Have 3 brothers played in the same NHL game?

By Jayson Panganiban December 12, 2023 19:11

Photo by Getty Images

The National Hockey League (NHL) is known for its rich history and unique stories. One such intriguing tale is the possibility of three brothers playing together in the same NHL game. While it may seem like an unlikely scenario, there have been instances where three brothers have shared the ice in professional hockey's highest level. This article will explore the history, challenges, and achievements of brothers who have accomplished this feat in the NHL.

The Sutter Brothers

The Sutter family is widely recognized for their contributions to the NHL. The six Sutter brothers - Brent, Brian, Darryl, Duane, Rich, and Ron - all played in the NHL during the 1970s and 1980s. While they never played in the same game, the Sutter brothers collectively made a significant impact on the league.

Each brother brought their unique skills and style to the game. Darryl and Brian Sutter were known for their leadership qualities and physical play, while Brent and Rich Sutter were renowned for their offensive prowess. Ron and Duane Sutter also made notable contributions during their NHL careers. The Sutter brothers' success and influence in the league paved the way for future sibling duos.

The Staal Brothers

The Staal brothers - Eric, Jordan, Marc, and Jared - are another set of siblings who have made their mark in the NHL. While Jared Staal did not achieve the same level of success as his brothers, Eric, Jordan, and Marc have all had successful careers in the league.

The Staal brothers' journey to the NHL began when Eric Staal was drafted second overall by the Carolina Hurricanes in 2003. Jordan Staal was drafted second overall by the Pittsburgh Penguins in 2006, while Marc Staal was selected 12th overall by the New York Rangers in the same year.

The opportunity for all three brothers to play together came in the 2012-2013 NHL season when Eric, Jordan, and Marc were all members of the Carolina Hurricanes, Pittsburgh Penguins, and New York Rangers, respectively. Although they did not play in the same game, the Staal brothers' achievement of simultaneously playing in the NHL was a significant milestone.

The Subban Brothers

The Subban brothers - P.K., Malcolm, and Jordan - have also made headlines in the NHL. P.K. Subban, known for his dynamic playing style and charismatic personality, has become one of the league's most recognizable figures. Malcolm Subban, a goaltender, has played for multiple NHL teams, and Jordan Subban has had stints in the American Hockey League.

The Subban brothers' chance to play in the same NHL game occurred during the 2017-2018 season when Malcolm Subban, then playing for the Vegas Golden Knights, faced off against P.K. Subban's Nashville Predators. Although Jordan Subban has not yet reached the NHL, he has played alongside his brothers at various levels of hockey.

Challenges and Achievements

The opportunity for three brothers to play in the same NHL game is undoubtedly rare. Several factors contribute to the difficulty of achieving this feat. Firstly, the chances of three siblings making it to the NHL are already slim, considering the high level of competition and limited roster spots. Secondly, the brothers must be on different teams and have overlapping schedules, making it challenging for them to coincide in the same game.

However, despite the challenges, the accomplishment of three brothers playing together in the NHL offers a unique sense of pride and achievement. It showcases the dedication, talent, and determination of the siblings involved. It also adds to the rich tapestry of NHL history, providing fans with memorable moments to cherish.

While it remains a rare occurrence, three brothers playing in the same NHL game has happened in the past. The Sutter brothers, the Staal brothers, and the Subban brothers have all left their mark on the league, showcasing their skills and leaving a lasting legacy. These instances serve as a testament to the talent and dedication required to reach the pinnacle of professional hockey. As fans, we can only hope to witness more extraordinary moments like these in the future.