Frozen in Time: Hockey's Greatest Calls

1. “Do you believe in miracles? Yes!” Al Michaels, 1980 Olympics

This call is the top call on the list of NHL play-by-play calls for many reasons. For one, it almost guaranteed a gold medal was coming to the United States. The USA is not a big market for hockey, contrary to Mr. Bettman’s beliefs.

But this game, this goal, this call, brought America out of the dumps of the Cold War, out of a horrible economy and a possible world conflict with the Soviet Union, by watching their team defeat the mighty hockey dynasty.

It was a lot more than hockey game, as many say. It was a sort of political statement (unfortunately) that showed the world of the USA’s power and ability to answer to adversity. And these young college kids did just that.

2. “Heeeeeenderson, has scored for Canada!” Foster Hewitt, 1972 Summit Series

No goal in hockey history changed Canada like Paul Henderson’s goal to defeat the Soviet Union in the 1972 Summit Series. Many have argued he should be in the Hall of Fame for this, though the election committee (and myself) do not agree.

For those of you that argue it should be No. 1, hear me out before you chew me out (then chew me out anyway). Yes, this goal was incredible, it came at a perfect time, and it lifted a nation out of a horrible mindset. Nonetheless, it was an exhibition game.

The Summit Series winner was not given anything but the satisfaction of beating another country. Nothing else. It does not take away from the accomplishment of winning the series. It was still amazing.

3. “The New York Rangers are the Stanley Cup Champions, and this one will last a lifetime!” Sam Rosen, 1994 Stanley Cup Final

The curse is over. Well, it was. Now they have another curse. It’s called Glen Sather.

4. “The Soviets are leaving! They’re going home!” 1976 Flyers-Red Army game

Bob Cole calls the Soviet Red Army team skating off the ice after a nasty hit on Valeri Kharlamov of the Soviet team. What did the Flyers fans do? The same thing they always do. Taunt. Anger. Show the passion they have for their team.

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