Russian Goaltender Breaks The World Record For Saves In A Heartbreaking 5 OT Loss

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Tyler Ball
March 16, 2024 (7:31 PM)

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In Russia several leagues are already well into their playoff runs. In the second tier of Russian pro hockey the VHL one goaltender broke the record for the most saves in a game.

Young Russian Goaltender Breaks Single Game Saves Record

Every year in the NHL there is a game in the playoffs that seems to go on forever. In these games, goaltenders are asked to stand on their heads for hours on end. This was the case in Russia's VHL playoffs for goalie Artemi Pleshkov. After four overtimes Pleshkov was at an incredible 104 saves.

ONE HUNDRED AND FOUR SAVES ‼️
#SKANeva goaltender Artemi Pleshkov has stopped 104/104 after four overtimes. 😮 #VHLquarterfinals

His team however just could not put one behind the opposing goalie. This meant Pleshkov would need to last another period as the game went into a 5th overtime.

Record Breaking Performance Ends In Heartbreak

Despite his best efforts, Pleshkov could not keep his team in the game for long enough. After 126 shots on goal one finally snuck past Pleshkov ending the game and SKA Neva's season.

HEARTBREAKING LOSS 💔

#SKANeva Artemi Pleshkov stops 125/126 as his team loses in the fifth overtime.

SKA Neva eliminated from the #VHLplayoffs

After all was said and done Pleshkov's efforts were not enough and his season in the VHL will end. However, the 21-year-old goalie has certainly caught the attention of the hockey community. Despite being only 5'10 it will be interesting to see if any NHL teams come calling to sign the young goalie.