James van Riemsdyk's Success and Achievements in Timeline

A closer look at the biggest achievements of James van Riemsdyk. Awards, milestones, and records that define success.

James van Riemsdyk (JVR) is an American professional ice hockey left winger currently playing for the Detroit Red Wings of the NHL. He previously played for the Toronto Maple Leafs (2012-2018) and the Philadelphia Flyers (until 2023).

Sections (3)

Full Timeline Career & Achievements Success & Recognition

1957: Record Holder

On March 29, 2014, van Riemsdyk tied the NHL record for the fastest goal from the start of a period, joining Claude Provost, who set the record in 1957.

1975: Flyers' Comeback

In 2010, van Riemsdyk was part of a comeback effort as the Flyers battled back from being down 3-0. This was the first time a team had come back from a 3-0 deficit to win an NHL playoff series since the New York Islanders defeated the Pittsburgh Penguins in 1975.

1986: Record Holder

On March 29, 2014, van Riemsdyk tied the NHL record for the fastest goal from the start of a period, joining Denis Savard, who set the record in 1986.

2006: World U-17 Hockey Challenge

In 2006, van Riemsdyk represented the United States at the World U-17 Hockey Challenge and helped the team reach the gold-medal match, also appearing at the 2006 IIHF World U18 Championships.

2007: World U18 Championships

In 2007, van Riemsdyk tied for the tournament lead with 12 points at the World U18 Championships, helping Team USA win a silver medal. He was named the top forward and most valuable player of the tournament, and named to the All-Star team. He also made his first World Junior Ice Hockey Championships (WJC) appearance in 2007.

2013: Jersey Retirement

In 2013, the Ocean Ice Palace in New Jersey retired James van Riemsdyk's No. 21 jersey, recognizing his achievements and contributions to hockey.

March 29, 2014: Fastest Goal Record

On March 29, 2014, James van Riemsdyk tied the NHL record for the fastest goal from the start of a period, scoring four seconds into the second period against Steve Mason of the Flyers.

April 3, 2014: Scored 30 Goals

On April 3, 2014, James van Riemsdyk scored his 30th goal, marking the first season he reached that milestone. The milestone came in a 4–3 overtime victory over the Bruins.

November 4, 2014: 200th Career Point

On November 4, 2014, James van Riemsdyk scored his 200th career point in a game against the Arizona Coyotes.

2016: Ranked No. 100 in Toronto Maple Leafs History

In 2016, as part of the Toronto Maple Leafs' centennial anniversary celebrations, James van Riemsdyk was ranked No. 100 on the list of the 100 greatest players in the franchise's history.

December 19, 2017: 20,000th Goal in Maple Leafs History

On December 19, 2017, van Riemsdyk scored the 20,000th goal in Maple Leafs history during an 8–1 defeat of the Hurricanes. The milestone occurred on the 100th anniversary of the franchise's first goal.

2017: Stanley Cup Playoffs

In 2017, after losing their final regular-season game, the Leafs faced the Washington Capitals in the first round of the Stanley Cup playoffs, but Washington eliminated Toronto with an overtime win in game six.