Today in hockey history, January 20th marks a series of memorable milestones, outstanding performances, and significant achievements that have shaped the sport.

All-Star Game Moments

The NHL All-Star Game has provided many memorable moments on this day. Gordie Howe scored his record 10th and final All-Star Game goal on January 20, 1970, in a game where the Eastern Conference triumphed over the Western Conference 4-1. Bobby Hull was named the game's most valuable player.

Individual Milestones

Several hockey legends have reached significant milestones on January 20th. In 1983, Darryl Sittler became the 17th player in NHL history to reach 1,000 career points. Exactly one year after being traded to the Philadelphia Flyers from the Toronto Maple Leafs, he achieved this milestone with a goal and an assist in a 5-2 win against the Calgary Flames. Steve Yzerman reached 1,000 career assists on this day. Patrick Roy became the first goalie to play 1,000 regular-season games on January 20, 2003. Henrik Sedin also recorded his 1,000th point on January 20, 2017.

More recently, on January 20, 2024, Cale Makar became the second-fastest defenseman in NHL history to reach 300 points, achieving the feat in 280 games, just behind Bobby Orr. On the same day, Roman Josi scored his 167th career goal, surpassing Shea Weber for the most goals by a defenseman in Predators history.

Memorable Games

January 20th has also been the date of some unforgettable games. On January 20, 2002, Mathieu Dandenault scored in overtime to give the Detroit Red Wings a 3-2 victory against the Ottawa Senators.

2026 Highlights

Just today, January 20, 2026, Colorado Avalanche center Nathan MacKinnon achieved 1,100 career NHL regular-season points, contributing two goals and an assist in a 5-2 win against the Washington Capitals. MacKinnon is only the second player in Avalanche/Nordiques history to reach this milestone, with Joe Sakic leading the franchise with 1,641 points. Also today, Pittsburgh Penguins captain Sidney Crosby played his 1,400th career NHL game.

Other notable events

• 1910: The Ottawa Senators defeated Edmonton HC 13-7.
• 1989: Mario Lemieux became the second player in NHL history to score 50 goals in fewer than 50 games.

January 20th continues to be a day where hockey history is made, with each passing year adding new stories and achievements to its rich tapestry.