When the Buffalo Sabres entered the NHL in 1970, they needed a cornerstone. They found one immediately in Gilbert Perreault.
Selected first overall at the 1970 NHL Amateur Draft, Perreault arrived with enormous expectations and wasted no time delivering.
A Historic First Goal
On October 10, 1970, the Sabres played their very first NHL game on the road against the Pittsburgh Penguins at the legendary Civic Arena (The Igloo).
With the game tied 1-1 heading into the third period, history unfolded.
At 11:26 of the final frame, Perreault scored his first NHL goal against goaltender Les Binkley. The goal came on the power play, with Greg Polis serving a tripping penalty, and was assisted by Kevin O'Shea and Gerry Meehan.
That single moment carried historic weight:
First goal of Perreault’s Hall of Fame career (512 total)
First power-play goal in Sabres history
First game-winning goal in franchise history
Buffalo went on to win 2-1.
Crozier’s Early Backbone
While Perreault provided the spark, goaltender Roger Crozier was just as vital to the victory.
Facing heavy pressure, Crozier stopped 35 of 36 shots, backstopping the expansion Sabres to their first-ever win. Acquired from the Detroit Red Wings, he would serve as Buffalo’s primary goaltender during their formative years.
Reality Hits But a Star Emerges
Despite the dream start, expansion reality quickly set in.
The Sabres stumbled badly after opening night, enduring a brutal 1-11-1 stretch in which they were outscored 57-17 and shut out three times.
But even through the struggles, one constant remained: Perreault’s brilliance.
He finished his rookie season with 38 goals, capturing the Calder Trophy as the league’s top rookie. His performance helped Buffalo avoid last place, finishing fifth in the seven-team East Division.
"Then Perreault Said to Rico…": The Best Buffalo Sabres Stories Ever Told
A collection of the greatest Buffalo Sabres tales — from unforgettable moments to iconic personalities in franchise history.
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