Legends of Hockey

The Hockey Legacy of Jonathan Quick

Born in Milford, Connecticut, Jonathan Quick’s love for hockey began on frozen ponds, where he honed his reflexes by stopping pucks fired by his older brother. His unyielding determination caught the eye of scouts, leading him to the University of Massachusetts Amherst, where he shattered records and showcased his trademark flexibility. Quick’s rise wasn’t linear—his early NHL days were marked by grueling AHL stints, but his breakout 2011-12 season silenced doubters as he backstopped the Kings to their first Stanley Cup with a .946 playoff save percentage, a modern-era marvel.

Quick’s 2012 Conn Smythe Trophy performance was a masterclass in clutch goaltending, including a 41-save shutout in Game 3 of the Finals against the Devils. His 2014 Cup run was equally legendary, highlighted by a gravity-defying stick save on Marian Gaborik in the Western Conference Final. Quick’s style—flopping, diving, and sprawling—wasn’t textbook, but it was electrifying. He thrived under pressure, earning the nickname 'Quick Strike' for his ability to snatch victory from the jaws of defeat.

Beyond the Cups, Quick’s legacy includes Olympic gold with Team USA in 2010 and a reputation as one of the most agile goalies of his generation. Post-retirement, he’s mentored young goalies, emphasizing adaptability. A lesser-known fact? Quick once played an entire period with a broken skate blade, refusing to leave the net until intermission—a snapshot of his toughness.

Jonathan Quick