Today in Hockey History: Dec. 20
December 20th has been a memorable date in hockey history, filled with milestones, records, and unforgettable moments. Let's delve into some of the most significant events that occurred on this day.
Early Landmark Achievements
On December 20, 1938, rookie goaltender Frank Brimsek of the Boston Bruins showcased his brilliance by earning his third consecutive shutout in a 3-0 victory against the New York Americans. This remarkable feat marked his sixth shutout in just his first eight NHL games, earning him the moniker "Mr. Zero". Another goaltending legend, Turk Broda, etched his name in the record books on December 20, 1950, becoming the first netminder in NHL history to reach 300 career wins, as his Toronto Maple Leafs triumphed over the Montreal Canadiens 6-1.
Individual Brilliance and Scoring Feats
The date also saw some incredible offensive performances. On December 20, 1964, Bobby Hull found the net in a 3-2 win against the Boston Bruins, taking his total to 28 goals in the first 28 games of the season. Years later, December 20, 1973, Henri Richard of the Montreal Canadiens recorded his 1,000th NHL point. Guy Lafleur, another Canadiens icon, scored his 100th NHL goal on December 20, 1974, in a 6-1 victory over the Vancouver Canucks. Lafleur would later score his 500th career goal on this same date in 1983. That same night Steve Shutt also scored his 400th career goal in a 5-0 win against the New Jersey Devils. In more recent history, Marian Gaborik lit up the scoreboard with a five-goal performance on December 20, 2007.
Team Records and Streaks
December 20th has also been a day for teams to shine. On December 20, 1970, the Chicago Blackhawks defeated the Pittsburgh Penguins 2-1, securing their 13th straight win at Chicago Stadium and extending their home unbeaten streak to 18 games. The Philadelphia Flyers tied an NHL record on December 20, 1979, by extending their undefeated streak to 28 games (19-0-9) with a 1-1 tie against the Pittsburgh Penguins.
Other Memorable Moments
Doug Smail of the Winnipeg Jets set an NHL record for the fastest goal from the start of a game, scoring just four seconds into a 5-4 win over the St. Louis Blues on December 20, 1981. On December 20, 1980, Ron Greschner became the first defenseman in New York Rangers history to score 100 career goals. Denis Potvin passed Bobby Orr as the leading scorer among NHL defensemen on December 20, 1985.
These are just a few of the many significant hockey events that have occurred on December 20th, solidifying its place as a date etched in hockey lore.
