Alex Nedeljkovic Makes NHL History with Goal and Assist in Penguins’ Victory
Alex Nedeljkovic Makes NHL History with Goal and Assist in Penguins’ Victory
BUFFALO, N.Y. — Pittsburgh Penguins goaltender Alex Nedeljkovic etched his name into the NHL record books Friday night, becoming the first goalie in league history to score a goal and record an assist in the same game. His milestone performance helped the Penguins secure a 5-2 win over the Buffalo Sabres at KeyBank Center.
Nedeljkovic’s historic goal came at 17:18 of the third period, as he fired the puck into an empty net after the Sabres pulled their goalie for an extra skater. Earlier in the game, he also assisted on forward Cody Glass’ second-period goal. The 28-year-old netminder now joins an exclusive club as the 16th goalie in NHL history to score a goal and the second to do so this season, following Minnesota Wild’s Filip Gustavsson, who achieved the feat on Oct. 15, 2024.
“I’ve always enjoyed playing the puck,” Nedeljkovic said postgame, as teammates chanted his nickname, “Ned!” in the locker room. “Growing up, I watched some of the best guys do it—Marty Turco, Marty Brodeur—and learned a lot from them. It’s been part of my game as long as I can remember. My dad always told me, ‘Don’t just throw the puck around the boards. Try to make a smart play with it.’”
The Penguins have a unique connection to the last three NHL goalies to score a goal. Gustavsson, who netted his goal earlier this season, was a former Penguins prospect before being traded to the Wild. Tristan Jarry, the Penguins’ previous starter, scored a goal on Nov. 30, 2023, in a win over the Tampa Bay Lightning.
Nedeljkovic’s goal was a moment of pure instinct and precision. After retrieving the puck behind the net, he quickly assessed the situation. “I didn’t know at first if it was on line,” he admitted. “I saw Erik Karlsson with his arms in the air and thought, ‘Oh, this is going to go in.’”
Penguins winger Bryan Rust, who was on the ice during the historic moment, described the scene. “I saw a soft rim and knew he was probably shooting it,” Rust said. “You see him take off for the bench, and everyone just mauled him. It was cool.”
In addition to his offensive contributions, Nedeljkovic made 40 saves, solidifying his place as Pittsburgh’s starting goaltender. His standout performance comes just a day after the Penguins placed Jarry in the American Hockey League following his clearing of waivers.
Nedeljkovic, who signed a two-year contract last summer, is no stranger to scoring goals. Prior to his NHL accomplishments, he also scored in AHL and ECHL games.
The Penguins’ victory not only highlighted Nedeljkovic’s historic night but also underscored his growing importance to the team. As he continues to excel both in net and with the puck, the Penguins’ faith in their goaltender appears to be well placed.
(Photo: Bill Wippert / NHLI via Getty Images)
Conclusion
Alex Nedeljkovic’s extraordinary performance against the Buffalo Sabres not only secured a decisive 5-2 victory for the Pittsburgh Penguins but also cemented his place in NHL history. By scoring a goal and adding an assist in the same game, Nedeljkovic achieved a feat no othre goaltender has accomplished, showcasing his unique skill set and versatility. this milestone moment is a testament to his athleticism, hockey IQ, and ability to seize opportunities when they arise.As the Penguins continue their push for playoff contention, Nedeljkovic’s historic night will undoubtedly be remembered as a defining highlight of the season. His remarkable achievement serves as a reminder that in hockey—and in sports—history can be made at any moment, and sometiems, it’s the goaltender who steals the show.
In a night that will be remembered in NHL history, Alex Nedeljkovic’s unprecedented performance in the Penguins’ 5-2 victory over the Buffalo Sabres not only solidified his place in the record books but also showcased his versatility and skill as a goaltender. By scoring a goal and adding an assist in the same game, Nedeljkovic joined an elite group of netminders, while also highlighting the evolving role of goaltenders in modern hockey. His ability to contribute offensively, paired with his steadfast presence in the crease, underscores his value to the Penguins as they continue their pursuit of success this season. As Nedeljkovic humbly reflected on his milestone, crediting his hockey idols and upbringing, it’s clear that his achievement is a testament to hard work, vision, and a relentless desire to impact the game in every way possible. This historic night not only cements his legacy but also serves as a reminder of the exceptional moments that make hockey one of the most unpredictable and thrilling sports in the world. For the Penguins, Nedeljkovic’s heroics are a rallying point as they look to build momentum and chase their championship aspirations.