Owen Tippett's incredible goal went viral around the hockey world on Thursday night, and even Philadelphia Flyers head coach John Tortorella was amazed.
The 24-year-old winger scored twice against the Dallas Stars, but it was undoubtedly his second success, the last for his team in a 5-1 win that turned heads.
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On a one-on-one, Tippett spun around before surprising goalkeeper Jake Oettinger with a backhand shot high up the field. Many were quick to call this net the best of the season so far.
“I have never seen a goal like that,” Tortorella said at a press conference. I've seen a lot of great goals, but I haven't seen one like this in a long time.
That's a compliment that says a lot about the man known for his grumpy personality. It must also be said that “Torts” has been a coach in the National League since 1989 and has seen goals galore.
“He has a chance to be special,” he said of Tippett. He feels good about his playing, he shakes the strings more often with his stroke.
The Ontario native has truly found his niche in Philadelphia after a more disappointing start to his career with the Florida Panthers. Expectations were high for the tenth player selected in the 2017 draft and he is finally showing his immense potential.
Tippett was a breakout player last year with 27 goals and 49 points in 77 games. With 18 goals and 29 points in 45 games, he is on track to surpass his personal records this season.