Brad Fast: The Defenceman Who Scored the NHL's Final Tie Goal
In the long and storied history of the National Hockey League (NHL), certain players are remembered for their longevity, while others are etched into the record books for a single, extraordinary moment. Brad Fast, a Canadian professional defenceman, belongs to the latter category. While his career spanned multiple leagues and continents, he holds a unique distinction that connects him to a pivotal shift in how hockey games are decided.
Born on February 21, 1980, in Fort St. John, British Columbia, Fast developed his skills in the Canadian amateur circuits before rising through the collegiate ranks and eventually making his mark on the professional stage across North America and Europe.
ไม่มีภาพประกอบKey Facts
- Position: Defence
- NHL Debut Milestone: One of only four players to score a goal in his only NHL game.
- Historical Distinction: Scored the last goal in the NHL that resulted in a tie game before the introduction of the shoot-out.
- Collegiate Success: A standout at Michigan State University and a CCHA All-Tournament selection.
- International Career: Played professionally in Switzerland, Austria, and South Korea.
Early Career and Collegiate Success
Fast's journey began in his hometown with the Fort St. John Flyers. He eventually moved to the Prince George Spruce Kings in the British Columbia Hockey League (BCHL), where his talent was immediately evident. His performance earned him the 1998-99 BCHL Best Defenseman and Most Sportsmanlike Player awards.
Following his success in the BCHL, Fast was selected in the third round (84th overall) of the 1999 NHL Entry Draft by the Carolina Hurricanes. He transitioned to the collegiate level, enrolling at Michigan State University. As a member of the Michigan State Spartans, Fast became a premier offensive defenceman, serving as team captain and participating in the famous "The Cold War" outdoor event alongside teammate John-Michael Liles.
Collegiate Achievements
During his four seasons at Michigan State, Fast was highly decorated, earning spots on the CCHA All-Tournament Team and the All-CCHA First Team. His defensive prowess was recognized with the CCHA Best Defensive Defenseman award in 2002–03, and he was named an AHCA West Second-Team All-American.
ไม่มีภาพประกอบA Historic NHL Debut
Fast signed a professional contract with the Carolina Hurricanes toward the end of the 2002–03 season, initially playing for their American Hockey League (AHL) affiliate, the Lowell Lock Monsters. His moment of NHL immortality arrived on April 4, 2004.
In his first and only NHL game, Fast scored a crucial goal with just 2:26 remaining in the game. Assisted by former Spartan Rod Brind'Amour, the goal tied the game and sent it into overtime. This moment was significant not just for Fast, but for the league itself: it was the last goal ever scored that resulted in a tie game in the NHL, as the league transitioned to the shoot-out format the following season.
Professional Journey Across the Globe
Following his stint in the NHL and AHL, Fast's career took him on an international tour. He played for the Manchester Monarchs in the AHL and spent time in the ECHL with the Florida Everblades. His career then transitioned to Europe, where he played for several notable clubs:
- SCL Tigers: Swiss National League (NLA)
- ERC Ingolstadt: German DEL
- EC Red Bull Salzburg: Austrian EBEL
In 2008, Fast moved to South Korea to join Anyang Halla in the Asia League (AL). He made history there by becoming the first import player in the franchise's history to be named assistant captain. He enjoyed significant success with the club, helping them secure ALH championships in both the 2009–2010 and 2010–2011 seasons before his eventual retirement.
ไม่มีภาพประกอบCareer Statistics Summary
| Season | Team | League | GP | G | A | Pts |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2002–03 | Michigan State University | NCAA | 39 | 11 | 35 | 46 |
| 2003–04 | Carolina Hurricanes | NHL | 1 | 0 | 1 | 0 |
| 2003–04 | Lowell Lock Monsters | AHL | 79 | 10 | 25 | 35 |
| 2008–09 | Anyang Halla | AL | 33 | 7 | 27 | 34 |
| 2010–11 | Anyang Halla | AL | 22 | 3 | 10 | 13 |
Frequently Asked Questions
How many NHL games did Brad Fast play?
Brad Fast played exactly one game in the National Hockey League, appearing for the Carolina Hurricanes on April 4, 2004.
Why is Brad Fast's NHL goal historically significant?
His goal was the final goal in NHL history to result in a tie game. The following season, the league implemented the shoot-out to ensure every game had a winner.
What was Brad Fast's role at Anyang Halla?
Fast was a key player for Anyang Halla, serving as an assistant captain—making him the first import player in the franchise's history to hold that position—and winning two Asia League championships.
Where did Brad Fast play during his collegiate years?
Fast played his collegiate hockey for the Michigan State Spartans in the CCHA.
What position did Brad Fast play?
Brad Fast was a professional defenceman, known for his offensive capabilities during his time in college and the AHL.