‘I was like a little kid’: Pekka Rinne becomes first netminder in six years to score a goalie goal

Nashville Predators goaltender Pekka Rinne scored in Smashville’s 5-2 win over the Chicago Blackhawks, Thursday.

After corraling a dump-in with his pad, Rinne shot the puck from behind his net towards Chicago’s empty twine. After several fortunate bounces, the puck slid into the net, sending the Predators into a jubilant celebration that included lots of laughing.

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The Finnish goaltender was asked how it felt to score after the game.

“Pretty unbelievable, not going to lie,” Rinne said. I was like a little kid, obviously never scored a goal before so it was for sure a special thing. I like to handle the puck so I’ve always dreamed of scoring a goal. Finally, it happens. I can check that box.”

Rinne also admitted that it’s not something he really worked on at practice.

“Sometimes when I just fool around,” Rinne said. “But yeah, I mean, if there’s a situation like tonight: two-goal lead, puck comes to me, it’s flat on the ice. I’ll give it a shot. That was for sure special.”

Rinne is the first goaltender in six seasons to score and the 12th all-time.

Rinne joins Chris Mason as the only Preds goalies in franchise history to score.

Congratulations, Pekka. That is a puck worth framing.

Screenshot: FOX Sports