Game 7 Overtime in the Stanley Cup Final: A Rare Occurrence

Twice in Stanley Cup History

Only twice in the storied history of the Stanley Cup Final has Game 7 gone into overtime. The first time occurred in 1950 when Pete Babando scored the Cup-winning goal in double overtime for the Detroit Red Wings.

Missed Opportunities

Since that historic Game 7 overtime in 1950, there have been several other Game 7s that came close to requiring extra time. However, all of these games were ultimately decided in regulation, with the most recent being the 2017 Stanley Cup Final between the Pittsburgh Penguins and Nashville Predators.

Detroit's Missed Chance

In 2009, the Detroit Red Wings had a chance to become the first team since 1950 to win Game 7 of the Stanley Cup Final in overtime. However, forward Max Talbot and goalie Marc-Andre Fleury of the Pittsburgh Penguins spoiled their bid, leading the Penguins to their third Stanley Cup title.

Home Ice Advantage

Interestingly, despite the rarity of Game 7 overtime, Joe Louis Arena in Detroit hosted eight Game 7s, including one in the 2009 finals. However, the last time Game 7 of the Stanley Cup final went into overtime was in 1950.

Best-of-Seven Format

Since the adoption of the best-of-seven format in 1939, Stanley Cup Playoff series have gone into overtime if necessary. However, only two Game 7s in history have required extra time, making this occurrence a rare and thrilling moment in hockey history.