The implementation of the Emergency Backup Goalie (EBUG) by the National Hockey League has proven to be one of the best decisions made in recent years. Not only has it added an extra layer of security for teams, but it has also generated some of the most compelling storylines in the NHL.
In 2018, Scott Foster, a 36-year-old accountant and recreational goalie, made his NHL debut for the Chicago Blackhawks as an emergency backup goalie. He was forced to come into the game in the third period and made an impressive seven saves to secure a 6-2 win for his team. This performance earned him the title of "legend" and made him an instant fan favorite.
In 2020, another EBUG, David Ayres, made history when he came in to play for the Carolina Hurricanes against the Toronto Maple Leafs. Ayres, a 42-year-old Zamboni driver and occasional practice goalie, was called into action after both Hurricanes goalies were injured. Despite facing 10 shots on goal, Ayres made eight saves and became the oldest goalie in NHL history to win his debut game.
The EBUG system nearly made headlines again recently when one of the greatest goalies of all time, Curtis Joseph, was forced to dress as an emergency backup for the Toronto Maple Leafs. During a game against the Detroit Red Wings, Leafs' starting goalie Matt Murray was injured after a collision with Wings' Lucas Raymond.
Joseph, who had not played in the NHL since 2009, was seen warming up and getting ready to enter the game. However, the Leafs were able to rely on their current backup goalie to finish the game.
