Michal Kempny scores second-fastest goal in Winter Classic (Video)

The Blackhawks grabbed a very early lead in the 2017 Winter Classic thanks to defenseman Michal Kempny’s goal. 

The Winter Classic has seen some very quick goals. However, only one goal in the history of the Winter Classic has come earlier than the one scored by Chicago Blackhawks defenseman Michal Kempny in the 2017 classic. Just 62 seconds into the game, he put the St. Louis Blues down 1-0.

Only the first Winter Classic has seen a faster goal than that one. Colby Armstrong scored just over 20 seconds into the first Winter Classic between the Buffalo Sabres and Pittsburgh Penguins. Last year, David Desharnais scored just over 70 seconds into the game. That had been the second fastest goal, but now Kempny holds the distinction.

It wasn’t a pretty goal, but it still counts on the scoreboard. Kempny’s shot had a bit of movement to it, confusing Blues goaltender Jake Allen. His goal gives the Blackhawks the first lead they’ve had in an outdoor game in their last three appearances. They lost to the Washington Capitals 3-2 in 2015 despite fighting back from a 2-0 deficit. During the 2015-16 NHL season, they suffered a blowout 6-1 loss to the Minnesota Wild.

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Kempny’s goal is just the second of his rookie campaign. He also has five points on the season now in 26 games. Born in the Czech Republic, Kempny has been a bit of a blessing for the Blackhawks. He is helping to stabilize their blue line, which was in need of some much needed help.

Lately, Kempny has even rendered veteran defenseman Brian Campbell a healthy scratch. Chicago needed to come out strong and take a Blues heavy crowd out of the game. Kempny’s goal accomplished that.