In a thrilling 5-2 win over the Buffalo Sabres, Pittsburgh Penguins goaltender Alex Nedeljkovic etched his name in the NHL history books. Not only did he stop 40 of 42 shots, but he also became the first goalie in league history to record a goal and an assist in the same game. 
The historic moment came with under three minutes remaining in regulation, when the Sabres pulled their goalie in a desperate attempt to erase a 4-2 deficit. Nedeljkovic, sensing an opportunity, retrieved the puck behind his net and fired it almost 200 feet down the ice, into the empty net. The crowd erupted as Nedeljkovic’s teammates congratulated him on his remarkable achievement.
But Nedeljkovic’s night wasn’t done yet. Earlier in the game, he had recorded an assist on Cody Glass’s power-play goal in the second period. This assist, combined with his goal, made him the first goalie in NHL history to achieve this feat.
Nedeljkovic’s impressive puck-handling skills have been on display throughout his career. Prior to last night’s game, he had recorded goals in the ECHL and AHL, making him the only goalie to find the back of the net at all three levels.
Speaking to reporters after the game, Nedeljkovic expressed his relief and excitement. “I’ve always enjoyed playing the puck,” he said. “Growing up, I watched some of the best guys do it. Marty Turco and Marty Brodeur were two guys I watched a lot and learned a lot from in terms of puck-handling.”
Nedeljkovic’s historic performance marks the second straight season in which a Penguins goalie has scored a goal. Tristan Jarry achieved this feat in a 4-2 win over the Tampa Bay Lightning on November 30, 2023.
As the Penguins celebrate Nedeljkovic’s remarkable achievement, fans and analysts alike will be eager to see what the future holds for this talented goaltender. One thing is certain: Alex Nedeljkovic has cemented his place in NHL history.
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