The top 10 comebacks in NHL history (2024)

The National Hockey League (NHL) has witnessed numerous breathtaking comebacks throughout its storied history. From remarkable rallies in the regular season to unforgettable turnarounds in the playoffs, these comebacks have solidified their place in hockey lore.

1. Edmonton Oilers vs. Los Angeles Kings (April 10, 1982)

The 1982 Smythe Division Semifinals witnessed an extraordinary comeback by the Edmonton Oilers against the Los Angeles Kings. Trailing the series 5-0 in the third period of Game 3, the Oilers orchestrated a remarkable rally, scoring five goals to tie the game and eventually triumphing in overtime.

2. Boston Bruins vs. Toronto Maple Leafs (May 13, 2013)

In a stunning display of resilience, the Boston Bruins engineered an incredible comeback against the Toronto Maple Leafs in Game 7 of the 2013 Eastern Conference Quarterfinals. Trailing 4-1 with less than 11 minutes remaining in regulation, the Bruins staged a stunning rally, scoring three goals to force overtime before completing the comeback with a dramatic overtime winner.

3. New York Islanders vs. Pittsburgh Penguins (April 14, 1975)

The New York Islanders etched their name in NHL history with a remarkable comeback against the Pittsburgh Penguins in the 1975 Stanley Cup Quarterfinals.

Trailing 3-0 in the best-of-seven series, the Islanders staged an extraordinary rally, winning four consecutive games to clinch the series and complete one of the most astonishing comebacks in playoff history.

4. St. Louis Blues vs. Toronto Maple Leafs (March 12, 2013)

In an unforgettable regular-season comeback, the St. Louis Blues engineered an extraordinary rally against the Toronto Maple Leafs on March 12, 2013. Trailing 5-1 in the third period, the Blues staged a remarkable comeback, scoring four goals in the final period to force overtime before ultimately securing a dramatic overtime victory.

5. Montreal Canadiens vs. Boston Bruins (April 8, 1971)

The Montreal Canadiens orchestrated a historic comeback against the Boston Bruins in the 1971 Stanley Cup Quarterfinals, showcasing their unwavering resolve. Trailing 5-1 in Game 2 of the series, the Canadiens staged a breathtaking rally, scoring five unanswered goals to secure a remarkable 6-5 victory.

6. New York Rangers vs. Washington Capitals (May 4, 2013)

The New York Rangers staged an unforgettable comeback against the Washington Capitals in Game 5 of the 2013 Eastern Conference Quarterfinals, showcasing their resilience and tenacity. Trailing 2-0 with less than seven minutes remaining in regulation, the Rangers mounted a stunning rally, scoring twice to force overtime before ultimately clinching the victory in sudden-death overtime.

7. Chicago Blackhawks vs. Calgary Flames (April 10, 1989)

The Chicago Blackhawks engineered a historic comeback against the Calgary Flames in the 1989 Smythe Division Semifinals, showcasing their remarkable resilience. Trailing 5-2 with less than five minutes remaining in regulation, the Blackhawks orchestrated an extraordinary rally, scoring three quick goals to force overtime before ultimately securing a dramatic overtime victory.

8. New Jersey Devils vs. Philadelphia Flyers (May 26, 2000)

The New Jersey Devils engineered an unforgettable comeback against the Philadelphia Flyers in Game 7 of the 2000 Eastern Conference Final, showcasing their unwavering resolve in the face of adversity. Trailing 3-1 late in the game, the Devils staged a stunning rally, scoring two quick goals to force overtime before ultimately clinching the victory in sudden-death overtime.

9. Pittsburgh Penguins vs. Washington Capitals (May 4, 1995)

The Pittsburgh Penguins orchestrated a remarkable comeback against the Washington Capitals in the 1995 Eastern Conference Quarterfinals, showcasing their ability to overcome daunting odds. Trailing 3-1 in the series, the Penguins staged a stunning rally, winning three consecutive games to secure a series victory and advance to the next round of the playoffs.

10. Buffalo Sabres vs. Philadelphia Flyers (May 20, 1975)

The Buffalo Sabres etched their name in NHL history with a remarkable comeback against the Philadelphia Flyers in the 1975 Stanley Cup Semifinals. Trailing 3-0 in the best-of-seven series, the Sabres staged an extraordinary rally, winning four consecutive games to complete one of the most astonishing comebacks in playoff history and advance to the Stanley Cup Final.

The NHL has been the stage for numerous remarkable comebacks that have captivated fans and etched the names of these resilient teams in hockey history. These top 10 comebacks serve as enduring testaments to the unwavering determination, resilience, and tenacity of the teams that defied the odds to achieve victory, leaving an indelible mark on the sport of hockey.