The National Hockey League season is a relentless whirlwind of high-octane action, bone-rattling hits, and moments that leave fans breathless. As the calendar flipped to a new year, December delivered a treasure trove of incredible plays, showcasing the immense talent and unwavering determination that defines the sport. From dazzling dekes to gravity-defying saves, this past month was packed with unforgettable instances. We’ve sifted through the highlights to bring you the absolute best of the best, the moments that made us jump out of our seats and instantly share with fellow hockey enthusiasts. Get ready for a deep dive into the top NHL highlights from December, a collection of goals, saves, and extraordinary plays that will remind you why you love the game.
What makes a hockey highlight truly exceptional? It’s not just about the score or the outcome; it’s about the artistry, the skill, the sheer audacity of the play. We’ve considered factors like difficulty, creativity, impact on the game, and the overall “wow” factor in compiling this list. Prepare to witness some incredible displays of athleticism and hockey IQ as we celebrate the players and teams who shone the brightest in December. You’ll find a blend of established superstars and rising talents, all contributing to the thrilling narrative of the NHL season. We will look at those who shined the brightest between the pipes, the snipers finding the back of the net, and those plays that made us question reality.
Spectacular Goals From The Month
The art of scoring in the NHL is constantly evolving, a blend of power, precision, and creativity. December saw a surge in highlight-reel goals, showcasing the ingenuity and skill of some of the league’s most talented forwards.
Connor McDavid’s Dazzling Display
It is almost mandatory at this point that Connor McDavid appears in these lists. Facing off against the Flames, McDavid collected the puck in his own zone, and went on to undress the entire Calgary defense. With a burst of speed that few can match, McDavid weaved through the neutral zone, leaving defenders grasping at air. A subtle deke to the right, and then a lightning-quick snap shot that beat the goaltender glove-side. The goal was a testament to McDavid’s unmatched agility, vision, and pure offensive prowess. The crowd erupted as number ninety-seven was showered with love and cheers.
Auston Matthews’ Impeccable Wrist Shot
The Toronto Maple Leafs’ Auston Matthews once again demonstrated his elite goal-scoring ability with a wrist shot that can only be described as perfect. In a high-stakes match against the Tampa Bay Lightning, Matthews received a pass just inside the blue line. With seemingly minimal effort, he unleashed a wrist shot that zipped past Andrei Vasilevskiy before he could even react. The puck nestled perfectly into the top corner of the net, a display of pinpoint accuracy and deceptive power. The precision and speed of the release made it virtually impossible for the goaltender to track.
Kirill Kaprizov’s Acrobatic Masterpiece
Kirill Kaprizov of the Minnesota Wild is known for his flair and creativity, and he didn’t disappoint in December. In a game against the Winnipeg Jets, Kaprizov executed a goal that defied logic. While falling to the ice, and facing away from the net, he somehow managed to deflect the puck with the blade of his stick, sending it soaring past Connor Hellebuyck. The goal was a testament to Kaprizov’s incredible hand-eye coordination, improvisation, and determination. It was an unbelievable finish that left fans in awe.
Nathan MacKinnon’s Power Play Brilliance
Nathan MacKinnon of the Colorado Avalanche showcased his incredible strength and puck-handling skills on the power play. Against the Boston Bruins, MacKinnon received a pass near the face-off circle. With a quick shoulder fake to create space, MacKinnon unleashed a blistering slap shot that screamed past Linus Ullmark and into the back of the net. The goal demonstrated MacKinnon’s ability to combine power and precision, making him a force to be reckoned with on the power play.
Artemi Panarin’s Shifty Magic
Artemi Panarin of the New York Rangers is renowned for his silky-smooth hands and incredible vision. During a game against the Washington Capitals, Panarin pulled off a series of dazzling dekes that left the defense completely bewildered. He dangled past multiple defenders, creating space for himself before roofing a backhand shot over Darcy Kuemper. The goal exemplified Panarin’s elite puck-handling skills and his ability to create scoring opportunities out of seemingly nothing.
Honorable Mentions
Dylan Larkin’s snipe against the Sabres, Tage Thompson’s wicked wrister versus the Leafs, and Sidney Crosby’s toe-drag finish against the Islanders. The level of skill on display was truly remarkable.
Incredible Saves That Defied Logic
Goaltenders are the last line of defense, and their ability to make game-changing saves is crucial to their team’s success. December saw a number of incredible stops that left fans and players alike in disbelief.
Igor Shesterkin’s Glove Hand Robbery
Igor Shesterkin of the New York Rangers is quickly establishing himself as one of the league’s top goaltenders. In a crucial game against the Carolina Hurricanes, Shesterkin made a save that can only be described as miraculous. With the Hurricanes on the power play, Sebastian Aho fired a one-timer from the face-off circle. The puck was headed towards the top corner of the net, but Shesterkin somehow managed to extend his glove hand and snag the puck out of the air. The save was a testament to Shesterkin’s incredible reflexes, athleticism, and focus. The crowd erupted in cheers, recognizing the significance of the save.
Juuse Saros’ Desperation Dive
Juuse Saros of the Nashville Predators is known for his agility and determination. Against the St. Louis Blues, Saros made a save that showcased his incredible athleticism. With the Blues pressing hard in the offensive zone, a rebound popped out to a wide-open Vladimir Tarasenko. Tarasenko fired a shot towards the open net, but Saros dove across the crease, extending his pad to make a miraculous save. The save was a testament to Saros’ unwavering commitment and his ability to never give up on a play.
Andrei Vasilevskiy’s Acrobatic Extension
Andrei Vasilevskiy of the Tampa Bay Lightning is consistently ranked among the league’s elite goaltenders. In a game against the Boston Bruins, Vasilevskiy made a save that defied gravity. With the Bruins on the attack, a cross-ice pass found David Pastrnak wide open on the back door. Pastrnak fired a shot towards the open net, but Vasilevskiy somehow managed to extend his body and make a diving glove save. The save was a testament to Vasilevskiy’s incredible flexibility, athleticism, and positioning.
Connor Hellebuyck’s Stone Wall Performance
Connor Hellebuyck of the Winnipeg Jets is a perennial Vezina Trophy contender. He showed why with a spectacular save against the Dallas Stars. With the Stars pressing in the offensive zone, Jamie Benn fired a shot from the slot. Hellebuyck made a sprawling save, denying Benn a sure goal. The save was a testament to Hellebuyck’s incredible reflexes, and positioning.
Jake Oettinger’s Impeccable Positioning
Jake Oettinger of the Dallas Stars is quickly making a name for himself as one of the league’s top young goaltenders. In a game against the Colorado Avalanche, Oettinger showcased his incredible positioning and awareness. With the Avalanche on the power play, Mikko Rantanen fired a shot from the point. Oettinger tracked the puck perfectly, making a clean save. The save was a testament to Oettinger’s understanding of the game, and his ability to anticipate plays.
Honorable Mentions
Tristan Jarry’s toe save, Thatcher Demko’s blocker stop, and Sergei Bobrovsky’s sprawling denial. These goaltenders consistently demonstrated their skill and determination.
Unforgettable Moments Beyond Goals and Saves
Hockey is more than just goals and saves; it’s about the passion, the intensity, and the unforgettable moments that capture the essence of the sport. December was filled with such moments.
The Heated Rivalry Game
The clash between the Boston Bruins and the Montreal Canadiens is always a highlight, and December’s matchup was no exception. The game was filled with intensity, physicality, and a few memorable scrums.
Overtime Thriller
The game between the Edmonton Oilers and the New York Rangers was an absolute barnburner, going back and forth. The game went to overtime where McDavid managed to snipe the winning goal, sending the crowd in to a frenzy.
Comeback Win
The Washington Capitals were down by four goals early in the third period against the Anaheim Ducks. Displaying unbelievable grit, the Capitals rallied back to win the game.
December’s Standout Players
The NHL is a league of stars, and some shone brighter than others in December.
Connor McDavid, Edmonton Oilers
What can be said that hasn’t been said before? McDavid continued his dominance, racking up points at an alarming rate. His skating, puck-handling, and vision are simply unmatched. He cemented his status as one of the greatest to ever play the game. In December, he was unstoppable.
Nikita Kucherov, Tampa Bay Lightning
Kucherov’s offensive brilliance was on full display. His playmaking skills and scoring touch were instrumental in the Lightning’s success. He was a constant threat to opposing defenses. Kucherov reminded everyone why he’s considered one of the league’s most dynamic players.
Honorable Mentions
Auston Matthews, David Pastrnak, and Quinn Hughes. These players consistently delivered strong performances, contributing to their teams’ success.
In Conclusion: The NHL’s December Delights
December in the NHL was a showcase of skill, athleticism, and passion. From jaw-dropping goals to game-saving stops, the month delivered a plethora of unforgettable moments. These highlight-reel plays serve as a reminder of why hockey is one of the most exciting and captivating sports in the world. As the season progresses, we can only anticipate even more incredible displays of talent and determination. The stage is set for a thrilling second half of the year. The Stanley Cup playoffs are on the horizon! Which brings an air of excitement for those who watch the game.
What were your favorite NHL highlights from December? Share your thoughts and opinions in the comments below! Let’s discuss the moments that stood out to you and the players who impressed you the most. The conversation is just beginning. Thanks for reading!
