NHL: Zamboni driver, David Ayres beats Toronto and becomes a Carolina legend

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Last night in Toronto a 42 year old goalie was pulled from the stands and onto the ice in an emergency situation. The Carolina Hurricanes lost both their goalies by the middle of the second period, and had to sign David Ayres for $500 to finish the game. He did give up two quick goals, but shut down the Leafs in the third to capture a magical moment.

Suiting up

Ayres who works for the Toronto Marlies, the Leafs AHL affiliate stepped on the ice and captured the hearts of every beer league player and hockey fan alike. Social media was blowing up and Davidā€™s wife even took to Twitter to exclaim her feelings and it was hilarious and endearing.

First Star

Although he gave up two goals he did tell his brand new teammates he was nervous and that he would be ready for the third. Ayres sealed the deal in the final stanza stopping all 7 shots he faced and was named the gameā€™s first star with 8 saves on 10 shots.

Once in a Lifetime

After the game, Rod Brindā€™Amour deliverEd a great speech that hit home for veterans and rookies in the room. Hockey is ultimately about the memories and they created a great one.

Ayres couldnā€™t contain his smile as he was being interviewed after what he called a ā€œonce in a lifetimeā€ moment.

Carolina Legend

The Carolina Hurricanes are now selling an Ayres 90 tee shirt with proceeds going to Kidney charity of his choice. Ayres survived a kidney transplant and it is obvious it is a cause close to this new legendā€™s heart. What a story.

Yesterday was also the 40th Anniversary of the Miracle on Ice, maybe David caught some of the magic too. So Zamboni drivers and beer leaguers everywhere, celebrate because your hero has arrived.

By Anthony Scultore

Anthony Scultore has been covering the New York Rangers and the NHL since 2014. His work also appears at... More about Anthony Scultore

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