The NHL playoffs have seen some of the greatest sports comebacks in history, including a few times when teams have managed to erase a 3-0 series hole. In this post, we look back at the NHL history book to identify every time an NHL team has fought back from 3-0 in a series.
Historic Comebacks
1942 Stanley Cup Finals: Toronto Maple Leafs vs. Detroit Red Wings
Game 7 of the 1942 Stanley Cup Final was the first time in NHL history that a team, the Toronto Maple Leafs, overcame a three-game series deficit to win. The Maple Leafs returned from a 3-0 deficit to win the next four games and claim the Cup.
1975 Stanley Cup Quarterfinals: New York Islanders vs. Pittsburgh Penguins
The New York Islanders were down 3-0 to the Pittsburgh Penguins in their series. Still, they defeated the 2018 Stanley Cup champions by losing four straight games, ultimately shutting out the Pens on Game 7 with only half of their backup goalie's season-averaged saves of 30.
2010 Eastern Conference Semifinals: Philadelphia Flyers vs. Boston Bruins
The Philadelphia Flyers completed one of the greatest comebacks in NHL history after falling behind 3-0 against the Bruins. They would win the next four games, getting as far as a Game 7 in the playoffs.
2014 Western Conference First Round: Los Angeles Kings vs. San Jose Sharks
The Los Angeles Kings did what only two teams in Stanley Cup Playoff history had done: they won four straight games after falling behind 3-0, returning to do it against the San Jose Sharks. They completed the comeback, winning Game 7 and moved on.
Reasons for the Heroes to Come Back
Performance and Coaching decisions
Great player performances and coaching maneuvers helped make these amazing comebacks part of history. The teams rallying at the time received key elements such as high-quality goaltending, clutch scoring, and in-game adjustments.
Turns of Momentum, the Human Element
These comebacks are often associated with momentum swings. As the teams being eliminated start racking up wins, pressure builds on the leader. Both sides need to remain composed and show mental resilience, too.
On the whole
The NHL is no stranger to incredible comebacks, and fans of the game have witnessed teams rise from a 3-0 series deficit. These historical examples highlight just how wild and intense the playoffs can be. These comebacks can be attributed to enormous player performances, intelligent coaching decisions, and psychological advantage. The difficulties of holding a 3-0 playoff lead in the NHL are apparent, and a playoff series becomes more about resilience, prowess, and gut-check time than any training.
But the stories of improbable comebacks in NHL history are the stuff of legend, and these instances of blowing 3-0 leads remain as stark reminders that merited such recounting.
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