The highest-scoring NHL game in history was between the Montreal Canadiens and Quebec Bulldogs on March 3, 1920, with a total of 19 goals scored. This thrilling encounter showcased the Canadiens’ dominance as they triumphed over the Bulldogs in a goal-laden spectacle.
Supporting Facts
- Historical context: The game took place during the 1985–1986 NHL season, known for its high-scoring matches and the dominance of powerhouse teams like the Edmonton Oilers led by Wayne Gretzky.
- Goal Scorers: Numerous hockey legends contributed to the record-breaking scoreline, including Wayne Gretzky, who scored 7 points (1 goal, 6 assists), and Jari Kurri, who netted 5 goals for the Oilers.
- Offensive Intensity: Both teams displayed remarkable offensive prowess throughout the game, combining for an astonishing total of 21 goals, showcasing the skill and firepower of the players on the ice.
- Goalie Struggles: The goaltenders faced an onslaught of shots, with Edmonton’s Andy Moog and Chicago’s Murray Bannerman struggling to keep the puck out of their nets amidst the relentless offensive pressure from both teams.
- Enduring Record: Despite the passage of time and changes in playing styles, the 12-9 scoreline from the Oilers-Blackhawks matchup on December 11, 1985, remains unmatched in NHL history, solidifying its place as the highest-scoring game ever recorded.
Some Highest Scoring NHL Games
Here are some highest scoring NHL games:
| Matchup | Date | Total Goals | Score |
|---|---|---|---|
| Montreal Canadiens vs. Toronto St. Patricks | Jan. 1, 1920 | 21 | Canadiens 14, St. Patrick’s 7 |
| Edmonton Oilers vs. Minnesota North Stars | Jan. 4, 1984 | 20 | Oilers 12, North Stars 8 |
| Toronto Maple Leafs vs. Edmonton Oilers | Jan. 8, 1986 | 20 | Maple Leafs 11, Oilers 9 |
| Montreal Wanderers vs. Toronto Arenas | Dec. 19, 1918 | 19 | Wanderers 10, Arenas 9 |
| Quebec Bulldogs vs. Montreal Canadiens | March 3, 1920 | 19 | Canadiens 16, Bulldogs 3 |
| Montreal Canadiens vs. Hamilton Tigers | Feb. 26, 1921 | 19 | Canadiens 13, Tigers 6 |
| Boston Bruins vs. New York Rangers | March 4, 1944 | 19 | Bruins 10, Rangers 9 |
| Detroit Red Wings vs. Boston Bruins | March 16, 1944 | 19 | Red Wings 10, Bruins 9 |
| Vancouver Canucks vs. Minnesota North Stars | Oct. 7, 1983 | 19 | Canucks 10, North Stars 9 |
Highest-scoring NHL playoff games
Here are some Highest-scoring NHL playoff games:
| Matchup | Date | Total Goals | Score |
|---|---|---|---|
| Edmonton Oilers vs. Los Angeles Kings | April 7, 1982 | 18 | Kings 10, Oilers 8 |
| Pittsburgh Penguins vs. Philadelphia Flyers | April 25, 1989 | 17 | Penguins 10, Flyers 7 |
| Edmonton Oilers vs. Los Angeles Kings | April 9, 1987 | 16 | Oilers 13, Kings 3 |
| Los Angeles Kings vs. Calgary Flames | April 10, 1990 | 16 | Kings 12, Flames 4 |
| Montreal Canadiens vs. Chicago Blackhawks | May 8, 1973 | 15 | Blackhawks 8, Canadiens 7 |
| Boston Bruins vs. Minnesota North Stars | April 9, 1981 | 15 | North Stars 9, Bruins 6 |
| Edmonton Oilers vs. Chicago Blackhawks | May 15, 1985 | 15 | Oilers 10, Blackhawks 5 |
| Los Angeles Kings vs. Calgary Flames | April 29, 1993 | 15 | Kings 9, Flames 6 |
| Calgary Flames vs. Edmonton Oilers | May 18, 2022 | 15 | Flames 9, Oilers 6 |
| Boston Bruins vs. Chicago Blackhawks | April 21, 1974 | 14 | Bruins 8, Blackhawks 6 |
| Chicago Blackhawks vs. Detroit Red Wings | April 10, 1985 | 14 | Blackhawks 9, Red Wings 6 |
| Chicago Blackhawks vs. Edmonton Oilers | May 12, 1985 | 14 | Blackhawks 8, Oilers 6 |
| New Jersey Devils vs. Washington Capitals | April 22, 1988 | 14 | Devils 10, Capitals 4 |
| Edmonton Oilers at Colorado Avalanche | May 31, 2022 | 14 | Avalanche 8, Oilers 6 |
Is It Called A Hockey “Match” Or “Game” In 2024?
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the biggest blowout in NHL history?
The biggest blowout in NHL history occurred on January 23, 1944, when the Detroit Red Wings defeated the New York Rangers with a staggering score of 15-0.
What was the highest-scoring NHL playoff game?
The highest-scoring NHL playoff game happened on April 11, 1985, between the Edmonton Oilers and the Chicago Blackhawks. The Oilers won the game with a score of 13-3.
What was the worst game in NHL history?
It’s subjective to determine the “worst” game in NHL history as it can vary based on different criteria. However, one notable game often cited for its lack of excitement was a match between the Toronto Maple Leafs and the Boston Bruins on February 13, 1953. The game ended in a 0-0 tie, marking one of the few scoreless ties in NHL history and disappointing fans expecting more action.
What is the craziest comeback in NHL history?
One of the craziest comebacks in NHL history occurred during the 2013 playoffs when the Boston Bruins rallied from a three-goal deficit in the final period of Game 7 against the Toronto Maple Leafs. The Bruins scored three goals in the last 10 minutes of regulation, eventually winning the game in overtime, completing an improbable comeback and etching their names into NHL lore.
Who holds the worst record in NHL history?
The worst record in NHL history belongs to the Washington Capitals for their performance during the 1974-1975 season. They finished the season with just 8 wins, 67 losses, and 5 ties, totaling only 21 points in 80 games, setting a record for the fewest points in a single NHL season.
What is the highest-scoring game by one team in the NHL?
The highest-scoring game by one team in NHL history occurred on January 23, 1944, when the Detroit Red Wings defeated the New York Rangers with a staggering score of 15-0.
In conclusion, the NHL has seen remarkable highs and lows throughout its history, from record-breaking scoring feats to challenging seasons for individual teams. While games like the 1944 blowout showcase the potential for dominance, other moments, like scoreless ties, remind us of the unpredictability and diversity of experiences within the sport.
