The Most Bizarre Goal In NHL History Has Been Scored When Everyone Thought Play Was Dead

As the year came to a close, the Montreal Canadiens pulled off a controversial empty-net goal in the second period against the Tampa Bay Lightning, creating one of the weirdest moments in the National Hockey League. In the clash at Amalie Arena on Sunday night, confusion arose after what seemed like a stoppage in play, with officials failing to blow the whistle.

While everyone assumed the play was over, Canadiens goaltender Samuel Montembeault recognized the opportunity and urged his teammates to seize it. They did just that, scoring a bizarre empty-net goal amidst the confusion. Despite a goalie technically being on the ice, the Lightning roster behaved as if they were heading for a break, leaving the net vulnerable. Take a look at the replay to witness this truly bizarre scene from the final moments of the 2023 NHL calendar year.

Can you think of a more bizarre goal?