Yvan Cournoyer Clinches 1973 Stanley Cup For Montreal Canadiens

The 1972-73 Montreal Canadiens were a powerhouse, losing just ten games during the regular season and storming through the playoffs. After dispatching the Buffalo Sabres and Philadelphia Flyers, the Habs faced the Chicago Blackhawks in the Stanley Cup Final.

Chicago battled hard, scoring 15 goals in their two wins, but Montreal’s speed and depth ultimately proved too much. The series ended in six games with Yvan Cournoyer at the center of the celebration.

On May 10, 1973, Cournoyer capped off a brilliant postseason by scoring the Cup-clinching goal in Game Six. With the teams tied 4-4 heading into the third, he beat Tony Esposito at 8:13, his 15th goal of the playoffs, on a setup from Jacques Lemaire to give Montreal the lead for good. The Canadiens went on to win 6-4, securing another championship.

Cournoyer added assists on goals by Frank Mahovlich and Marc Tardif, finishing the playoffs with 25 points in 17 games. His 15 goals set a new playoff record at the time, surpassing Mahovlich’s 14 from 1971. Though the record has since been topped by Reggie Leach and Jari Kurri (19 each), Cournoyer’s performance remains one of the great playoff runs in Canadiens history.

The Conn Smythe Trophy was the only major individual award of his career, but it was a fitting tribute to the “Roadrunner’s” speed, leadership, and clutch scoring. In total, Yvan Cournoyer captured eight Stanley Cups, all with Montreal, before earning induction into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 1982.

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NHL Hockey Trivia: Yvan Cournoyer

Much more NHL hockey trivia can be found at our website: World's Best Hockey Trivia

1. What nickname was Yvan Cournoyer best known by during his NHL career?

The Rocket
The Roadrunner
The Pocket Rocket
The Flying Frenchman

2. How many Stanley Cups did Yvan Cournoyer win with the Montreal Canadiens?

6
7
8
9

3. In which year did Cournoyer win the Conn Smythe Trophy as playoff MVP?

1971
1973
1975
1977

4. What was Cournoyer’s career-high goal total in a single NHL season?

36
40
47
50

5. Yvan Cournoyer was inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in which year?

1979
1980
1982
1984

When Phil Myre and Dan Bouchard Faced Off As Rivals For The First Time

In the early years of the Atlanta Flames, Phil Myre and Dan Bouchard shared goaltending duties and helped build the foundation for the franchise starting in the 1972-73 NHL season. The tandem was split up when, on December 12, 1977, Myre, along with Curt Bennett and Barrie Gibbs, was traded to the St. Louis Blues for Yves Bélanger, Bob MacMillan, and Dick Redmond.

Just over two weeks later, fate brought the two former teammates face-to-face. On December 29, 1977, the Blues visited the Omni in Atlanta for the first meeting between the two teams since the deal. Both Myre and Bouchard got the start, but the night quickly took a twist. After Claude Larose scored to give St. Louis a 3-2 lead early in the second period, Bouchard was pulled and replaced by Yves Bélanger, who had been part of the same trade.

From that point on, it became a showdown between the two goalies traded for each other. Bouchard had allowed three goals on twelve shots, while Bélanger stood tall in relief, stopping 16 of 17 shots. Myre, facing 34 shots from his old teammates, allowed five goals as Atlanta emerged with a 5-4 victory. Curt Bennett added two assists against his former club, while Bob MacMillan picked up one point for his new team.

When the two teams met again on March 15, 1978, this time in St. Louis, the goaltending story flipped. Bélanger, once again in net for Atlanta, was brilliant with 35 saves and even an assist on Bob MacMillan’s opening goal in a 6-2 Flames win. Myre struggled in the opposite crease, allowing six goals on 27 shots.

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NHL Hockey Trivia: Phil Myre & Dan Bouchard

Much more NHL hockey trivia can be found at our website: World's Best Hockey Trivia

1. In what season did Phil Myre and Dan Bouchard first share goaltending duties for the Atlanta Flames?

1971-72
1972-73
1973-74
1974-75

2. Phil Myre and Dan Bouchard helped the Flames record their first-ever playoff appearance in which NHL season?

1973-74
1974-75
1975-76
1976-77

3. Which goaltender recorded more wins for the Atlanta Flames overall before the team relocated to Calgary?

Phil Myre
Dan Bouchard
They finished tied
Yves Bélanger

4. What was notable about the goaltending rotation between Myre and Bouchard during their time in Atlanta?

They alternated starts almost evenly for several seasons
Bouchard was the starter and Myre only played occasionally
Myre played only home games, Bouchard only road games
They never actually played in the same season

5. Before joining the Flames, which organization originally drafted Dan Bouchard?

Montreal Canadiens
Boston Bruins
Chicago Black Hawks
New York Rangers

Frank Mahovlich Scores His 500th NHL Goal Thanks To Henri Richard and Guy Lapointe

Frank Mahovlich’s legendary scoring touch reached a milestone on March 21, 1973, when he notched his 500th NHL goal at the Montreal Forum. The Canadiens hosted the Vancouver Canucks that night, and “The Big M” made sure it was memorable.

Mahovlich peppered Vancouver goalie Dunc Wilson with six shots, and one finally found the back of the net at 1:27 of the third period. That goal, assisted by Henri Richard and Guy Lapointe, stood as the game winner in a 3-2 Montreal victory.

Wilson faced a barrage of 41 shots, while Ken Dryden turned away 23 of 25 for Montreal. The goal came during a five-game hot streak for Mahovlich, who racked up 11 points over that span. He finished the 1972-73 season with 93 points, just shy of his career-best 96 the year before.

Over his NHL career, Mahovlich tallied 533 regular season goals, ranking 36th all-time and making him one of just 48 players to surpass the 500-goal mark. He added 51 playoff goals in 137 games and later scored 89 more in the WHA with the Toronto Toros and Birmingham Bulls.

From 1956-57 to 1973-74, Frank played 1,181 NHL games with the Toronto Maple Leafs, Detroit Red Wings, and Montreal Canadiens. The 1957-58 Calder Trophy winner captured six Stanley Cups, four with Toronto and two with Montreal, before earning induction into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 1981.

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NHL Hockey Trivia: Frank Mahovlich

Much more NHL hockey trivia can be found at our website: World's Best Hockey Trivia

1. Frank Mahovlich won the Calder Trophy as NHL rookie of the year with which team?
   Montreal Canadiens
   Detroit Red Wings
   Toronto Maple Leafs
   Chicago Black Hawks
   


2. How many Stanley Cups did Mahovlich win during his NHL career?
   4
   5
   6
   7
   


3. Which goaltender gave up Frank Mahovlich’s 500th career NHL goal on March 21, 1973?
   Ken Dryden
   Dunc Wilson
   Rogie Vachon
   Tony Esposito
   


4. Before joining the Montreal Canadiens, Mahovlich was traded to them from which NHL team?
   Chicago Black Hawks
   Detroit Red Wings
   Toronto Maple Leafs
   New York Rangers
   


5. In addition to his NHL career, Mahovlich played in the WHA. Which two teams did he play for there?
   Edmonton Oilers and Quebec Nordiques
   Winnipeg Jets and New England Whalers
   Toronto Toros and Birmingham Bulls
   Calgary Cowboys and Houston Aeros
   

Gilbert Perreault Becomes the 12th Player in NHL History to Reach the 500 Goal Plateau

On March 9, 1986, the Buffalo Sabres faithful at the Aud witnessed history. Their franchise cornerstone, Gilbert Perreault, became just the 12th player in NHL history to reach the 500-goal milestone.

Perreault had notched goal number 499 two nights earlier in a loss to the Hartford Whalers. Against the New Jersey Devils, he struck again, scoring his milestone marker at 10:44 of the second period on Alain Chevrier, with Mike Foligno and Bill Hajt picking up the assists.

Although it was Perreault’s only point of the night, the Sabres pulled off a 4-3 victory. Foligno added a goal and an assist, and Doug Smith netted the game-winner late in the third period. Tom Barrasso was solid between the pipes, turning aside 31 of 34 shots for the win.

For Perreault, the milestone came near the twilight of his brilliant career. His 500th was his 18th goal of the 1985-86 season, and he would finish that year with 21, good for fourth on the team despite his age and reduced ice time. The Sabres missed the playoffs, and Perreault would play only 20 more games the following season before retiring with 512 career goals.

A true one-franchise legend, Gilbert Perreault played 1,191 regular-season games and 90 playoff games, all with Buffalo. He remains the only player ever to wear No. 11 for the Sabres, and his 1990 induction into the Hockey Hall of Fame cemented his place among the game’s greatest. As of today, he still ranks 43rd on the NHL’s all-time goals list, just behind Jeremy Roenick, a testament to the skill, grace, and longevity that defined his career.

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NHL Hockey Trivia: Gilbert Perreault

Much more NHL hockey trivia can be found at our website: World's Best Hockey Trivia

1. In what year did Gilbert Perreault make his NHL debut with the Buffalo Sabres?

1968-69
1969-70
1970-71
1971-72

2. Which award did Perreault win during his rookie season in the NHL?

Lady Byng Trophy
Calder Memorial Trophy
Hart Trophy
Bill Masterton Trophy

3. Gilbert Perreault was the centerpiece of what famous Buffalo Sabres forward line?

The French Connection
The Production Line
The Triple Crown Line
The Legion of Doom

4. How many career goals did Perreault finish with before retiring in 1987?

486
500
512
519

5. In what year was Gilbert Perreault inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame?

1988
1989
1990
1991

Oh Brother! The Hull Brothers Dominate the Minnesota North Stars in 1971

The Minnesota North Stars and rookie goalie Gilles Gilbert were in tough on February 6, 1971, when the Chicago Blackhawks came to town. On this night, it wasn’t just one superstar causing havoc, it was two. Brothers Bobby and Dennis Hull teamed up for five of Chicago’s six goals in a convincing 6-2 win.

Minnesota actually held the lead early. Bill Goldsworthy opened the scoring in the first period, giving the Stars a 1-0 edge. But the game quickly turned in the second when, in a furious three-minute span, Bobby Hull netted his 31st of the season and Dennis followed with his 26th to flip the score in Chicago’s favor.

The third period sealed Minnesota’s fate. Stan Mikita scored the eventual game-winner on a power play just 2:29 in, with Dennis Hull earning an assist. From there, the Hull brothers went back to work. Dennis scored again, his 27th of the year, while Bobby completed his hat trick with goals 32 and 33 of the season.

By night’s end, each Hull had five shots on Gilbert, combining for 36% of Chicago’s total attempts. Mikita played the perfect complement, chipping in a goal and two assists to fuel the offensive surge.

The Hulls weren’t done making headlines. Just two weeks later, on February 21, 1971, the brothers overwhelmed the Los Angeles Kings with a combined four goals and seven points in a 7-5 win. Once again, Bobby Hull recorded a hat trick, this time adding two assists, while Dennis contributed a goal and an assist.

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NHL Hockey Trivia: The Hull Brothers

Much more NHL hockey trivia can be found at our website: World's Best Hockey Trivia

1. Bobby Hull was nicknamed “The Golden Jet” because of his speed and...

His bright blonde hair
His powerful slapshot
His flashy gold skates
His Olympic sprinting background

2. Dennis Hull spent the majority of his NHL career with which team?

Detroit Red Wings
St. Louis Blues
Chicago Blackhawks
Kansas City Scouts

3. Bobby Hull became the first NHL player to score 50 goals in a season twice. In which season did he set the record with 54 goals?

1959-60
1961-62
1965-66
1968-69

4. Dennis Hull represented Canada in the 1972 Summit Series against the Soviet Union.

True
False

5. Bobby Hull shocked the hockey world in 1972 when he signed with which team in the WHA?

Houston Aeros
Winnipeg Jets
Quebec Nordiques
New England Whalers

December 16, 1970: Cliff Koroll’s Four-Assist Period Ties NHL Record

On December 16, 1970, second-year forward Cliff Koroll carved his name into NHL history. In an 8-3 Chicago Blackhawks win over the St. Louis Blues at Chicago Stadium, Koroll recorded four assists in a single period, tying an NHL record that had stood since 1920-21.

The Blues entered the second period with a 3-1 lead, paced by Jim Lorentz’s two goals and an assist. But Chicago stormed back with five unanswered goals in the middle frame. Koroll set up two goals by Stan Mikita, one by Pit Martin, and one by Dennis Hull to etch his name into the record books. All five Blackhawks goals in that period came against St. Louis goalie Ernie Wakely, who faced 42 shots on the night.

Mikita had an unforgettable game himself. He scored Chicago’s first goal in the opening frame, then added three more in the second for a four-goal outing. He also picked up an assist on Dennis Hull’s goal, finishing with five points.

Koroll went on to play his entire NHL career with the Blackhawks, appearing in 814 regular season and 85 playoff games between 1969-70 and 1979-80. Known for his consistency, he reached the 20-goal plateau in five straight seasons, peaking with 33 goals in 1972-73.

Though Dale Hawerchuk eventually raised the bar to five assists in a period in 1983-84 (later matched by Kris Letang in 2023), Koroll remains part of an exclusive group of players who made NHL history in just one period of play.

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NHL Hockey Trivia: Cliff Koroll

Much more NHL hockey trivia can be found at our website: World's Best Hockey Trivia

1. Cliff Koroll played his entire NHL career with which team?

Chicago Blackhawks
Detroit Red Wings
St. Louis Blues
Minnesota North Stars

2. How many career regular season games did Koroll play in the NHL?

612
814
929
740

3. What was Cliff Koroll’s highest single-season goal total in the NHL?

20
27
33
38

4. Which Hall of Fame linemate did Koroll often skate with during his Chicago years?

Stan Mikita
Bobby Orr
Guy Lafleur
Jean Ratelle

5. After retiring as a player, what role did Cliff Koroll hold with the Blackhawks?

Assistant Coach
General Manager
Team President
Play-by-Play Broadcaster

Miroslav Frycer’s Four-Goal Night Leads Maple Leafs Past Gretzky’s Oilers in 1986 Shootout

The mid-80s Edmonton Oilers were an offensive juggernaut, capable of lighting up the scoreboard at will. In 1985-86, they scored eight or more goals in a game 15 different times, including one with 13 and two with 12. But on January 8, 1986, inside Maple Leaf Gardens, they were stunned by the Toronto Maple Leafs in one of the wildest games of the decade.

Toronto, a team that had managed just 10 wins in 37 games up to that point, outgunned Wayne Gretzky and company in an 11-9 upset victory. The unlikely hero was Miroslav Frycer, who delivered the game of his life. Frycer scored four goals, his 14th through 17th of the season, including the game-winner at 10:51 of the third period.

The Leafs weren’t relying on Frycer alone. Wendel Clark, Russ Courtnall, Dan Hodgson and Steve Thomas all chipped in with three-point performances to fuel the offensive explosion. Goaltender Tim Bernhardt, despite surrendering nine goals on 31 shots, earned the win, one of only four victories he posted in his 23 appearances that season.

Amazingly, the Oilers still had players who outproduced Frycer on the scoresheet. Wayne Gretzky recorded a hat trick and three assists, while Jari Kurri notched a goal and five helpers, both finishing with six points apiece. Paul Coffey also had a four-point night.

For Frycer, it was a career milestone. The game marked his only four-goal performance in 415 NHL games. The 1985-86 season would be his best overall, with career highs of 32 goals, 43 assists, and 75 points. Over his NHL career (1981-89), Frycer suited up for the Quebec Nordiques, Toronto Maple Leafs, Detroit Red Wings, and Edmonton Oilers, with Toronto acquiring him from Quebec in 1982 in exchange for Wilf Paiement.

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NHL Hockey Trivia: Miroslav Frycer

Much more NHL hockey trivia can be found at our website: World's Best Hockey Trivia

1. Miroslav Frycer scored the only four-goal game of his NHL career against which team in 1986?
   Detroit Red Wings
   Montreal Canadiens
   Edmonton Oilers
   Buffalo Sabres
   
2. Frycer was traded to the Toronto Maple Leafs in 1982 from which NHL team?
   Quebec Nordiques
   Detroit Red Wings
   New York Rangers
   Edmonton Oilers
   
3. What were Frycer’s career-high totals in points during the 1985-86 season?
   55 points
   65 points
   75 points
   85 points
   
4. Frycer played his final NHL season in 1988-89 with which team?
   Toronto Maple Leafs
   Detroit Red Wings
   Quebec Nordiques
   Edmonton Oilers
   
5. How many total NHL games did Miroslav Frycer play in his career?
   315
   415
   515
   615
   

Mike Gartner Nets His First Career Hat Trick Against the Nordiques in 1979

On December 1, 1979, Mike Gartner gave Washington Capitals fans a glimpse of the legendary career that was about to unfold.

It had been a sluggish start for both Gartner and the Capitals during the 1979-80 NHL season. Through 24 games, Gartner had only three goals, while Washington’s record sat at a dismal 4-16-4. But that night at the Capital Centre against the Quebec Nordiques, everything changed.

After two periods, the game was locked at 2-2. Then came a third-period eruption. Washington buried five goals past Quebec netminder Goran Hogosta to secure a 7-2 victory. Gartner was the star, netting three of those goals, his 4th, 5th, and 6th of the season, on just four shots. Wes Jarvis assisted on all three and chipped in a goal of his own for a four-point night.

Though the Caps’ season struggles continued, Gartner found his scoring touch. He finished his rookie year with 36 goals, eventually hitting the 50-goal mark with Washington in 1984-85. Over his Hall of Fame career, he scored 708 goals in 1,432 games, ranking him 8th all-time, sandwiched between Phil Esposito and Mark Messier.

Gartner played for the Capitals, Minnesota North Stars, New York Rangers, Toronto Maple Leafs, and Phoenix Coyotes, where he notched the franchise’s first-ever hat trick after their move from Winnipeg. His induction into the Hockey Hall of Fame came in 2001, cementing his place among the game’s all-time greats.

NHL Hockey Trivia: Mike Gartner

Much more NHL hockey trivia can be found at our website: World's Best Hockey Trivia

1. In what season did Mike Gartner score his first NHL hat trick?

1978-79
1979-80
1980-81
1981-82

2. How many career goals did Mike Gartner score in the NHL?

612
650
708
742

3. Which team did Gartner score the first hat trick in franchise history for, after relocation?

Washington Capitals
New York Rangers
Toronto Maple Leafs
Phoenix Coyotes

4. Mike Gartner was inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in which year?

1999
2000
2001
2003

5. Which of these teams did Gartner NOT play for in his NHL career?

Minnesota North Stars
New York Rangers
St. Louis Blues
Toronto Maple Leafs

Syl Apps Explodes For Six Points As Islanders Suffer Rough Start

When the New York Islanders entered the NHL for the 1972-73 season, few imagined that just eight years later they would become a dynasty with four straight Stanley Cup championships. Their early years, however, were filled with growing pains and one December night in Pittsburgh highlighted just how far they had to go.

On December 13, 1972, the expansion Islanders came into the Civic Arena with a dismal 3-21-3 record, having already allowed nine or more goals three times. Against the Penguins, things quickly spiraled out of control. Pittsburgh fired nine unanswered goals past beleaguered New York goaltender Gerry Desjardins, who faced a staggering 55 shots on the night. The Islanders only avoided being shut out when they scored with six seconds left, barely spoiling Denis Herron’s quiet evening in the other crease.

The star of the night was Syl Apps Jr., who delivered the finest offensive performance of his 1972-73 season. Apps recorded a hat trick, his first of three career NHL hat tricks, while also setting up three more goals for a six-point masterpiece. His linemate Lowell MacDonald added two goals and two assists, while Al McDonough chipped in with a goal and three helpers.

For Apps, this game was one of the highlights of a productive campaign. Along with this six-point night, he notched a five-point game against Toronto and three four-point outings. His offensive flair reached another peak in December 1977, when he tallied his only career four-goal game against the Los Angeles Kings.

About Syl Apps

Syl Apps played 727 regular season and 23 playoff games in the National Hockey League between 1970-71 and 1979-80 with the New York Rangers, Pittsburgh Penguins and Los Angeles Kings. He was a playoff champion with both the Omaha Knights in the CHL and the Buffalo Bisons in the AHL in 1969-70.

NHL Hockey Trivia: Syl Apps Jr.

Much more NHL hockey trivia can be found at our website: World's Best Hockey Trivia

1. Which NHL team did Syl Apps Jr. spend the majority of his career with?

New York Islanders
Pittsburgh Penguins
Los Angeles Kings
Toronto Maple Leafs

2. How many career NHL hat tricks did Syl Apps Jr. record?

1
3
5
7

3. In which season did Apps record his only four-goal game?

1972-73
1974-75
1977-78
1979-80

4. What was Syl Apps Jr.’s highest single-season point total in the NHL?

70
85
99
110

5. Which NHL franchise originally drafted Syl Apps Jr. in 1964?

Montreal Canadiens
Toronto Maple Leafs
New York Rangers
Pittsburgh Penguins

Two Goals in Six Seconds: Turgeon’s Historic Whalers Moment

On March 28, 1987, Sylvain Turgeon snapped out of a scoring slump in dramatic fashion for the Hartford Whalers. Facing Mario Lemieux and the Pittsburgh Penguins at the Hartford Civic Center, Turgeon delivered one of the most memorable performances in franchise history.

After scoring just one goal in his previous eight games, Turgeon opened the scoring late in the first period, beating Pat Riggin unassisted. The second period turned into a wild offensive showcase, with six goals scored in just over five minutes.

Lemieux tied the game at 13:39 with his 53rd goal of the season, but Turgeon responded instantly. Just 20 seconds later, he notched his second of the night. Six seconds after that, he completed the hat trick. The two lightning-quick tallies remain a Whalers franchise record for the fastest two goals by a single player. Even after the team relocated and became the Carolina Hurricanes, the closest anyone has come was Ray Whitney’s two goals in 31 seconds back in 2007.

The Whalers went on to win 5-4, thanks to a clutch goal from captain Ron Francis. Turgeon himself fired 10 of Hartford’s 22 total shots, while goaltender Mike Liut made 19 saves for the victory.

Turgeon went on to play 669 regular season and 36 playoff games in the NHL with the Whalers, New Jersey Devils, Montreal Canadiens, and Ottawa Senators. Twice he hit the 40-goal plateau in Hartford, peaking with a career-best 45 in 1985-86.

NHL Hockey Trivia: Sylvain Turgeon

Much more NHL hockey trivia can be found at our website: World's Best Hockey Trivia

1. Which NHL team drafted Sylvain Turgeon second overall in the 1983 NHL Entry Draft?

Montreal Canadiens
Hartford Whalers
Ottawa Senators
New Jersey Devils

2. Turgeon’s career-best season came in 1985-86 with how many goals scored for Hartford?

35
40
45
50

3. Which of the following teams did Sylvain Turgeon NOT play for during his NHL career?

Hartford Whalers
Montreal Canadiens
New Jersey Devils
Toronto Maple Leafs

4. In March 1987, Turgeon set a Hartford Whalers record by scoring two goals just six seconds apart. Who were the opponents that night?

Boston Bruins
Pittsburgh Penguins
Buffalo Sabres
New York Rangers

5. Across his NHL career, how many regular season games did Sylvain Turgeon play?

450
669
710
820

Real Cloutier Nets 3 In 1st NHL Game For The Quebec Nordiques Franchise

In the final season of the WHA, 1978-79, Real Cloutier led the league with 75 goals and 129 points. It's fitting that Cloutier provided the offense in the first game in the NHL for the Quebec Nordiques.

On October 10, 1979, Quebec hosted the Atlanta Flames in their National Hockey League debut. The home team fell 5-3 but the crowd was treated to a third period comeback attempt, fueled by Cloutier and Marc Tardif.

Over the first two periods, Atlanta jumped to a 4-0 lead on goals by Phil Russell, Kent Nilsson, Ivan Boldirev and Willi Plett. At 9:51 of the third period, Cloutier scored the first NHL goal for both him and the Nordiques on future Nordique goalie Dan Bouchard. Just over a minute later, he scored again to make the score 4-2. Eric Vail made it 5-2 Flames before Real scored his hat trick goal at 19:13. All three Cloutier goals were assisted by Marc Tardif.

He would not again see the scoring success he had in the WHA but Cloutier had a decent year in 1979-80 with 42 goals in just 67 games. He would top 20 goals three more times, twice with Quebec and once with the Buffalo Sabres. The 1979-80 Nordiques finished fifth in the Adams Division with the third worst record in the NHL.

NHL Hockey Trivia: Real Cloutier

Much more NHL hockey trivia can be found at our website: World's Best Hockey Trivia

1. In his final WHA season (1978-79), how many goals did Real Cloutier score to lead the league?

• 65
• 70
• 75
• 80

2. Who assisted on all three of Cloutier’s goals in the Quebec Nordiques’ first NHL game in 1979?

• Michel Goulet
• Marc Tardif
• Jacques Richard
• Peter Stastny

3. Which NHL team did Real Cloutier finish his career with after leaving the Nordiques?

• Buffalo Sabres
• Hartford Whalers
• Toronto Maple Leafs
• Calgary Flames

4. How many 50+ goal seasons did Real Cloutier record during his WHA career?

• 1
• 2
• 3
• 4

5. In his first NHL season (1979-80), how many goals did Cloutier score for Quebec in just 67 games?

• 28
• 34
• 42
• 50

Bill Hicke and Charlie Hodge Star for Oakland Seals in an October 11, 1967 “Game of Firsts”

It was the beginning of a new era in the NHL. On October 11, 1967, the expansion Philadelphia Flyers traveled west to face the Oakland Seals in the first NHL game for both teams.

The Seals gave the home fans plenty to cheer about with a 5-1 victory. Goaltender Charlie Hodge was sharp, stopping 24 of 25 shots, while forward Bill Hicke led the way offensively with two goals and an assist. Kent Douglas and Gerry Ehman also had three-point nights in what turned out to be a confident debut for the Bay Area franchise.

Douglas made history early, scoring the first goal in Oakland Seals history just 3:23 into the game. The goal came against Bernie Parent and was assisted by Charlie Burns and George Swarbrick.

The Flyers also notched a first of their own. Bill Sutherland scored the franchise’s inaugural goal at 10:07 of the second period, converting on a powerplay with assists from Leon Rochefort and John Miszuk. It stood as Philadelphia’s first powerplay marker in NHL history.

Ron Harris scored the Seals’ first game-winning goal less than two minutes after Sutherland’s tally, and Bill Hicke added Oakland’s first powerplay goal early in the third.

There were also early signs of animosity. Just 22 seconds after the opening faceoff, each team took its first penalty. Lou Angotti of the Flyers was called for interference, while Larry Cahan of the Seals went off for slashing.

Philadelphia’s tough California debut continued a few days later, dropping a 4-2 decision to the Los Angeles Kings on October 14. That game featured Brian Kilrea scoring the first goal in Kings history and Gord Labossiere notching the winner. Wayne Rutledge made 14 saves in net for the Kings, who limited the Flyers to just 16 shots.

1967 Oakland Seals vs. Philadelphia Flyers – Trivia Quiz

For much more NHL hockey trivia, visit our Hockey Trivia website!

1. Who scored the first goal in Oakland Seals history?
   Bill Hicke
   Kent Douglas
   Gerry Ehman
   Ron Harris
2. Which goaltender made 24 saves for Oakland in the team's first game?
   Wayne Rutledge
   Charlie Hodge
   Bernie Parent
   Doug Favell
3. Who scored the first goal in Philadelphia Flyers history?
   Leon Rochefort
   Bill Sutherland
   Joe Watson
   Gary Dornhoefer
4. What was the final score of the Seals vs. Flyers inaugural game?
   4-2
   3-1
   5-1
   6-2
5. How many penalties were called just 22 seconds into the game?
   One
   Two
   Three
   None

Steve Durbano’s 10 Points in 5 Games as a Rookie D-Man? Not Orr, But Still Impressive

When someone mentions a defenseman putting up 10 points in five NHL games during the 1972-73 season, your first thought might be Bobby Orr. Fair enough. Orr was in peak form that year. But the blueliner who did it in this stretch was rookie Steve Durbano of the St. Louis Blues.

In February 1973, Durbano scored a goal and assisted on nine others over a five-game tear. What's more surprising? He only took two minor penalties during that span, despite a career built on physicality and time in the box.

February 3, 1973: A Career Night

Durbano’s standout game came in a dominant 6-1 win over the California Golden Seals. He registered four assists, setting up two goals by Floyd Thomson, one from Phil Roberto, and the game-winner by Fran Huck. Durbano led all skaters with six shots on Gilles Meloche, as the Blues peppered the Seals with 51 total shots, compared to just 15 faced by Bob Johnson in the St. Louis net.

Durbano finished the night a +3 and didn’t take a single penalty, a rare stat line for the rugged blueliner.

From First-Round Pick to Journeyman 

Originally a first-round selection by the New York Rangers in 1971, Durbano never played a game for them. After some seasoning in the minors with the Omaha Knights, he broke into the NHL with the Blues in the 1972-73 season.

Over the course of his NHL career (1972-73 to 1978-79), Durbano played 220 regular season games and five playoff contests, suiting up for the Blues, Pittsburgh Penguins, Kansas City Scouts, and Colorado Rockies. True to his reputation, he compiled a staggering 1,127 penalty minutes in those 220 games, averaging over 5 minutes per game.

Steve Durbano Trivia Quiz

For much more NHL hockey trivia, visit our Hockey Trivia Site!

1. How many points did Steve Durbano score in his 5-game streak in 1973?

5
7
10
12

2. Which team did Durbano record 4 assists against on February 3, 1973?

New York Rangers
California Golden Seals
Boston Bruins
Pittsburgh Penguins

3. What unusual stat did Durbano achieve in that February 3 game?

He had a fight and a goal
He had no penalties
He scored a hat trick
He was ejected

4. How many total NHL regular season games did Durbano play?

150
198
220
275

5. Which team originally drafted Steve Durbano?

New York Rangers
St. Louis Blues
Kansas City Scouts
Colorado Rockies

The Mahovlich Brothers Turn the Tide in 1971 Cup Final

On January 13, 1971, the Montreal Canadiens made a bold move, sending Guy Charron, Bill Collins, and Mickey Redmond to the Detroit Red Wings in exchange for Frank Mahovlich. It proved to be a game-changing trade in their chase for the Stanley Cup.

By the time Montreal reached the 1971 Stanley Cup Final, the payoff was clear. Facing the Chicago Blackhawks, the Habs found themselves in a tough spot, down two games to none, then trailing 3-2 in the series heading into Game 6 at the Montreal Forum on May 16. That’s when the Mahovlich brothers took over.

Despite falling behind again in Game 6, the Canadiens battled back. At 5:10 of the third period, Frank “The Big M” Mahovlich tied the game 3-3 with his 14th goal of the playoffs, assisted by the legendary Jean Béliveau. Just minutes later, Pete “The Little M” Mahovlich scored the go-ahead, shorthanded goal, on a slick pass from his big brother.

Frank finished the night with a goal and two assists, while Pete added two goals. All of it came at the expense of Blackhawks goalie Tony Esposito, who gave up four goals on just 16 shots, six of which came from Mahovlich sticks.

The win forced a decisive Game 7, where the Canadiens traveled to Chicago Stadium and completed the comeback with a 3-2 victory to claim the Stanley Cup. Over the course of the 1970-71 playoffs, the Mahovlich brothers were an offensive force, combining for 43 points in 20 games, Frank with 27, Pete with 16. Despite their heroic efforts, neither won the Conn Smythe Trophy. That honor went to a rookie sensation named Ken Dryden.

The Mahovlich Brothers

From Timmins, Ontario, Frank Mahovlich is six years older than brother Pete. Frank got his NHL start in 1956-57, playing three games for the Toronto Maple Leafs while still a junior with Toronto St. Michael's. Peter was a prospect of the Detroit Red Wings and played his first NHL games in similar fashion, appearing in three games with the Wings in 1965-66 while still a junior with the Hamilton Red Wings.

The two were teammates with Detroit after Frank was traded from Toronto on March 3, 1968 with Carl Brewer, Pete Stemkowski and Garry Unger for Doug Barrie, Paul Henderson, Floyd Smith and Norm Ullman. Peter came to Montreal first, arriving on June 6, 1969 in a trade with Bart Crashley for Garry Monahan and Doug Piper. Frank was traded to the Habs on January 13, 1971 for Guy Charron, Bill Collins and Mickey Redmond.

Between 1956-57 and 1973-74, Frank Mahovlich played 1,181 regular season and 137 playoff games in the National Hockey League with the Maple Leafs, Red Wings and Canadiens. He also played 237 regular season and nine playoff games in the WHA between 1974-75 and 1977-78 with the Toronto Toros and Birmingham Bulls.

Pete Mahovlich played 884 regular season and 88 playoff games in the NHL between 1965-66 and 1980-81 with the Red Wings, Canadiens and Pittsburgh Penguins. He was a four time Stanley Cup champion with the Habs and topped the 100 point plateau twice during his career.

Bill Barilko’s Forgotten Goal: The Last Tie Game in Stanley Cup Playoff History

Most hockey fans remember Bill Barilko for his legendary overtime goal that won the Toronto Maple Leafs the 1951 Stanley Cup. Immortalized in The Tragically Hip’s “50 Mission Cap,” that goal was not only Barilko’s last but also one of the most iconic in NHL history. It sealed game five against the Montreal Canadiens, capping off a series in which every game went to overtime.

But Barilko’s first goal in the 1950-51 playoffs carries historical weight as well, though it's largely forgotten today. In game two of the semi-final series against the Boston Bruins, Barilko scored Toronto’s only goal in a 1-1 tie at Maple Leaf Gardens. It wasn’t just a clutch goal, it became part of a unique NHL milestone. This match would go down as the last time an NHL Stanley Cup playoff game ended in a tie.

Why? Because of the Ontario Sunday Curfew Law, which forbade starting a new period after midnight. After one overtime period, officials were forced to halt the game. The stats counted, Barilko racked up 21 penalty minutes, but the result stood as a tie.

Toronto, down 1-0 in the series before that game, used it as a turning point. The Leafs bounced back with four straight wins to eliminate Boston and advance to the Finals.

Just months later, tragedy struck. In August 1951, Barilko vanished on a fishing trip in Northern Ontario. The floatplane carrying him and pilot Henry Hudson crashed, and their remains weren’t discovered until 1962, just after the Leafs won their next Stanley Cup.

Barilko’s final, famous goal is etched in hockey history. But his earlier tally in that same playoff run marks the end of an era, the last Stanley Cup playoff tie, forever shaped by curfew laws and forgotten circumstances.

About Bill Barilko

Because of his untimely death, Bill Barilko played a modest 252 regular season and 47 playoff games in the National Hockey League between 1946-47 and 1950-51 all with the Toronto Maple Leafs. In four of those five years, Bill helped the Leafs to Stanley Cup championships. In the only season during his time that Toronto didn't win, they took the Detroit Red Wings to the full seven games in the semi-final before being eliminated.

In 1947-48, Barilko led the NHL with 147 penalty minutes, an 18 PIM edge over runner-up Ken Reardon. In 1948-49, two of his five goals were scored shorthanded. In a game against the Chicago Blackhawks on January 8, 1949 at Maple Leafs Gardens, Bill's shortie at 12:17 of the third tied the score at 3-3. The Leafs had been down 3-1 midway through the game before coming back. Interestingly, Toronto's first goal of the game was scored by Ted Kennedy, also shorthanded.

Sabres Legends Shine Bright in 1978 NHL All-Star Game at the Aud

On January 24, 1978, the Buffalo Memorial Auditorium played host to the 31st NHL All-Star Game, marking the only time the Buffalo Sabres have hosted the league’s prestigious mid-season event. Representing the Sabres and the Wales Conference were local fan favorites Gilbert Perreault and Rick Martin, both iconic members of the legendary “French Connection” line.

With just under two minutes left in regulation, the Wales Conference found themselves trailing the Campbell Conference 2-1. But at 18:21, Rick Martin tied the game with a clutch goal, assisted by Marcel Dionne and Terry O'Reilly. This goal sent the game into uncharted territory: the first-ever sudden-death overtime in NHL All-Star Game history.

Buffalo fans erupted once more when, 3:55 into overtime, Gilbert Perreault netted the game-winner with assists from Steve Shutt and Borje Salming. The dramatic comeback gave the Wales Conference a 3-2 victory. Despite the thrilling finish, the game’s MVP honors went to Campbell Conference goaltender Billy Smith, who shut out the Wales team in the first half of the game. All three Wales goals came against second-half goalie Wayne Stephenson.

Perreault and Martin's standout performances on All-Star night were a highlight of a stellar 1977–78 season for the Buffalo Sabres. That year, the team finished second in the Adams Division with 105 points. They went on to defeat the New York Rangers in the preliminary playoff round before falling to the Philadelphia Flyers in the quarter-finals.

The 1978 NHL All-Star Game remains a cherished moment in Buffalo sports history, especially for the Sabres faithful who watched their hometown heroes shine on one of hockey’s biggest stages.

About Gilbert Perreault

Between 1970-71 and 1986-87, Gilbert Perreault played 1,191 regular season and 90 playoff games in the National Hockey League, all with the Buffalo Sabres. He was the first overall pick at the 1970 NHL Amateur Draft out of the Montreal Junior Canadiens and was the first ever draft pick of the Sabres.

Gil led the Sabres to the post season in nine consecutive years, reaching the Stanley Cup finals in 1974-75 before bowing out to the Philadelphia Flyers. He reached the 100 point plateau twice, topping out with a career best 113 in 1975-76.

The 1970-71 Calder Trophy winner was inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 1990. That same year, his jersey number 11 became the first to be retired by the Sabres. Perrreault was also the Lady Byng Trophy winner in 1972-73 and was named a Second Team All-Star twice.

About Rick Martin

Between 1971-72 and 1981-82, Rick Martin played 685 regular season and 63 playoff games in the National Hockey League with the Buffalo Sabres and Los Angeles Kings. His time in L.A. consisted of just four regular season and a single post season game.

Like Perreault, he played his junior hockey with the Montreal Junior Canadiens and was a fifth overall pick at the 1971 NHL Amateur Draft. He was the first in Buffalo Sabres franchise history to score 50 goals in a season, totaling 52 in both 1973-74 and 1974-75.

Grant Mulvey's Historic 5-Goal Game: A Chicago Blackhawks Record That Still Stands

When fans think of iconic goal-scorers in Chicago Blackhawks history, names like Bobby Hull, Stan Mikita, Jeremy Roenick, and Patrick Kane quickly come to mind. But the franchise’s most prolific single-game performance came from an often-overlooked forward. Grant Mulvey.

On February 3, 1982, Mulvey made NHL history by scoring five goals in a single game against the St. Louis Blues at the old Chicago Stadium. It remains the only 5-goal game in Blackhawks history, setting a franchise record that still stands more than four decades later.

Mulvey’s offensive explosion didn’t stop with just goals, he added two assists, bringing his total to seven points, a mark that ties the Blackhawks' single-game record held by Max Bentley since 1943. Even more impressively, Mulvey netted four of his goals in the first period, tying an NHL record for most goals in a single period, a feat matched by only 17 other players in league history.

The final score of the game was 9-5 in favor of Chicago, with Mulvey directly contributing to nearly 80% of the team’s goals. Despite a game riddled with penalties, over 100 minutes were handed out, only one of his five goals came on the power play. He also recorded a natural hat trick, scoring three consecutive goals to close out the first period.

Mulvey's historic night was part of a standout performance by the entire team. TerryRuskowski tallied five assists, AlSecord added two goals and two assists, and DaveHutchison completed a Gordie Howe Hat Trick with a goal, assist, and a third-period fight with Jim Nill.

The 1981-82 NHL season would be Mulvey’s last full campaign. He scored 30 goals over 73 games, one of five Blackhawks to reach the 30-goal milestone that year. Mulvey played only 15 more NHL games, three more with Chicago the following season, and 12 with the New Jersey Devils in 1983-84 before retiring from the league.

While Mulvey may not be a household name, his unforgettable night in 1982 secured his place in Chicago Blackhawks history as the lone player to ever score five goals in a game, a record still unmatched by even the greatest names to wear the Blackhawks sweater.

About Grant Mulvey

Grant Mulvey was a first round pick by the Chicago Blackhawks at the 1974 NHL Amateur Draft after just a single year of major junior with the Calgary Centennials. He jumped straight to the Hawks for the 1974-75 NHL season and didn't see time in the minors until the tail end of his playing career.

Mulvey played 586 regular season and 42 playoff games in the National Hockey League between 1974-75 and 1983-84. All but 12 of those games were played with the Chicago Blackhawks, finishing up his NHL career with a short stint with the New Jersey Devils in 1983-84.

By far his career season was 1979-80 when Grant scored 39 goals for Chicago and totaled 65 points. He capped off his pro career with a Calder Cup win in the AHL with the Maine Mariners in 1983-84. He would later coach the Chicago Wolves in the IHL for a short time in the 1990's.