Everyone who plays sports dreams about performing at the peak of their sport during important matches as children, aiming for historical significance while competing for championships. Recently, Sam Reinhart made that dream a reality during a game on Tuesday night.
Reinhart, a center for the Florida Panthers, scored four goals leading to a dominant 5-1 victory over the Edmonton Oilers in game 6 of the Stanley Cup Final. This remarkable feat also secured back-to-back titles for the Panthers and marked his name in the history books, tying the record for the most goals in a single Final game, a milestone achieved by only five other players since the Finals commenced in 1914.
Note: Reinhart’s last two goals were against an empty net, but both occurred beyond the Oilers’ attacking zone.
As the Panthers revel in South Florida, let’s reflect on the greatest individual performances in recent championship history. Each highlight must feature a series-clinching game and a title-winning player.
1. LSU QB Joe Burrow vs. Clemson (2020 National Championship Game)
After an eight-touchdown performance in the semifinals, Burrow nearly replicated that success in the final. He completed 31 of 49 passes for 463 yards, achieving five touchdown passes while rushing for 58 yards and another touchdown.
Burrow propelled LSU from an early 10-point deficit against the defending champions, executing three consecutive scoring drives in the second quarter. His 29-yard run just before halftime defined a 95-yard journey that gave the Tigers a 28-17 lead.
Burrow secured the victory with two more touchdown passes in the second half, concluding an unparalleled passing season.
2. Alabama WR DeVonta Smith vs. Ohio State (2021 National Championship Game)
The Heisman Trophy winner set records for receptions (12) and touchdowns (3) in a title game, achieving this remarkable feat in just one half. His significant second-quarter catch, a 42-yard pass from Mac Jones, propelled Alabama to a 35-17 halftime lead. However, Smith sustained a finger injury early in the second half, forcing him to exit early. Despite this, he contributed immensely to Alabama’s triumph, finishing with 215 receiving yards in a decisive 52-24 win.
3. Milwaukee Bucks F Giannis Antetokounmpo vs. Phoenix Suns (2021 NBA Finals, Game 6)
In his inaugural NBA Finals, Antetokounmpo dominated with an average of 40 points per game leading up to Game 6. He excelled under pressure, contributing clutch plays in previous games, including a game-sealing block in Game 4. Still, he saved his best effort for Game 6, where he scored 50 points in a crucial 105-98 victory against the Suns, aided by 14 rebounds and five blocks.
4. Atlanta Braves OF Jorge Soler vs. Houston Astros (2021 World Series)
Prior to Game 6, Soler made a notable impact during the World Series, exhibiting potential as a key trade acquisition. After hitting home runs in previous games, he stepped up in Game 6, smashing a three-run homer that cleared Minute Maid Park, propelling his team to a 7-0 victory and securing World Series MVP status.
5. Los Angeles Rams WR Cooper Kupp vs. Cincinnati Bengals (Super Bowl LVI)
Kupp’s superb season culminated in an exceptional Super Bowl performance. He recorded eight receptions for 92 yards and two touchdowns, including a closing touchdown that reclaimed the lead for the Rams in a nail-biting 23-20 win.
6. Golden State Warriors PG Stephen Curry vs. Boston Celtics (2022 NBA Finals)
Curry, a star performer, showcased his skill, notably in Game 4 and led his team in the decisive Game 6, securing the championship with steady contributions in the second half, including 34 points, and capturing his first Finals MVP.
7. Argentina Striker Lionel Messi vs. France (2022 World Cup Final)
In an iconic final, Messi converted a goal early in the match, helping Argentina obtain a significant lead. Although Kylian Mbappe tied the game, Messi’s contributions, including both scoring in penalty kicks and securing a historic World Cup win, showcased his immense talent.
8. Boston Celtics F Jayson Tatum vs. Dallas Mavericks (2024 NBA Finals, Game 5)
Despite lackluster scoring throughout the series, Tatum’s performance initiated a comeback in Game 5, concluding with 31 points, helping to seal the Celtics’ 18th championship title.
9. PSG Midfielder Desire Doue vs. Inter Milan (2025 UEFA Champions League Final)
In a remarkable display of skill for a 19-year-old, Doue delivered a stand-out performance scoring two goals and earning man of the match honors in a decisive victory for PSG.
10. Florida Panthers C Sam Reinhart vs. Edmonton Oilers (2025 Stanley Cup Final, Game 6)
Reinhart’s quartet of goals solidified his legacy, marking him as one of the select few to score four in a Stanley Cup Final, etching his name in history alongside legendary players.
Sam Reinhart scored four goals in the Panthers’ Game 6 Stanley Cup victory
