Advanced Analytics: Yegor Chinakhov Is Now The NHL's All Time Leader In Stick Twirls Per Goal
More often than not, when you are trying to figure out who holds the record for almost any offensive stat in NHL history the answer is Wayne Gretzky. Most goals, most assists, most points, most Art Ross Trophies, most Hart Trophies, the list goes on and on. You name an offensive stat and there's a good chance Wayne Gretzky is at the top of that list.
But last night Yegor Chinakhov, the 21st pick in the 2020 NHL Draft, scored his first career NHL goal. And with that goal came one of the mightiest stick twirls these eyes have seen in ages. Just look at the young man go.
Advertisement
Count 'em up. 3 full rotations, baby. And with authority. Not only do you get 3 smooth rotations, but he then sheathed the sword beautifully to perfection. Holstered at the hip, great speed, the whole thing was a work of art. And with that celly, Yegor Chinakhov has etched his name into NHL history.
Wayne Gretzky scored 894 career goals. Now I haven't gotten a chance to go back and watch every single one of them. But I find it hard to believe he twirled his twig 2,682 times. Mainly because he was using a wooden stick for most of his career. Those things were heavy as shit. You twirl one of those tree branches too many times and you're in for some serious wrist and elbow injuries later in your career. So sure, maybe Chinakhov benefits from being able to twirl the CCM Jetspeed which is coming in at 423 grams. Little lighter on the limbs to twirl around like a maniac. But the numbers speak for themselves. He's currently operating at 3.00 tpg (twirls per goal). Only other play who might be coming close right now would be Patrik Laine.
GOAT twirl.