The best Chicago Blackhawks goals are iconic moments that have defined the franchise’s history and thrilled fans for over a decade. Known for being an ‘Original Six‘ team, six-time Stanley Cup champions, and having players grace the cover of EA Sports NHL, the Blackhawks have delivered some of the most unforgettable goal-scoring moments.
5 Best Chicago Blackhawks Goals
Stanley Cup OT Winner: 2010
Silence swept over the Philadelphia Flyers’ home rink when it felt like Patrick Kane was the only one who knew he had scored. Kane slid the puck past Michael Leighton on the left wing, sealing the Blackhawks’ victory. With the score tied 3-3, Kane ended the game just 4:06 into overtime. This goal gave Chicago its first Stanley Cup since 1961 and marked the beginning of a new era of Blackhawks hockey.
The Blackhawks went on to win the Stanley Cup twice in 2013 and 2015 with Kaner on the team until his trade to the New York Rangers hit the headlines. This goal remains one of the best in Blackhawk’s history. It is celebrated as a defining moment that honours Kane’s legacy with the team.
Back-to-Back Goals: 2013
In Game 6 against the Boston Bruins, the Chicago Blackhawks fought to tie the score. Jonathan Toews passed to Bryan Bickell on the weak side, where the Bruins’ defence was vulnerable. Bickell scored, tying the game. With just 1:16 remaining in the third period, a rebound off the goal post set up Dave Bolland. He scored the go-ahead goal 17 seconds after Bickell’s, putting the Blackhawks up 3-2 against Boston’s goaltender, Tuukka Rask. The team erupted in celebration, securing their second Stanley Cup in four seasons. Moments after the win, captain Jonathan Toews became the first Blackhawks captain to win the Stanley Cup twice.
Could this be one of the best Blackhawks goals in franchise history? Some argue it rivals the iconic 2010 Stanley Cup-winning goal. Regardless, it was a pivotal moment for the league. Bryan Bickell retired in 2017 after being diagnosed with relapsing multiple sclerosis (MS) in 2016. He chose to prioritize his health and family. Supported by his teammates and the hockey community, Bickell found strength off the ice, turning his focus to advocacy and motivation. Alongside his wife, Amanda, Bickell expanded their charitable organization, providing trained service dogs to help those with MS manage daily challenges.
Stanley Cup Finals 2015
Fast-forward to 2015, and no discussion of the best Blackhawks goals is complete without mentioning Patrick Kane again. During the Stanley Cup Finals against the Tampa Bay Lightning, Brandon Saad‘s drop pass to Brad Richards set up a perfect feed to Kane. Kane’s precise shot beat Lighting goalie Ben Bishop, giving the Blackhawks a 2-0 lead with just five minutes left in the third period. A close-up shot captured Kane’s enthusiastic celly as the United Center rang out in cheers.
What do these iconic goals mean for the current Blackhawks roster? Connor Bedard, before their first matchup, expressed his excitement about facing Patrick Kane. Both being first-overall picks, Bedard spoke highly of Kane ahead of their game against the Detroit Red Wings in February. “He’s an icon in the game. He’s someone who’s going to be remembered forever and he’s still playing at such an elite level.” Despite this, Bedard swiftly knocked Kane into the boards during their matchup but continued with his gameplay.
Emergency Goal(ie): 2018
Nevertheless, the emergency goalie moment from 2018 is worth mentioning, even if it wasn’t a highlight-reel goal. Scott Foster, an accountant who made his NHL debut in March 2018, stepped in for the Blackhawks against the Winnipeg Jets. With Corey Crawford out for the remainder of the season and responsibilities falling to Anton Forsberg and Collin Delia, the situation became critical. Forsberg was injured before the game, and Delia was injured on the ice, leaving Scott Foster as the only option. Foster stopped all seven shots he faced and became an instant sensation in Chicago. The Blackhawks won 6-2, and Foster was named the game’s first star. In just 15 minutes of play, ESPN reported, “Foster is the most celebrated beer league hockey player in America” After signing an emergency amateur tryout contract (for $0) and helping Chicago secure the win, he celebrated with the team.
“The Michigan” Goal: 2023
As if Connor Bedard couldn’t be more impressive. In a game against their division rivals the St. Louis Blues, the Blackhawks were trailing by a goal. Then Connor Bedard executed a stunning lacrosse-style goal, lifting the puck over his left shoulder and past Jordan Binnington. It marked Bedard’s 13th goal in just 33 games, setting a high bar for rookies. During the intermission, Bedard said, “There was just no one there, and I thought it was a good play, so I went for it.” Despite the Blackhawk’s defeat, Bedard’s goal is one of the best Blackhawk’s goals in recent team history. He is one of only four NHL players to score in this unique style. Chicago fans are hopeful for another Michigan-style moment from Bedard this upcoming season.
As a new season approaches, a trip down memory lane reminds us of the best Blackhawks goals that have defined this franchise. These moments not only excite the arena atmosphere but also serve as inspiration for current players. Ultimately, these goals have left a lasting impact on the Blackhawks and their legacy in the league.
Main Photo: Jeff Curry-Imagn Images
