7 of the best, most filthiest shootout goals in the history of hockey
By Mary Clarke
2. 2005: Marek Malik‘s between-the-legs dazzler
You won’t hear a better reaction to a shootout goal than the aftermath of Marek Malik’s between-the-legs beauty that lifted the New York Rangers over the Washington Capitals. This one came in the 15th round of the shootout, which used to be the NHL record before the Florida Panthers and Capitals smashed that in 2014 with their 20 round shootout.
Malik’s goal is not only is an incredible highlight on its own, but the defenseman had no goals on the season prior to this shootout tally, which made it that much sweeter. The shootout was still in its first year of existence when Malik went between-the-legs for an absolute “circus shot” as the announcers called it after the play.
And they were right. Nowadays, between-the-legs goals are still awesome to watch, but they’re less rare than they used to be back in 2005. Plus, the absolute joy from the announcers makes the highlight such a treat to watch as a fan. The shootout may have burned people out in the years since its inception, but back in 2005 this was an absolute hit, and for good reason.