On Saturday night, Jonathan Quick made history at Mullett Arena.
The New York Rangers goaltender surpassed Ryan Miller to become the winningest American-born goalie in NHL history. Quick’s 392nd career victory, an 8-5 win over the Arizona Coyotes, was a fitting end to a remarkable journey that began nearly two decades ago.
THINK QUICK.
Congrats to our very own on a truly incredible accomplishment. π pic.twitter.com/kmefiMo9kO
— x – New York Rangers (@NYRangers) March 31, 2024
Check out his teammates mobbing him after the game:
Jonathan Quick sets the RECORD for most wins by an American-born goalie in NHL history with win #392 π€―πΊπΈ pic.twitter.com/GxkS7u3zfO
— Gino Hard (@GinoHard_) March 31, 2024
Quick, 38, is from Milford, Connecticut. He has been a trailblazer for American goaltending since his 2007 debut with the Los Angeles Kings. His explosive style and competitive nature redefined the position, and he inspired a new generation of U.S. netminders.
“It’s just recognizing that both of us have become friends over the years and so I’ve always enjoyed competing against him,” Miller said of Quick. The two goaltenders faced off numerous times during their careers. Quick’s Kings battled Miller’s Sabres, Blues, Canucks, and Ducks on the ice.
Quick’s path to greatness began at the University of Massachusetts Amherst. He led the Minutemen to their first NCAA Tournament appearance in his final season. Subsequently, the Kings drafted Quick in the third round of the 2005 NHL Entry Draft. He quickly made his mark in Los Angeles. Quick won the Stanley Cup in 2012 and 2014 and earned the Conn Smythe Trophy as playoff MVP in 2012.
Now, in his first season with the Rangers, Quick has found new life as a backup to Igor Shesterkin. His 17-5-2 record, 2.44 goals-against average, and .916 save percentage are his best marks since the 2017-18 season. Furthermore, the Rangers have significantly benefited from Quick’s veteran presence and timely performances. They lead the league with 50 wins and 104 points.
“It’s a fun team to be a part of,” Quick said of the Rangers. “These guys work hard every day; they push each other. We’ve been finding different ways to win throughout the year. Additionally, we have that confidence and the ability.”
Quick’s impact on American hockey cannot be overstated. His success has paved the way for a new crop of U.S. goaltenders. As a result, Connor Hellebuyck, Thatcher Demko, and Jake Oettinger are now among the NHL’s elite.
With a one-year contract extension recently signed, Quick’s legacy continues to grow. His journey from a small town in Connecticut to the pinnacle of professional hockey inspires young American goaltenders everywhere. It proves that with hard work and dedication, anything is possible.
As the Rangers continue their quest for the Stanley Cup, Jonathan Quick’s record-breaking achievement is a testament to his enduring excellence and the ever-growing impact of American goaltending in the NHL.