What is the highest scoring NHL game ever?

Imagine a hockey game where the puck never stops moving and both teams just keep scoring. On December 11, 1985, the Edmonton Oilers and Chicago Blackhawks created one of the wildest nights in NHL history. The final score was 12-9, with a stunning 21 combined goals. If you're wondering what is the highest scoring NHL game, this legendary matchup is pretty much the answer.

The unforgettable night in Edmonton

The Oilers came out firing from the opening puck drop. Edmonton scored the first six goals and dominated the early action. Wayne Gretzky and Mark Messier led the offensive onslaught with their speed and skill. Jari Kurri also contributed to Edmonton's explosive scoring (seriously, the guy couldn't miss). Despite being down big, the Blackhawks refused to quit. Chicago scored 9 goals and stayed competitive throughout the game. Steve Larmer sparked the comeback attempts with several goals of his own.

Why modern hockey looks so diferent

Today's NHL looks nothing like the 1980s. Defensive systems have become much smarter and tighter. Goaltenders train harder and use better techniques now. The league also changed rules to protect goalies and reduce high scoring. Games with 20 or more combined goals almost never happen anymore. When you see a 5-4 final score, fans get genuinely excited. Back in 1985 21 goals in one game was just another wild night on ice.

The legendary players who made it happen

Gretzky proved why people call him "The Great One." Messier showed his power forward style that made him basically unstoppable. Kurri's offensive instincts lit the lamp multiple times. On Chicago's side, Larmer battled hard to keep the game close. Scoring five or more goals in a single game is incredibly rare, honestly. Only 64 times in NHL history has a player done this. These performances showed why the 1980s were known for explosive offensive hockey.

How this game changed our view of hockey

That December night teaches us something important about hockey evolution. The game shows how defensive strategies and goaltending have improved over decades. Teams now focus on preventing chances rather than just scoring more. Fans still remember this remarkable matchup because it represents an era of pure offensive excitement. The 1985 Oilers-Blackhawks game remains a benchmark for high-scoring NHL action and will likely never be matched again.