Miracle on Ice in Toronto as Hurricanes win with 42-year-old emergency goaltender

On the 40-year anniversary of the “Miracle on Ice,” another miracle happened. This one took place in Toronto as the Carolina Hurricanes defeated the Maple Leafs, 6-3. The first star and victory went to emergency goaltender David Ayers, a 42-year-old Zamboni driver pressed into service when the Hurricanes’ first two goaltenders were injured.

DO YOU BELIEVE IN MIRACLES?!

— Carolina Hurricanes (@Canes) February 23, 2020

Ayers made eight saves and allowed two goals while filling in for Petr Mrazek and James Reimer.

The Canes’ social media team was all over it.

What a way to make a debut, Dave Ayres pic.twitter.com/1opzaBgR4t

— Carolina Hurricanes (@Canes) February 23, 2020

We’re with you, 90 💪 pic.twitter.com/JBBnnk99FD

— Carolina Hurricanes (@Canes) February 23, 2020

In the hallway before the beginning of the third period:

"For us

For Wally

For Ginner

For Davey"

— Michael Smith (@MSmithCanes) February 23, 2020

Dave Ayres appreciation tweet

— Carolina Hurricanes (@Canes) February 23, 2020

We believe in Dave pic.twitter.com/YnxhFKTLpN

— Carolina Hurricanes (@Canes) February 23, 2020

⭐David Ayres ⭐Emergency Backup Goalie ⭐1st Star ⭐Marlies Zamboni Driver ⭐ pic.twitter.com/rJDt7j0Eps

— Hockey Night in Canada (@hockeynight) February 23, 2020

The Governor of North Carolina, Roy Cooper, was impressed.

I’m ready to make emergency goaltender and zamboni driver David Ayres an honorary North Carolina citizen after courageous @Canes win. Amazing.

— Roy Cooper (@RoyCooperNC) February 23, 2020