On the 40-year anniversary of the “Miracle on Ice,” another miracle happened. This one took place in Toronto as the Carolina Hurricanes defeated the Maple Leafs, 6-3. The first star and victory went to emergency goaltender David Ayers, a 42-year-old Zamboni driver pressed into service when the Hurricanes’ first two goaltenders were injured.
DO YOU BELIEVE IN MIRACLES?!
— Carolina Hurricanes (@Canes) February 23, 2020
Ayers made eight saves and allowed two goals while filling in for Petr Mrazek and James Reimer.
The Canes’ social media team was all over it.
What a way to make a debut, Dave Ayres pic.twitter.com/1opzaBgR4t
— Carolina Hurricanes (@Canes) February 23, 2020
We’re with you, 90 💪 pic.twitter.com/JBBnnk99FD
— Carolina Hurricanes (@Canes) February 23, 2020
In the hallway before the beginning of the third period:
"For us
For Wally
For Ginner
For Davey"
— Michael Smith (@MSmithCanes) February 23, 2020
Dave Ayres appreciation tweet
— Carolina Hurricanes (@Canes) February 23, 2020
We believe in Dave pic.twitter.com/YnxhFKTLpN
— Carolina Hurricanes (@Canes) February 23, 2020
⭐David Ayres ⭐Emergency Backup Goalie ⭐1st Star ⭐Marlies Zamboni Driver ⭐ pic.twitter.com/rJDt7j0Eps
— Hockey Night in Canada (@hockeynight) February 23, 2020
The Governor of North Carolina, Roy Cooper, was impressed.
I’m ready to make emergency goaltender and zamboni driver David Ayres an honorary North Carolina citizen after courageous @Canes win. Amazing.
— Roy Cooper (@RoyCooperNC) February 23, 2020