From his time spent with the Nordiques, all the way up through his tryout with the Vancouver Canucks, Owen Nolan’s career was something special for any number of reasons. Despite spending time with a number of different teams, however, it was fitting that Nolan retired a member of the San Jose Sharks.
1) Owen Nolan, San Jose Sharks – In a career that spanned 18 seasons and seven different teams (including his tryout this season with the Vancouver Canucks), Nolan tallied 885 points, 1,793 penalty minutes and 53 game-winning goals. Earning the respect and adulation of fans wherever he went, Nolan will certainly go down as one of the best players never to hoist the Stanley Cup. While he played for seven teams, he will certainly be remembered by most as a member of the San Jose Sharks where he ranks second on their all-time goals list (206), third in assists (245), third in points (451) and ranks among the tops in many other statistical categories too.
2) Evgeni Nabokov, New York Islanders – Nabokov was absolutely dazzling on Tuesday night, stopping all 45 shots he faced through regulation and overtime and two more in the shootout to stun the Philadelphia Flyers 1-0. Despite a slow start to the season, Nabokov has won seven of his last nine, giving up just 12 goals over that time.
3) Martin Brodeur, New Jersey Devils – Every game that Martin Brodeur wins and every shutout he posts sets a new NHL record and Brodeur set a new record in each category on Tuesday against the rival New York Rangers with a 1-0 win. David Clarkson scored the game’s lone goal.
Favorite Owen Nolan Moment
It might not have happened tonight, but in paying homage to Owen Nolan, you can’t not mention this memorable moment.
Play of the Night
The legality of the shootout spin-o-rama can be debated until one in blue in the face, but it’s pretty hard to deny that they make for some very pretty highlights.
Save of the Night
Robeto Luongo’s tires had to be plenty filled to make this beautiful, rolling toe-save.
Fight of the Night
Cam Janssen and Mike Rupp and Eric Boulton and Brandon Prust decide to forego the banjos and get involved in Dueling Fisticuffs in Tuesday night’s Rangers/Devils tilt.
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