Emergency Goalies in the NHL: History and Current Practices

From sporadic instances to meticulous planning, the role of the emergency goalie in the National Hockey League (NHL) has evolved significantly over the years. This article explores the history and current practices surrounding emergency backups, highlighting notable instances and explaining the rules that govern this unique position.

Lester Patrick and the 1928 Stanley Cup Finals

In the early days of professional hockey, the notion of an emergency goalie was not only part of the game but a significant challenge for teams. The story of Lester Patrick's participation in the 1928 Stanley Cup Finals is a prime example of this. As a coach and current player for the New York Rangers, Patrick found himself stepping into the crease when the team's original goaltender, Lorne Chabot, was unable to continue due to an injury.

Patrick did not have prior experience as a goaltender when he suited up for the game. However, his performance was remarkable. He stopped 18 out of 19 shots, maintaining a strong save percentage even by today's standards. Despite the unusual situation, Patrick's contribution to the team's defensive strategy was pivotal. The Rangers were known for their heavy neutral-zone press, making it difficult for opposing teams to score from close range. This strategy, combined with Patrick's goal-tending prowess, contributed to their eventual victory in the 1928 Stanley Cup Finals.

The Introduction of the EBUG Rule

The introduction of the Emergency Backup Goalie (EBUG) rule significantly changed the dynamics of emergency goaltending in the NHL. This rule was implemented to ensure that teams had a designated emergency goalkeeper on standby in case the regular goaltender and backup were both unable to play. The EBUG rule was first tested in the 2019-2020 season, and its effectiveness was observed during notable instances such as David Ayres' performance for the Carolina Hurricanes.

David Ayres, an assistant coach for the Carolina Hurricanes, became the first emergency backup goalie to earn a win in an NHL game when he took the crease for the team in February 2020. His performance was noteworthy, demonstrating the potential for emergency backups to significantly impact the game. Since then, the EBUG rule has been a standard part of NHL operations, aimed at maintaining the integrity and safety of the game.

Other Instances and Controversies

In recent years, there have been fewer instances of emergency goalies due to the implementation of the EBUG rule and the availability of trained professionals on standby. However, there are notable exceptions. For example, last year, a Chicago-based accountant who played amateur hockey briefly assumed the role of an emergency goalie for the Chicago Blackhawks. This individual allowed no goals during his tenure, earning him $500 for his efforts. Such instances highlight the importance of having reliable emergency goaltender backups.

Historically, the role of emergency goalies was often ad hoc and contingent upon a team's resources. With the EBUG rule, the process has become more organized, with each arena equipped to handle emergencies through designated emergency goalies.

Conclusion and Current Practices

The role of the emergency goalie in the NHL continues to evolve, with the EBUG rule serving as a critical component of team planning and preparation. While the number of emergency goaltending instances remains relatively low, their impact on the game can be significant. Whether it's a veteran coach stepping in or an unexpected substitute taking the crease, the emergency goalie remains a fascinating aspect of NHL history and current practices.