A Great Day for Hockey Talk

Episode 16: The Miracle on Ice

Episode Summary

Do you believe in miracles? February 22nd, 2020 marks the 40th anniversary of the “Miracle On Ice”, when the US Olympic Hockey Team delivered what Sports Illustrated declared the “Greatest Moment of the 20th Century” by upsetting the heavily favored Soviets with a  thrilling 4-3 victory on the way to a gold medal. The Penguins have good reason to celebrate this anniversary with pride, having a deeper and longer connection to the Miracle On Ice team than any other NHL Franchise. In this edition of GDFHT, Paul Steigerwald sits down with three men who played significant roles on the team, Craig Patrick, Mike Eruzione, and Mark Johnson. He also talks with the man who provided color analysis on the ABC telecast throughout the teams incredible run, Ken Dryden.

Episode Notes

Highlights include:

• Former Penguins General Manager Craig Patrick’s account of his time as the team’s assistant coach and his relationship with relationship with legendary coach Herb Brooks.
• Team USA Captain Mike Eruzione’s reflections on the teams pre-Olympics preparation that included more than 60 exhibition games and his description of what Patrick meant to the team.
• Team USA MVP (and former Penguin) Mark Johnson describing his impressions of Soviet hockey and the effect Herb Brooks’ famous pre-game speeches had on the team.
• ABC Broadcaster and former Montreal Canadiens goalie, Ken Dryden’s unique psychological narrative of the improbable upset.