On February 11, 2017, Madison Square Garden witnessed one of the greatest milestones in New York Rangers history when legendary goaltender Henrik Lundqvist earned the 400th victory of his NHL career. For Rangers fans fortunate enough to be in attendance, it was an unforgettable night celebrating one of the franchise’s all-time great players. The article below is a firsthand account of that memorable evening.
Photo: Henrik Lundqvist by Janey Roberts Copyright © 2017
Henrik Lundqvist Records His 400th NHL Victory
In last night’s New York Rangers-Colorado Avalanche game, New York Rangers legendary goalie Henrik Lundqvist recorded his 400th win. On a cold night at Madison Square Garden on February 11, 2017, Henrik Lundqvist became only the 12th goalie in NHL history to reach the 400-win mark. Sitting right behind the net, it was an amazing experience to watch one of the greatest goalies of all time play at a level few NHL goalies ever achieve. It was a sold-out New York Rangers crowd that was loud, rowdy, and full of Broadway cheer. There was no better place to be in New York City than Madison Square Garden on a Saturday night with the Rangers in town.
Henrik Lundqvist’s 400th win also marked the New York Rangers’ fifth win in a row. The Rangers scored first in the opening period when Kevin Klein scored after winning a faceoff. After the Colorado Avalanche scored two goals to take the lead, Kevin Klein scored again to tie the game. In the third period, with overtime looming, Rick Nash scored from the slot to give the Rangers a 3 to 2 lead. After the Avalanche pulled their goalie with almost two minutes remaining, Kevin Hayes scored an empty-net goal to put the game on ice and secure Henrik Lundqvist’s milestone 400th victory.
Henrik Lundqvist’s first NHL victory came on October 13, 2005, against the New Jersey Devils. The night also marked Lundqvist’s 11th straight start and fourth straight victory. Rangers coach Alain Vigneault appeared determined to give Lundqvist the opportunity to record his 400th win at Madison Square Garden. I can tell you personally, the crowd really appreciated it. IT WAS LOUD!!
Henrik Lundqvist Photo: Janey Roberts
More New York Rangers History
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Updated June 25, 2026
