The National Hockey League (NHL) has witnessed its fair share of incredible saves over the years. From the likes of Dominik Hasek to Carey Price, goalies have consistently amazed fans with their acrobatic, game-changing stops. Here are the 10 greatest saves in NHL game history.
The Art of Goalie Play
Before diving into the list, it's essential to understand what makes a save truly exceptional. It's not just about stopping the puck; it's about the context, the skill, and the impact on the game. A great save can swing momentum, spark a team, and even decide the outcome of a game.
10. Dominik Hasek's "The Dominator" Save
Dominik Hasek was known for his unorthodox style, and this save showcases his unique approach. In a 1997 game against the Buffalo Sabres, Hasek sprawled across the crease, using his stick to deflect a point-blank shot. The save earned him the nickname "The Dominator."
Why it's Great:
- Unorthodox technique
- Point-blank range
- Game-changing impact
9. Henrik Lundqvist's "The King" Save
Henrik Lundqvist, also known as "The King," made this incredible save in a 2014 playoff game against the Pittsburgh Penguins. With the score tied and only minutes left, Lundqvist robbed Sidney Crosby with a glove save that will be etched in memory forever.
Why it's Great:
- Clutch timing
- Glove save
- Playoff intensity
8. Carey Price's "The Wall" Save
Carey Price, one of the most dominant goalies of his generation, made this remarkable save in a 2015 game against the Arizona Coyotes. With the score tied, Price stretched across the crease to deny a sure goal, showcasing his incredible athleticism.
Why it's Great:
- Athleticism
- Reaction time
- Importance of the game
7. Patrick Roy's "The Savior" Save
Patrick Roy, one of the greatest goalies of all time, made this incredible save in a 1993 playoff game against the Toronto Maple Leafs. With the score tied, Roy dove across the crease, using his stick to deflect a shot that seemed destined for the net.
Why it's Great:
- Clutch performance
- Unbelievable athleticism
- Impact on the game
6. Martin Brodeur's "The Record-Setter" Save
Martin Brodeur, the NHL's all-time leader in wins and shutouts, made this remarkable save in a 2009 game against the Montreal Canadiens. With the score tied, Brodeur robbed Alexei Kovalev with a glove save, showcasing his incredible skill and reaction time.
Why it's Great:
- Record-breaking performance
- Glove save
- Importance of the game
5. Marc-Andre Fleury's "The Flash" Save
Marc-Andre Fleury, a three-time Stanley Cup champion, made this incredible save in a 2016 playoff game against the San Jose Sharks. With the score tied, Fleury dove across the crease, using his stick to deflect a shot that seemed destined for the net.
Why it's Great:
- Clutch performance
- Unbelievable athleticism
- Impact on the game
4. Ben Bishop's "The Tower" Save
Ben Bishop, a Vezina Trophy finalist in 2016, made this remarkable save in a 2015 game against the Tampa Bay Lightning. With the score tied, Bishop stretched across the crease to deny a sure goal, showcasing his incredible athleticism and size.
Why it's Great:
- Athleticism
- Reaction time
- Importance of the game
3. Curtis Joseph's "Cujo" Save
Curtis Joseph, a five-time NHL All-Star, made this incredible save in a 1999 playoff game against the Toronto Maple Leafs. With the score tied, Joseph dove across the crease, using his stick to deflect a shot that seemed destined for the net.
Why it's Great:
- Clutch performance
- Unbelievable athleticism
- Impact on the game
2. Terry Sawchuk's "The Uke" Save
Terry Sawchuk, a four-time Vezina Trophy winner, made this remarkable save in a 1952 playoff game against the Montreal Canadiens. With the score tied, Sawchuk stretched across the crease to deny a sure goal, showcasing his incredible athleticism and skill.
Why it's Great:
- Historic significance
- Athleticism
- Importance of the game
1. Patrick Roy's "The Impossible" Save
Patrick Roy's impossible save against the Detroit Red Wings in the 1996 playoffs takes the top spot. With the score tied, Roy dove across the crease, using his stick to deflect a shot that seemed destined for the net. This save is widely regarded as one of the greatest in NHL history.
Why it's Great:
- Unbelievable athleticism
- Clutch performance
- Historic significance
The greatest saves in NHL history are a testament to the incredible skill and athleticism of goalies. These plays showcase the importance of goalie play in the NHL and demonstrate why fans love watching these incredible athletes compete.
What makes a save truly exceptional?
+A save is considered exceptional when it's made in a crucial moment of the game, requires incredible athleticism or skill, and has a significant impact on the outcome.
Who is the greatest goalie in NHL history?
+Patrick Roy is widely regarded as one of the greatest goalies in NHL history, with four Stanley Cup championships and three Conn Smythe Trophies.
What is the most important aspect of goalie play?
+The most important aspect of goalie play is the ability to make clutch saves in critical moments of the game, as it can greatly impact the outcome and momentum of the game.