Artemi Panarin delivered a standout moment during the Los Angeles Kings’ game against the Calgary Flames on Tuesday, and it quickly went viral. While Panarin did score in the shootout, it was the emotion behind the goal that captured everyone’s attention.
The shootout provided the most memorable moment of the night, as Panarin appeared to borrow a signature move from the late Johnny Gaudreau, turning a routine attempt into a heartfelt tribute.
Artemi Panarin’s Shootout Tribute to Johnny Gaudreau
During the shootout at the Scotiabank Saddledome, Panarin, who joined the Kings earlier this season, executed a smooth forehand-to-backhand shelf tuck, a finish long associated with Gaudreau.
Once the puck found the back of the net, Panarin didn’t celebrate. Instead, he kissed his fingers and lifted his hands toward the sky, a quiet but meaningful gesture. The moment quickly sparked comparisons to Gaudreau’s trademark creativity, with fans pointing out just how closely Panarin mirrored the signature move.
NHL analyst Robert Munnich reacted to the goal, saying, “Artemi Panarin stole his shootout move tonight from Johnny Gaudreau.”
Despite Panarin’s shootout tally, the Flames ultimately came out on top. Yegor Sharangovich scored in the fourth round to secure a 3-2 victory for Calgary, putting the final stamp on an already memorable night.
RELATED: Canucks’ Loss Ruins Historic 7-Team Sweep for Canadian Clubs Powered By Oilers, Maple Leafs
The game itself carried additional significance. It unfolded during a broader “Canadian Sweep” attempt, where six of seven Canadian-based teams picked up wins.
While many fans today link the slick backhand finish to Johnny Gaudreau, longtime observers were quick to note that Pavel Datsyuk helped popularize and perfect the move years earlier. Even so, the spotlight that night stayed firmly on honoring Gaudreau’s legacy.
Remembering the Legacy of Johnny Gaudreau
Johnny Gaudreau and his brother Matthew Gaudreau were tragically killed on Aug. 29, 2024, while cycling in Salem County, New Jersey. The brothers were struck by a suspected drunk driver on the eve of their sister Katie Gaudreau’s wedding, a devastating event that sent shockwaves through the global hockey community.
The Calgary connection made Panarin’s tribute even more poignant. Gaudreau spent nine seasons with the Calgary Flames, becoming the face of the franchise and a beloved figure for fans. Even today, chants of “Johnny Hockey” still echo through the Saddledome, and memorials around the arena continue to celebrate his enduring impact.
ALSO READ: Panthers Stanley Cup Champ Matthew Tkachuk’s Touching Tribute To Late Johnny Gaudreau Comes To Light
Though brief, Panarin’s gesture spoke volumes, leaving fans with a heartfelt tribute to a player whose legacy lives on in Calgary and beyond.
