The Top Michigan Goals in NHL History?

Publish date: 2024-06-22

Michigan, also known as "The Michigan" or "The Lacrosse Goal," is a move in ice hockey that involves lifting the puck onto the blade of the stick and tucking it into the net from behind the goal. This audacious maneuver has become increasingly popular in recent years, captivating fans with its creativity and skill. In this article, we will explore some of the top Michigan goals in NHL history, showcasing the artistry and brilliance of the players who executed them.

Mike Legg's Goal (1996 NCAA Tournament)

The Michigan goal gained widespread recognition after Mike Legg, a forward for the University of Michigan, scored a stunning goal in the 1996 NCAA Tournament. Legg scooped the puck onto his stick behind the net and placed it into the top corner, leaving everyone astonished. This incredible feat propelled the Michigan goal into the hockey lexicon and inspired many players to attempt it in the NHL.

Andrei Svechnikov's Goal (2019-2020 NHL Season)

Andrei Svechnikov, a young Russian forward for the Carolina Hurricanes, became the first player to successfully execute the Michigan goal in the NHL during the 2019-2020 season. In a game against the Calgary Flames, Svechnikov skillfully lifted the puck onto his blade and tucked it into the net, displaying his exceptional stickhandling abilities. This goal further popularized the Michigan move among NHL players and fans.

Filip Forsberg's Goal (2014-2015 NHL Season)

Filip Forsberg, a forward for the Nashville Predators, showcased his creativity and skill when he scored a Michigan goal during the 2014-2015 season. With lightning-fast hands, Forsberg deftly lifted the puck onto his stick and tucked it into the net, leaving the opposing goaltender stunned. This goal not only displayed Forsberg's individual brilliance but also solidified his place in NHL history as one of the top Michigan goal scorers.

Denis Savard's Goal (1988 Stanley Cup Playoffs)

Denis Savard, a legendary forward for the Chicago Blackhawks, scored an iconic Michigan goal during the 1988 Stanley Cup Playoffs. In a game against the St. Louis Blues, Savard skillfully lifted the puck onto his stick and tucked it past the goaltender, showcasing his incredible stickhandling prowess. This goal is often regarded as one of the greatest and most influential Michigan goals in NHL history.

Lacrosse-Style Goals by Matthew Tkachuk and Justin Williams

In recent years, the Michigan goal has evolved into a more widespread move known as the "lacrosse-style" goal. Matthew Tkachuk of the Calgary Flames and Justin Williams of the Carolina Hurricanes have both executed this move in NHL games, further pushing the boundaries of creativity and skill. These goals have captivated fans and solidified the Michigan move as a highlight-reel play.

The Michigan goal, with its audacity and creativity, has left a lasting impact on the NHL. From Mike Legg's iconic goal in the 1996 NCAA Tournament to the recent lacrosse-style goals by Matthew Tkachuk and Justin Williams, the Michigan move has become a symbol of individual brilliance and innovative play. As players continue to push the boundaries of what is possible on the ice, we can expect to see more spectacular Michigan goals in the future, captivating fans and leaving us in awe of the skill and artistry of the game.