, Red Wings captain Steve Yzerman intercepted a pass at center ice and fired a slap shot from the blue line, beating Blues goalie Jon Casey and sending Detroit to the Western Conference Finals.
Yzerman’s goal came at 1:15 of double overtime and ended the Blues’ playoff run.
Yzerman’s goal remains one of the most famous in NHL playoff history, solidifying his reputation as a clutch performer and one of the Red Wings’ all-time greats.
8. Patrick Roy’s “Wink” – 1993 Stanley Cup Finals
In Game 2 of the 1993 Stanley Cup Finals, the Montreal Canadiens faced the Los Angeles Kings. Canadiens goalie Patrick Roy was in top form during the series.
After making a spectacular glove save on a hard shot from Tomas Sandstrom, Roy famously “winked” at him, displaying supreme confidence. Roy’s dominant performance helped Montreal win the game 3-2 in overtime.
Roy made 39 saves in Game 2 and was named the Conn Smythe Trophy winner as playoff MVP.
Roy’s “wink” became a symbol of his confidence and his status as one of the greatest goalies in NHL history. The Canadiens went on to win the Stanley Cup, their last championship to date.
9. Sidney Crosby’s Golden Goal – 2010 Winter Olympics
On February 28, 2010, Canada faced the U.S. in the gold medal game of the Winter Olympics in Vancouver. The game was tied 2-2 heading into overtime.
In overtime, Sidney Crosby called for the puck, took a pass from Jarome Iginla, and shot it past U.S. goalie Ryan Miller, giving Canada a 3-2 victory and the gold medal.
Crosby’s goal came at 7:40 of overtime, securing Canada’s second consecutive Olympic gold in men’s hockey.
“The Golden Goal” became a defining moment in Canadian sports history, with Crosby’s heroics immortalized in the nation’s hockey legacy.
10. Gordie Howe’s Final Goal – 1980
In 1980, at the age of 52, Gordie Howe played his final NHL season with the Hartford Whalers. He was already a legend with a career spanning five decades.
Howe scored his final NHL goal on April 6, 1980, against the Montreal Canadiens, marking his 801st career goal. The game ended in a 3-3 tie.
Howe finished his career with 801 goals and 1,850 points in the NHL, both records at the time.
Gordie Howe’s longevity and productivity at the age of 52 remain unparalleled in professional sports. He is still celebrated as one of the greatest and most enduring players in hockey history.
These top 10 moments capture the excitement, drama, and history of the NHL. Each moment helped shape the legacy of the league, its players, and its place in the world of sports.