How many empty net goals did Brett Hull score? This question often comes up when discussing the legendary career of one of the greatest goal-scorers in NHL history. Brett Hull, known for his incredible scoring ability and silky smooth moves, had a knack for finding the back of the net, especially when the opportunity was there for the taking. In this article, we will delve into the details of Brett Hull’s empty net goals and explore his remarkable ability to capitalize on these rare scoring chances.
Brett Hull, born on April 2, 1964, in Calgary, Alberta, Canada, was a right-winger who played for the Calgary Flames, Chicago Blackhawks, Dallas Stars, and St. Louis Blues during his illustrious NHL career. Hull was a three-time Stanley Cup champion and a six-time All-Star, and he was inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 2009.
The term “empty net goal” refers to a goal scored when the opposing team has no goaltender on the ice. This situation usually arises after a power play or a penalty shot, and it is a rare and exciting moment in hockey. Over the course of his career, Brett Hull had the opportunity to score many empty net goals, and his ability to do so with ease was a testament to his skill and determination.
According to the NHL’s official records, Brett Hull scored a total of 26 empty net goals during his NHL career. This number is significant, considering that Hull played in over 1,200 games and had a total of 741 goals. His 26 empty net goals account for approximately 3.5% of his total goals, which is a testament to his scoring prowess in these rare situations.
One of the most memorable empty net goals scored by Brett Hull came during the 1998-1999 NHL season. In a game against the Pittsburgh Penguins, Hull received a pass from Joe Nieuwendyk and raced into the open ice with the Penguins’ goaltender, Tom Barrasso, trailing behind. As Hull approached the net, he faked a shot and then lifted the puck over Barrasso’s outstretched arms, scoring an empty net goal that would go down in history as one of the greatest plays of his career.
Another notable example of Hull’s empty net goals came during the 1995-1996 Stanley Cup Finals. In Game 5 against the Florida Panthers, Hull scored an empty net goal with less than a minute remaining in the game, sealing the victory for the Dallas Stars and sending the series to a deciding Game 6. This goal was a crucial moment in the series and helped the Stars win their first championship.
In conclusion, Brett Hull’s ability to score empty net goals was a testament to his remarkable skill and determination. With a total of 26 empty net goals during his NHL career, Hull will always be remembered as one of the greatest goal-scorers in the history of the sport. His empty net goals not only highlight his scoring ability but also his ability to rise to the occasion in critical moments, making him a true legend of the NHL.
