January 20th, 2018. The All-Star Game in Tampa Bay. Nikita Kucherov scored his third goal on three shots in the 3v3 tournament against Braden Holtby. Except, he didn’t actually take the shot on the third goal.
Titled the “No-Shot” goal, Kucherov pulled off an amazing and brilliant deke on the Washington Capitals goaltender, opening up the five hole so the puck could aimlessly slide into the net. Pulling off a move like that was unreal and so much fun to watch.
Which is why it was so crazy when he did it again! One month later, in a regular season game, on the road, against Holtby! Again!!
And the cherry on top — Holtby’s reaction. Mwah!
It was a little bit of shame that Holtby was on the receiving end of both these goals last year because personally, he’s one of the more likeable goalies in the league, he’s great and engaging with the fans, and seeing his beard under his mask sometimes makes me wonder what Chewbacca would look like as a goalie. Ah well, I’m sure he’s gotten over it.
Lightning Links
- “From development path to style of game, Corson Ceulemans continues to draw comparisons to Colorado Avalanche wunderkind Cale Makar.” — Lauren continues her 21 Day of 2021 with a brilliant feature on Corson Ceulemans. [Raw Charge]
- “We think if we were required to, we might have the ability to play in August. If we have to fit games in, we’ll find ways to fit games in.” — Bill Daley on the potential for completing the season in the summer. [NHL dot com]
- “Obviously a fair season is a full season, so if we can do that that’s obviously what I’d prefer.” — Connor McDavid on what the schedule should look like upon resumption of the season. He also expressed worry about conditioning and how much the Oilers and Flames would tear each other to shreds in the first round. [Sportsnet]
- Anthony Stewart discovers European Handball, but make it hockey. /
NHL fans: how do we increasing scoring?? We want more goals!!
Me: Shrink the players!!!!!! pic.twitter.com/GO8zAm44ke
— Anthony Stewart (@StuMunrue) March 26, 2020
