January 22nd has been a significant date in hockey history, filled with memorable goaltending performances, hat tricks, and milestones.
In 1976, Rogie Vachon achieved a notable feat, becoming the first goalie to win 100 games for the Los Angeles Kings, marking a significant moment in the team's history. The Kings secured a 6-3 victory over the Toronto Maple Leafs, with Mike Murphy contributing significantly with four goals, including a third-period hat trick, his first with Los Angeles. Marcel Dionne, a Hall of Famer, also set a new team record with five assists in the game.
Two decades later, on January 22, 1996, Allan Bester celebrated his first NHL victory in nearly six years, leading the Dallas Stars to a 6-4 win against the Vancouver Canucks. Bester was called upon after injuries sidelined both Andy Moog and Darcy Wakaluk.
Craig Anderson recorded his first career shutout on January 22, 2004, making 30 saves in the Chicago Blackhawks' 7-0 victory over the Columbus Blue Jackets. This win was especially significant as it was his first after starting his career with a 0-11-2 record.
Hat tricks took center stage on January 22, 2019, during a game between the Washington Capitals and the San Jose Sharks. Alex Ovechkin scored his 23rd career hat trick, tying Jari Kurri for 10th in NHL history. However, Tomas Hertl of the Sharks matched Ovechkin's performance with a hat trick of his own, contributing to the Sharks' 7-6 overtime win.
Beyond these specific game highlights, the NHL community continues to grow the game. On January 22, 2025, the National Hockey League Players' Association (NHLPA) announced that Bobby Brink and NHLPA Goals & Dreams donated 20 sets of new hockey equipment to DinoMights, a Minnesota-based program. DinoMights supports youth from kindergarten through 12th grade, combining hockey with tutoring, leadership development, community service, and job readiness training. Additionally, Minnesota Wild players Marcus Foligno and Jake Middleton attended a United Heroes League (UHL) Hockey Clinic for military kids, further showcasing the NHL's commitment to community engagement.
