Murray Oliver’s early days in Boston were anything but smooth. Acquired from the Detroit Red Wings late in the 1960-61 season, Oliver arrived with promise after scoring 20 goals in just 54 games as an NHL rookie. But his production dipped the following year, and by the start of the 1961-62 campaign, confidence was clearly being tested.
Through his first 32 games with the Bruins that season, Oliver had managed only three goals. Enter December 23, 1961, a road date against the Toronto Maple Leafs at Maple Leaf Gardens and a night that would change the narrative.
Oliver opened the scoring at 8:31 of the first period, beating Johnny Bower with help from Johnny Bucyk and Leo Boivin. It was an early spark that set the tone for Boston. Late in the second period, he struck again, scoring his fifth goal of the season at 18:47 with rookie Ed Westfall earning the assist. The tally sent the Bruins into the intermission holding a commanding 5-1 lead.
Toronto pushed back hard in the third period. Goals from Dick Duff, Frank Mahovlich, and George Armstrong cut the Bruins’ advantage to 6-4 and briefly brought the Gardens crowd to life. But Oliver wasn’t finished.
With just 1:16 remaining, he completed his hat trick with an unassisted goal at 18:44, sealing a 7-4 Bruins victory. Earlier, Oliver had also set up Bucyk for a goal, giving him a four-point night. Bucyk and Don McKenney followed closely with three points apiece.
In goal, Don Head delivered one of his strongest performances of the season, stopping 38 of 42 shots and repeatedly frustrating Toronto shooters. Bower, meanwhile, endured a rough outing, surrendering seven goals on just 28 shots.
Special teams played a quiet but decisive role. Only five minor penalties were called, yet Boston capitalized twice on three power-play chances, both opportunities coming while Bob Pulford served time in the penalty box.
Stories From The Epic History Of NHL Hockey (Volume IV)
Dive into unforgettable tales from NHL history — the biggest moments, legendary players, and classic rivalries.
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