Peter Mahovlich was a memorable figure in the
1972 Summit Series.
His first big moment came in "Brother
Night" in game two in Toronto. That was the night that Canada redeemed
themselves after a horrid opening game. Canada was carreid that night by two
sets of brothers - Phil and Tony Esposito and Frank and Peter Mahovlich.
 Peter had what would have been the most memorable
goal of the series had it not been for Paul Henderson's late heroics in game 8.
Mahovlich and Phil Esposito were out killing off a penalty when Espo poked the
puck out of the zone and Peter regained control. The gigantic Mahovlich bared
down on the Soviet defender and as he crossed the Soviet blueline faked a
booming slapshot. Instead of firing the puck Mahovlich pulled up and
dipsy-doodled past the surprised lone man back. Then Mahovlich faked a forehand
shot, went to the backhand, and with his incredible reach was able to tuck the
puck into the net.
To this day Vladislav Tretiak doesn't know how
Mahovlich was able to score that goal. "I played that shot perfectly,"
said the Soviet goalie.
Mahovlich, a star player in the NHL who always
seemed to be overshadowed by flashier teammates, was a key player the rest of
the Summit Series as well, often as penalty killer.
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