A smooth-skating forward who made gliding across the ice look effortless, Sergei Fedorov was a key piece of the Detroit Red Wings’ success throughout his time there. A two-time Selke Trophy winner, Fedorov was as reliable defensively as he was dangerous with the puck, impacting the game at both ends of the rink. Entering the 2002 Stanley Cup Playoffs with two championships already on his resume, Fedorov once again rose to the occasion when his team needed him most.
Locked in a tough first-round battle with the Vancouver Canucks, Fedorov delivered a highlight-reel moment in Game 5. Late in the first period, he exploded up the ice, beating his check to get to Brett Hull’s pass in front of the net. In full stride, Fedorov reached out and, with one hand on his stick, backhanded the puck past the goaltender for a sensational goal that showcased his elite skill and poise. Fedorov finished the postseason with 19 points, tied for third-most among all players, as the Red Wings went on to capture their third Stanley Cup in six seasons.