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Goalies Clash in Rare NHL Fight; Sharks Prevail

1/20/2026

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Summary

Story summary

On January 19, 2026, Florida Panthers goalie Sergei Bobrovsky fought San Jose Sharks goalie Alex Nedeljkovic, the first goalie fight for both in the NHL.
The altercation followed a hit on Sharks forward Vincent Desharnais, which prompted Bobrovsky to skate 200 feet to confront Nedeljkovic.
Both goalies received five-minute penalties for fighting and two-minute minors for leaving their creases.
The Sharks won the game 4-1.

History

Historical Context

The NHL's goalie fights gained prominence in the 1990s, notably with Ron Hextall's dual achievement of scoring and fighting in a single game in 1990. This trend reflects the evolving role of goalies, who increasingly engaged in physical play. The recent altercation between Sergei Bobrovsky and Alex Nedeljkovic echoes this legacy, emphasizing the emotional intensity and strategic impact of such confrontations in modern hockey.

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Story summary

On January 19, 2026, Florida Panthers goalie Sergei Bobrovsky fought San Jose Sharks goalie Alex Nedeljkovic, the first goalie fight for both in the NHL.
The altercation followed a hit on Sharks forward Vincent Desharnais, which prompted Bobrovsky to skate 200 feet to confront Nedeljkovic.
Both goalies received five-minute penalties for fighting and two-minute minors for leaving their creases.
The Sharks won the game 4-1.

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