
MONTREAL — After an eight-year wait, the hockey world is eager for the NHL to reconnect with its rich international heritage, a journey that began back in the 1972 Summit Series. This historic event featured Paul Henderson’s legendary goal, marking a pivotal moment in the annals of professional hockey as Canada faced off against the Soviet Union.
Fast forward to 1987, when Mario Lemieux scored a dramatic goal from a three-on-one assist by Wayne Gretzky—legend No. 66 connecting with icon No. 99—with just 1:26 left in the crucial match. This victory clinched the Canada Cup for Canada, concluding a thrilling contest against the Soviet Union with a score of 6-5.
In 1980, the Lake Placid Olympic Games saw Team USA achieving what Herb Brooks described as “the greatest hockey team in the world” for a night, with the formidable Soviet Union on the opposing side.
However, as the excitement builds for the return of top-tier competition with the 4 Nations Face-Off, one powerhouse will be noticeably absent: Russia. In light of the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, its national teams and players have been sidelined, facing repercussions in the international sporting arena.
