The National Hockey League (NHL) has witnessed numerous thrilling comebacks throughout its rich history.
From regular season games to intense playoff battles, teams have defied the odds and staged remarkable turnarounds.
These comebacks not only showcase the resilience and determination of the players but also provide fans with unforgettable moments of excitement and drama.
Here we look at some of the biggest comebacks in NHL history, both in the regular season and playoffs, highlighting the key factors that contributed to these remarkable turnarounds.
Regular Season Comebacks
1. The Miracle on Manchester
One of the most iconic comebacks in NHL history occurred during the 1982 playoffs when the Los Angeles Kings faced the Edmonton Oilers.
In Game 3 of the best-of-five series, the Kings found themselves trailing 5-0 after the second period.
However, they mounted an incredible comeback in the third period, scoring five unanswered goals to tie the game and force overtime.
In overtime, Daryl Evans scored the game-winning goal, completing the miraculous comeback and giving the Kings a 6-5 victory.
This comeback is often referred to as the “Miracle on Manchester” due to the location of the Kings’ home arena at the time.
It remains one of the most memorable comebacks in NHL history and serves as a testament to the never-give-up attitude of the players.
2. The St. Louis Blues’ Historic Turnaround
In the 2018-2019 NHL season, the St. Louis Blues experienced a remarkable turnaround that culminated in their first-ever Stanley Cup victory.
In January 2019, the Blues had the worst record in the league and seemed destined to miss the playoffs.
However, they rallied together and went on an incredible run, winning 30 of their final 49 games to secure a playoff spot.
Once in the playoffs, the Blues continued their impressive performance, defeating the Winnipeg Jets, Dallas Stars, and San Jose Sharks to reach the Stanley Cup Finals.
In the finals, they faced the Boston Bruins and emerged victorious in a hard-fought seven-game series.
The Blues’ turnaround from last place in January to Stanley Cup champions is a testament to their resilience and determination.
Playoff Comebacks
1. The Boston Bruins’ Historic Comeback
In the 2013 Eastern Conference Quarterfinals, the Boston Bruins staged an incredible comeback against the Toronto Maple Leafs.
In Game 7 of the series, the Bruins found themselves trailing 4-1 with less than 11 minutes remaining in the third period.
However, they mounted a stunning rally, scoring three goals in the final minutes of regulation to tie the game and force overtime.
In overtime, Patrice Bergeron scored the game-winning goal, completing the Bruins’ historic comeback and sending them to the next round of the playoffs.
This comeback is often referred to as the “Miracle in Boston” and stands as one of the most memorable comebacks in NHL playoff history.
2. The Philadelphia Flyers’ Three-Goal Comeback
In the 2010 Eastern Conference Semifinals, the Philadelphia Flyers faced the Boston Bruins in a thrilling series.
In Game 7 of the series, the Flyers found themselves trailing 3-0 after the first period and seemed destined for elimination.
However, they mounted an incredible comeback, scoring three goals in the second period to tie the game.
In the third period, the Flyers added two more goals to complete the comeback and secure a 4-3 victory.
This comeback marked the first time in NHL history that a team had overcome a three-goal deficit in a Game 7 to win the series.
The Flyers’ resilience and determination in this game will forever be remembered by hockey fans.
Q&A – Biggest Comeback in NHL History (Regular Season & Playoffs)
1. What is the biggest comeback in NHL history?
The biggest comeback in NHL history occurred during the 1982 playoffs when the Los Angeles Kings overcame a 5-0 deficit to defeat the Edmonton Oilers 6-5 in overtime.
This game is often referred to as the “Miracle on Manchester.”
2. Which team had the most remarkable regular season turnaround?
The St. Louis Blues had one of the most remarkable regular season turnarounds in NHL history during the 2018-2019 season.
They went from having the worst record in the league in January to winning the Stanley Cup.
3. What is the most memorable playoff comeback?
One of the most memorable playoff comebacks is the Boston Bruins’ historic comeback against the Toronto Maple Leafs in the 2013 Eastern Conference Quarterfinals.
The Bruins rallied from a 4-1 deficit in the third period to win the game in overtime.
4. Has any team overcome a three-goal deficit in a Game 7?
Yes, the Philadelphia Flyers overcame a three-goal deficit in a Game 7 during the 2010 Eastern Conference Semifinals against the Boston Bruins.
They scored three goals in the second period and two more in the third period to secure a 4-3 victory.
5. How do these comebacks impact the players and teams involved?
These comebacks serve as a source of inspiration and motivation for the players and teams involved.
They demonstrate the power of resilience, determination, and never giving up, which can have a profound impact on the confidence and mindset of the players.
6. Are comebacks more common in the regular season or playoffs?
Comebacks can occur in both the regular season and playoffs, but they tend to be more memorable and impactful in the playoffs.
The high stakes and do-or-die nature of playoff games often lead to more intense and dramatic comebacks.
7. What are some key factors that contribute to a successful comeback?
Several factors can contribute to a successful comeback, including strong leadership, belief in the team’s abilities, adjustments in strategy, individual performances, and momentum shifts.
The ability to capitalize on opportunities and maintain composure under pressure is also crucial.
8. How do comebacks affect fan engagement and excitement?
Comebacks are often the most exciting and memorable moments in sports, generating a surge of fan engagement and excitement.
They create a sense of unpredictability and keep fans on the edge of their seats, making the game more thrilling and enjoyable to watch.
9. Are there any comebacks that changed the course of a team’s season or playoff run?
Yes, comebacks can have a significant impact on a team’s season or playoff run.
The St. Louis Blues’ historic turnaround in the 2018-2019 season propelled them from last place to Stanley Cup champions, showcasing the transformative power of a comeback.
10. How do comebacks contribute to the overall narrative and legacy of a team?
Comebacks often become an integral part of a team’s narrative and legacy.
They are remembered as defining moments that showcase the team’s resilience, determination, and ability to overcome adversity.
These comebacks become part of the team’s history and are celebrated by fans for years to come.
Summary – Biggest Comeback in NHL History (Regular Season & Playoffs)
The NHL has witnessed numerous remarkable comebacks throughout its history, both in the regular season and playoffs.
From the “Miracle on Manchester” to the St. Louis Blues’ historic turnaround, these comebacks showcase the resilience and determination of the players.
In the playoffs, the Boston Bruins’ historic comeback against the Toronto Maple Leafs and the Philadelphia Flyers’ three-goal comeback against the Bruins stand out as unforgettable moments of excitement and drama.
Related
