Remember When: Mark Messier Scores Hat Trick, 500th Goal

In the dynamic realm of hockey, the sport offers a plethora of highlights that linger in our memories. The New York Rangers, a team with a rich history, have contributed numerous moments that resonate with many fans. In this feature titled “Remember When,” we delve into some of these moments—some noteworthy, others less so.

In this installment of “Remember When,” we take a trip back to November 6th, 1995, at Madison Square Garden, where Mark Messier, the captain of the Rangers, etched his name in hockey history. Messier achieved a remarkable feat by scoring three goals, including his 500th career goal, leading the New York Rangers to a 4-2 victory over the Calgary Flames that night. At the time, Messier ranked seventh on the career points list with 1,385.

With 7:28 remaining in the game, Messier secured his place in NHL history by unleashing a wrist shot that beat Flames goaltender Rick Tabaracci, making him the 21st player ever to reach the 500-goal milestone. This marked Messier’s 21st career hat trick. The defining moment occurred with a snap shot from the right circle, sealing the hat trick and finalizing the score in favor of the Rangers.

Messier’s first goal occurred at 6:51 in the second period when he capitalized on a rebound from a shot by Bruce Driver, who was making his Rangers debut after a 12-year stint with the Devils. The second goal, a powerful shot from the left circle, came at 4:18 in the third period.

Messier’s milestone goal prompted Tabaracci’s exit from the game. Ultimately retiring with the Rangers in 2004, Messier amassed 1,887 points, including 694 goals and 1,193 assists. His illustrious career also featured six Stanley Cups, with his final one achieved with the Rangers.