Rick Martin Reaches 50 Goals In Style With Historic Hat Trick For Buffalo Sabres

The Buffalo Sabres closed out the 1973-74 NHL season with a memorable night at the Buffalo Memorial Auditorium, and Rick Martin made sure the home fans had something special to celebrate. Already one of the league's most dangerous scorers, Martin entered the final game of the season sitting on 49 goals and needing just one more to become the first player in franchise history to reach the coveted 50-goal mark.

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Highlights

• Rick Martin entered the final game of 1973-74 with 49 goals.

• Became the first 50-goal scorer in Buffalo Sabres history.

• Scored goal number 50 against Wayne Stephenson of the St. Louis Blues.

• Recorded a hat trick in Buffalo's season finale.

• Finished the season with 52 goals.

• Scored the game-winning goal in a 5-2 Sabres victory.

• Don Luce assisted on both Martin's 50th and 51st goals.

• Matched his 52-goal total again in 1974-75 despite missing 12 games.   

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Facing the St. Louis Blues on April 7, 1974, Martin wasted little time making history. At 8:39 of the opening period, he beat Blues goaltender Wayne Stephenson for his 50th goal of the season. Paul Terbenche and Don Luce picked up the assists on the landmark tally, and the Buffalo crowd erupted as Martin etched his name into the Sabres record book.

The game remained firmly under Buffalo's control, and Martin added to his historic evening early in the third period. Just 2:47 into the final frame, he scored again, collecting his 51st goal of the year. Assisted by Luce and Mike Robitaille, the goal gave the Sabres a 3-0 lead and ultimately stood as the game-winning goal in Buffalo's 5-2 victory.

With the outcome already decided, Martin still had one more highlight left. With only 47 seconds remaining in regulation, he completed the hat trick by scoring his 52nd goal of the season. Norm Gratton and Gilbert Perreault earned the assists as Martin put an exclamation point on one of the greatest individual scoring performances in early Sabres history.

The hat trick not only made Martin the first 50-goal scorer in franchise history, but it also established 52 goals as the highest single-season total by a Sabres player at the time. Remarkably, he matched that total the following season, scoring another 52 goals in 1974-75 despite missing 12 games. For Buffalo fans, Martin's unforgettable finale to the 1973-74 season remains one of the defining moments of the franchise's early years.

"Then Perreault Said to Rico…": The Best Buffalo Sabres Stories Ever Told

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NHL 3 Star Time Warp: February 8, 1975

From our "NHL 3 Star Time Warp" series on our Facebook Page: A look back at the 3 stars from NHL games played on February 8, 1975.

Third Star: Garry Unger of the St. Louis Blues

Facing his former club at Maple Leaf Gardens, Garry Unger played a major role in helping the St. Louis Blues earn a 3-3 draw against the Toronto Maple Leafs. Unger opened the scoring with the lone goal of the first period, beating Toronto goaltender Doug Favell on an unassisted effort.

The veteran center struck again early in the third period, giving St. Louis a 3-1 advantage with his second goal of the night and 25th of the 1974-75 season. However, the Maple Leafs refused to go away quietly, rallying behind goals from Inge Hammarstrom and Darryl Sittler to salvage the tie.

Unger was a constant threat throughout the evening, leading all players with seven shots on goal.

Second Star: Pete LoPresti of the Minnesota North Stars

The Minnesota North Stars pulled off one of the more surprising results of the season, blanking the powerful Philadelphia Flyers 5-0 on home ice. Minnesota entered the contest with just 13 victories through its first 52 games, while the Flyers had been one of the NHL's dominant clubs, suffering only 12 losses over the same span.

Goaltender Pete LoPresti was outstanding, stopping all 26 Philadelphia shots to record the first shutout of his NHL career. His teammates provided plenty of support early, exploding for four goals in just over five minutes before the first period had even reached its halfway point.

Once the game got out of hand, it took on the rough-and-tumble character that had become synonymous with the Broad Street Bullies. Dave Schultz led the penalty parade, piling up 31 penalty minutes in a physical and emotional contest.

First Star: Phil Esposito of the Boston Bruins

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Although the hometown fans at Detroit Olympia watched their Red Wings fall 8-5 to the Boston Bruins, they were treated to a spectacular offensive performance from Phil Esposito. The Bruins superstar erupted for five points, scoring four goals and adding an assist on a goal by Ken Hodge.

Esposito's second goal of the night was particularly significant, as it marked his 50th goal of the season. The milestone represented the fifth and final consecutive season in which he reached the 50-goal mark, further cementing his place among the league's elite scorers.

His third goal of the game proved to be the winner, giving Boston a 6-2 lead and standing up as the decisive tally. The goal was even more impressive because it came while shorthanded, with Don Marcotte earning the assist. By night's end, Esposito had delivered one of the finest individual performances of the season.

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NHL 3 Star Time Warp: February 17, 1973

From our "NHL 3 Star Time Warp" series on our Facebook Page: A look back at the 3 stars from NHL games played on February 17, 1973.

Third Star: Danny Grant of the Minnesota North Stars

Facing the high-powered Boston Bruins, Danny Grant delivered one of his best performances of the season, leading the Minnesota North Stars to a convincing 5-2 victory. Grant recorded a hat trick and added an assist for a four-point night, proving to be the difference-maker against one of the NHL’s elite clubs.

Grant found the back of the net three times, scoring his 21st, 22nd, and 23rd goals of the 1972-73 campaign. He also set up a goal by Jude Drouin, contributing directly to four of Minnesota’s five goals.

The only North Stars goal that did not involve Grant came off the stick of J.P. Parise. That marker ultimately stood as the game-winning goal, while Grant’s offensive outburst secured him Third Star honors.

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Second Star: Ron Ellis of the Toronto Maple Leafs

Although he was the only member of the night’s three stars not to record a hat trick, Ron Ellis still put together an outstanding performance for the Toronto Maple Leafs in a 6-2 victory over the New York Islanders.

Ellis scored twice and added an assist on a goal by Dave Keon, finishing with three points. His first goal of the game, his 19th of the season, eventually held up as the game winner.

He capped off his evening with a shorthanded tally late in the second period, helping Toronto pull away and earning Second Star recognition.

First Star: Bobby Clarke of the Philadelphia Flyers

In one of the most entertaining games of the night, Bobby Clarke powered the Philadelphia Flyers to a thrilling 7-6 victory over the Montreal Canadiens at the Montreal Forum.

Clarke recorded a hat trick and added an assist on a goal by Simon Nolet, giving him a four-point performance. His leadership and offensive production were crucial in a back-and-forth contest that remained undecided until the closing minutes.

The Flyers captain completed his hat trick at 16:31 of the third period, scoring his 29th goal of the season. That goal proved to be the game winner, sealing the dramatic win and earning Clarke First Star honors.

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Mark Messier and Dave Lumley Set an NHL Record in 1981-82 (Wayne Gretzky Made History Too)

On March 28, 1982, hockey fans witnessed one of the most famous goals in NHL history when Wayne Gretzky scored his record-breaking 92nd goal of the season against the Los Angeles Kings. More than four decades later, it remains one of the sport’s most untouchable records.

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Highlights

• Wayne Gretzky scored his historic 92nd goal of the 1981-82 season

• Mark Messier scored just 14 seconds into the game

• Dave Lumley added another goal only 10 seconds later

• Edmonton set an NHL record with two goals in the first 24 seconds

• Glenn Anderson scored twice in the opening period

• Kings goalie Doug Keans allowed four goals on seven shots

• The Oilers defeated Los Angeles 6-2 at the Forum

• Dave Lumley finished with two points and 14 penalty minutes

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But before Gretzky made history at the Forum in Los Angeles, the Edmonton Oilers had already set another NHL record that still stands today.

Just 14 seconds into the opening period, Mark Messier beat Kings goaltender Doug Keans for his 47th goal of the season, with Lee Fogolin picking up the assist. Before the crowd had time to settle back into their seats, Dave Lumley struck just ten seconds later, scoring his 31st of the year with help from Kevin Lowe.

The two Edmonton goals came within the first 24 seconds of the game, establishing a new NHL record for the fastest two goals by one team to begin a game. The previous record of 29 seconds had been set by the Pittsburgh Penguins only one season earlier.

Things only got worse for Los Angeles from there. Glenn Anderson scored twice in the opening period, including one at the 10:51 mark that made it 4-0 Edmonton. After surrendering four goals on just seven shots, Keans was replaced by Mike Blake. Blake settled things down by stopping 28 of the 30 shots he faced, but the Oilers offense had already taken control.

Messier later added his second goal of the game, and then came the moment hockey history remembers best. At 1:50 of the third period, Gretzky fired home goal number 92, surpassing the previous single-season record in unforgettable fashion. The Oilers cruised to a 6-2 victory.

Lumley’s stat line from the game was one of the more unusual of the season. Despite recording only one shot on goal, he scored once and added an assist on Messier’s second tally for a two-point night. He also piled up 14 penalty minutes in the third period and finished tied with Matti Hagman for the team lead at plus-three.

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81 Shots, 4 Goals: Ken Dryden vs. Dan Bouchard Was a Classic in Atlanta

The 1976-77 Montreal Canadiens are remembered as one of the greatest teams in NHL history. Loaded with talent and seemingly unbeatable on most nights, the Canadiens rolled into Atlanta on November 10, 1976 for a matchup against the Atlanta Flames at The Omni. What followed was not an offensive showcase, but a brilliant display of goaltending from two netminders who refused to give an inch.

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Highlights

• Canadiens and Flames played to a 2-2 tie on November 10, 1976

• Ken Dryden made 41 saves on 43 shots

• Dan Bouchard stopped 36 of 38 Montreal shots

• All four goals were scored within 7:34 of the second period

• Guy Lafleur opened the scoring with his 15th goal of the season

• Combined, the teams fired 81 shots on goal

• The game featured one of the best goalie duels of the 1970s

• Dryden finished 1976-77 with a league-leading .920 save percentage   

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For most of the evening, both Ken Dryden and Dan Bouchard were unbeatable. Outside of a wild stretch in the second period lasting just over seven and a half minutes, neither goalie allowed a puck to get by. The game ended in a 2-2 tie, but the score barely captured how impressive both performances really were.

Bouchard faced a relentless Canadiens attack and turned aside 36 of 38 shots. Dryden was tested even more often, stopping 41 of 43 Atlanta shots. Combined, the two goalies made 77 saves on 81 shots in an era where offense around the NHL was exploding.

The scoring finally began at 4:38 of the second period when Guy Lafleur scored his 15th goal of the season for Montreal with assists from Steve Shutt and Pete Mahovlich. Atlanta answered almost immediately. Just 25 seconds later, Bobby Simpson tied the game with help from Ken Houston and Bill Clement.

The Flames grabbed the lead later in the period when Clement scored his sixth of the season at 8:56, assisted by Larry Carriere. Montreal answered at 12:12 when Serge Savard beat Bouchard with assists from Réjean Houle and Mario Tremblay. That would be the end of the scoring despite both teams continuing to generate chances for the remainder of the night.

Dryden’s performance was another example of the incredible season he was putting together. He finished the 1976-77 campaign leading the NHL with a .920 save percentage while recording ten shutouts. Amazingly, only one of those shutouts came in a game where he faced 30 or more shots. Bouchard’s overall season numbers were more modest, but on this night against the mighty Canadiens, he looked every bit the equal of Dryden.

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Bobby Smith Explodes For 7 Points As North Stars Destroy Jets 15-2 In 1981

On November 11, 1981, the Winnipeg Jets walked into the Met Center for a road game against the Minnesota North Stars and quickly found themselves trapped in one of the most lopsided games in NHL history.

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Highlights:

• Bobby Smith recorded 4 goals and 3 assists for a 7-point night

• Minnesota defeated Winnipeg by a staggering 15-2 score

• The North Stars scored 8 goals in the second period alone

• Three of Bobby Smith’s goals came on the power play

• Minnesota’s 15 goals remain tied for the second most in NHL history

• Gilles Meloche stopped 40 of 42 shots despite the blowout

• The North Stars also scored two shorthanded goals in the game

• Doug Soetaert faced 51 shots and allowed 15 goals for Winnipeg

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For much of the opening half of the game, things were still relatively close. Winnipeg trailed only 2-1 early in the second period before the North Stars unleashed an offensive explosion that completely buried the Jets. Beginning at the 4:05 mark of the second, Minnesota scored eight goals in the period, turning the game into an unforgettable nightmare for Winnipeg goaltender Doug Soetaert.

The chaos started when Kent-Erik Andersson scored with assists from Bobby Smith and Dino Ciccarelli. That goal sparked a stretch where four goals were scored in just 1:11, three by Minnesota and one by Winnipeg. It narrowly missed the NHL record at the time for the fastest four combined goals in a game.

Bobby Smith became the star of the night. The North Stars captain scored four goals, including three on the power play, while also adding three assists for a massive seven-point performance. Smith factored into goals by Andersson, Dino Ciccarelli and Curt Giles as Minnesota piled up 51 shots on net.

An incredible 15 of those 51 shots beat Soetaert, tying the second-highest single-game goal total ever recorded by one NHL team. Only the Montreal Canadiens scored more, netting 16 goals against the Quebec Bulldogs back in 1920.

Lost in the offensive madness was the workload handled by Minnesota goalie Gilles Meloche. Despite his team winning by 13 goals, Meloche still faced 42 shots and stopped 40 of them. Winnipeg’s only goals came from Morris Lukowich and Bengt Lundholm.

The North Stars even managed a pair of shorthanded goals during the rout, including one by Neal Broten and another from Anders Hakansson that was assisted by Meloche himself. By the final buzzer, the scoreboard read an almost unbelievable 15-2 in favor of Minnesota, one of the greatest offensive outbursts the NHL has ever seen.

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Chicago’s John Marks Set An NHL Record In Just 33 Seconds

On November 13, 1975, the Chicago Blackhawks stormed into the Spectrum in Philadelphia and made NHL history almost immediately. Forward John Marks needed only 33 seconds from the opening faceoff to score twice against the defending Stanley Cup champion Flyers, setting a new NHL record for the fastest two goals by one player from the start of a game.

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Highlights:

• John Marks scored twice in the first 33 seconds of the game

• The record-setting game took place on November 13, 1975

• Marks broke Bill Hicke’s previous NHL record

• Chicago built an early 5-1 lead over Philadelphia

• Gary Dornhoefer recorded four points for the Flyers

• Philadelphia scored three goals in a 50-second span

• The game ended in a dramatic 5-5 tie

• Mike Knuble later broke the NHL record in 2003

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Marks opened the scoring just 14 seconds into the contest, beating Philadelphia goaltender Wayne Stephenson unassisted for his fourth goal of the 1975-76 season. Before fans had even settled into their seats, he struck again only 19 seconds later. Assisted by Pit Martin and Cliff Koroll, Marks buried his second of the night at the 0:33 mark, breaking the previous NHL record by a full minute.

The old mark had belonged to Bill Hicke of the Oakland Seals, who scored twice within the opening 1:33 of a game back in 1969. Marks’ incredible start stunned the Flyers and helped Chicago build what looked like an insurmountable lead. By the midway point of the game, the Blackhawks were comfortably ahead 5-1.

Philadelphia, however, refused to go quietly. Led by Gary Dornhoefer’s four-point night consisting of one goal and three assists, the Flyers clawed their way back into the contest. Ross Lonsberry and Dornhoefer scored within the final 23 seconds of the second period, and Bill Barber added another just 27 seconds into the third. The Flyers’ rapid-fire comeback featured three goals in only 50 seconds.

Despite Marks’ historic opening burst, the game ultimately ended in a wild 5-5 tie. Ivan Boldirev and Dennis Hull each chipped in with two-point performances for Chicago, but the Flyers’ relentless push erased the early deficit and salvaged a point on home ice.

Marks’ NHL record eventually fell years later when Mike Knuble of the Boston Bruins scored twice within the first 27 seconds of a 2003 game against the Florida Panthers. Interestingly, only a month after Marks set the record, Buffalo Sabres star Rick Martin nearly matched it by scoring two goals in the opening 38 seconds against the Minnesota North Stars.

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Dick Cherry’s Rare Offensive Explosion: Shorthanded Game-Winner Lifts Flyers in 1969

When fans think of Dick Cherry, offensive heroics aren’t usually the first thing that comes to mind. A dependable, stay-at-home defenseman, Cherry made his mark with steady play, not scoring bursts. But on January 26, 1969, at the The Spectrum, he delivered one of the most memorable performances of his career.

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Highlights

• Dick Cherry scored a rare two-goal game for the Flyers

• Game took place January 26, 1969, at the Spectrum

• Penguins jumped out to an early 3-0 lead

• Flyers rallied with goals by Kennedy, Gendron, and Lacroix

• Cherry netted the game-winning goal while shorthanded

• Added an empty-net goal with 14 seconds remaining

• Dick Sarrazin recorded an impressive four assists

• One of Cherry’s most memorable NHL performances

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The visiting Pittsburgh Penguins came out flying, building a 3-0 lead in the first half of the game thanks to goals from Wally Boyer, Billy Dea, and Ken Schinkel. It looked like a comfortable night for Pittsburgh early on.

But the Philadelphia Flyers weren’t done.

Midway through the second period, Forbes Kennedy got Philadelphia on the board. Later in the frame, Jean-Guy Gendron cut the deficit to one, setting the stage for a dramatic third period.

Just over eight minutes into the final frame, Andre Lacroix tied the game, and momentum had clearly shifted. With the score even, overtime seemed inevitable.

Then came the turning point.

With teammate Myron Stankiewicz in the penalty box, Cherry seized his moment. Scoring just his second goal of the season, he beat Penguins goaltender Les Binkley with a shorthanded effort, assisted by Dick Sarrazin. It stood up as the game-winner.

Cherry wasn’t finished. With just 14 seconds remaining, he added an empty-net goal to seal a 5-3 Flyers victory, an extraordinary two-goal night for a player who scored just 12 times in his entire NHL regular-season career.

For Cherry, whose NHL journey included a brief debut with the Boston Bruins in 1956-57 before returning over a decade later with Philadelphia, this game stands as a shining offensive highlight.

And while Cherry earned the spotlight, it’s worth noting the incredible performance of Sarrazin, who recorded four assists in the game. Despite limited NHL time, he enjoyed a strong 1968-69 season, posting 16 goals and 46 points in just 54 games.

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Gordie Howe Dominates: Involved in All 5 Red Wings Goals in 1953 Win

Few players in NHL history have ever controlled a game quite like Gordie Howe did during the 1952-53 season. While his career would stretch into four decades, it was that remarkable year when “Mr. Hockey” reached his offensive peak, finishing with 49 goals, just one shy of joining Maurice Richard and Bernie Geoffrion as the only 50-goal scorers in NHL history at the time. Howe still led the league and captured both the Art Ross Trophy and the Hart Trophy.

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Highlights

• Gordie Howe recorded 5 points (2 goals, 3 assists)

• Involved in all 5 Detroit Red Wings goals

• Multiple points on a single power play

• Game played February 1, 1953

• Red Wings defeated Maple Leafs 5–1

• Part of Howe’s 49-goal MVP season   

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One unforgettable performance came on February 1, 1953, at Detroit Olympia, when the Detroit Red Wings faced the Toronto Maple Leafs. Detroit cruised to a 5-1 victory, but the real story was Howe’s complete dominance. He played a role in every single Red Wings goal.

Howe opened the scoring at 5:24 of the first period, netting his 36th goal of the season against goaltender Harry Lumley, with assists from Red Kelly and Jim Hay. Just 45 seconds later, Howe turned playmaker, setting up Alex Delvecchio for what would stand as the game-winning goal.

Remarkably, both goals came on the same power play, with Tim Horton serving a penalty. In that era, penalties were served in full regardless of goals scored, allowing Howe and the Red Wings to fully capitalize. Before the advantage expired, Howe assisted again, this time on a goal by Marcel Pronovost, giving Detroit a commanding 3-0 lead.

The second period brought more of the same brilliance. Howe scored another power-play goal, assisted by Kelly and Ted Lindsay, extending the lead to 4-1. Less than a minute later, he added his third assist of the night, helping Delvecchio notch his second goal and seal the 5-1 final.

When the dust settled, Howe had recorded five points, two goals and three assists, while factoring into every Detroit tally. It was a performance that perfectly captured why he remains one of hockey’s greatest icons: skill, vision, and complete control of the game in every situation.

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Johnny Bucyk and Bob Perreault Spark Bruins Upset Over Canadiens in 1962-63 Opener

The gap between the Montreal Canadiens and Boston Bruins couldn’t have been wider heading into the 1962-63 NHL season. Montreal had just finished atop the standings with 42 wins and 98 points in 1961-62, while Boston languished in last place with only 15 victories. On paper, the season opener looked like a mismatch. On the ice, it told a very different story.

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Highlights

• Bruins stunned Canadiens 5-0 in 1962-63 season opener

• Johnny Bucyk scored twice and added an assist

• Bucyk’s opening goal came just 4:23 into the first period

• Doug Mohns recorded 2 goals and 1 assist

• Bob Perreault made 28 saves for a shutout in his 10th NHL game

• Game played at Boston Garden on October 11, 1962

• Bruins won just 1 of their first 17 games after opener

• Boston finished season with only 14 wins despite hot start

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On October 11, 1962, at Boston Garden, the Bruins stunned the hockey world with a dominant 5-0 victory. Johnny Bucyk wasted no time setting the tone, scoring the game-winning goal just 4:23 into the first period against legendary goaltender Jacques Plante. Bucyk added another goal later in the game and chipped in an assist, finishing with a three-point performance that energized the home crowd.

Boston’s offensive push didn’t stop there. Doug Mohns delivered a standout performance of his own, recording two goals and an assist. Contributions from players like Wayne Connelly and Murray Oliver helped round out a relentless Bruins attack that overwhelmed Montreal from start to finish.

In goal, Bob Perreault authored one of the most surprising performances of the night. Appearing in just his tenth NHL game, and his first since the 1958-59 season, Perreault turned aside all 28 shots he faced to secure the shutout. Though his NHL career was brief, he built a remarkable legacy in the minors, capturing four Calder Cup championships in the AHL and another title with the San Francisco Seals in the WHL.

As memorable as the victory was, it proved to be a rare bright spot for Boston that season. The Bruins would go on to win just one of their first 17 games and finished the 1962-63 campaign with only 14 victories, one fewer than the previous year. Against Montreal, Boston managed just two wins in 14 meetings, including a narrow 2-1 triumph on Valentine’s Day, underscoring how fleeting that opening-night magic truly was.

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Stan Mikita’s OT Heroics Spark Chicago’s Final Playoff Win Before Historic Losing Streak

On April 17, 1975, at Chicago Stadium, Stan Mikita delivered a clutch overtime performance that would unknowingly mark the end of an era for the Chicago Blackhawks. Facing the Buffalo Sabres in Game 3 of their quarter-final series, the Blackhawks were already down 2-0 and fighting to stay alive in the 1974-75 Stanley Cup Playoffs.

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Highlights

• Stan Mikita scored the overtime winner in Game 3 on April 17, 1975

• Chicago defeated Buffalo 5-4 for their only win of the series

• Mikita had a 3-point game (1 goal, 2 assists)

• The Blackhawks were already down 2-0 in the series at the time

• Chicago lost the next two games and was eliminated

• That victory became their last playoff win for nearly 5 years

• The team went on to lose 16 straight playoff games (NHL record)

• The streak finally ended on April 8, 1980, with an OT goal by Doug Lecuyer   

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Chicago controlled much of the game but couldn’t shake Buffalo. Holding a 4-3 lead after two periods, the Blackhawks saw their advantage disappear when Jim Schoenfeld tied the game midway through the third. With momentum hanging in the balance, the game headed into sudden-death overtime.

Just 2:31 into the extra frame, Mikita stepped up in vintage fashion. Scoring his third goal of the playoffs, he beat Gerry Desjardins with a perfectly timed finish, assisted by Cliff Koroll and Dick Redmond. Mikita’s overtime winner capped off a dominant three-point performance, as he also assisted on earlier goals by Redmond and Koroll.

What no one could have predicted at the time was the historical weight of that goal. Chicago would go on to lose the next two games and the series, and that victory would stand as their last playoff win for nearly five years. The Blackhawks then endured a staggering 16-game postseason losing streak, a record that still stands in NHL history.

Despite the drought, Chicago continued to qualify for the playoffs each year, only to fall short repeatedly. They were swept by the Montreal Canadiens in 1976, eliminated quickly by the New York Islanders in 1977, pushed but lost to Boston in 1978, and swept again by the Islanders in 1979.

The streak finally ended on April 8, 1980, when Doug Lecuyer scored an overtime winner against Mike Liut. Though Mikita had retired by then, Tony Esposito was a constant presence in both the 1975 victory and the 1980 breakthrough, a rare bridge between two vastly different moments in Blackhawks playoff history.

Forever a Blackhawk

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He Needed Just 19 Seconds: Ted Irvine’s Record-Breaking OT Winner

The 1968-69 opening-round playoff series between the Los Angeles Kings and the Oakland Seals was as tight as they come, stretching the full seven games. Despite advancing, the Kings were actually outscored 25-23 over the series. Oddly enough, only one game required overtime and it happened right at the very beginning.

Quick Facts

• 📅 Date: April 2, 1969
• 🏒 Game: Kings vs. Seals (Game 1, Quarterfinal)
• ⚡ Overtime Winner: Ted Irvine (0:19)
• 🏆 Record: Fastest OT goal in NHL history (at the time)
• 🔁 Previous Record: Syd Howe (0:25, 1940)
• 🔥 Current Record: Brian Skrudland (0:09, 1986)

Game 1, played on April 2, 1969 at the Oakland-Alameda County Coliseum Arena, set the tone early. The Seals carried a 2-1 lead after the first period and held a slim 3–2 edge heading into the third. But the Kings clawed back, with Eddie Joyal scoring twice to flip the game in Los Angeles’ favor at 4-3.

Oakland refused to go quietly. Late in regulation, Gene Ubriaco found the back of the net at 17:22 of the third period, knotting the score at 4-4 and sending the game into sudden-death overtime.

It didn’t take long to settle things. Just 19 seconds into the extra frame, Ted Irvine beat goaltender Gary Smith, with help from Jimmy Peters. The lightning-fast goal set a new NHL record for the quickest overtime tally in league history at the time.

The previous mark had stood for nearly three decades. On March 19, 1940, Syd Howe scored just 25 seconds into overtime for the Detroit Red Wings in a win over the New York Americans.

While Irvine’s record didn’t last forever, it remains a remarkable moment in playoff history. It was eventually surpassed by Brian Skrudland, who scored only nine seconds into overtime for the Montreal Canadiens against the Calgary Flames on May 18, 1986, setting the current benchmark for fastest OT goal.

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Ron Stewart’s Only NHL Hat Trick Comes In A Perfect Night For Toronto

Ron Stewart built a long and reliable 21-year career in the National Hockey League, suiting up for over 1,300 regular season games and adding another 119 in the playoffs. While he was certainly capable offensively, finishing with 276 goals and 529 points, he was never known as a prolific goal scorer. That made one night in December of 1954 stand out above the rest.

Quick Facts

• Ron Stewart recorded the only hat trick of his 21-year NHL career on December 8, 1954
• He scored all three goals for the Toronto Maple Leafs in a 3-1 win over the Montreal Canadiens
• Ed Litzenberger scored Montreal’s lone goal—his final goal with the Canadiens before being traded two days later
• Stewart’s goals came in all three periods, including the game-winner in the second
• He finished the night with 3 goals on just one of his rare multi-goal performances
• Stewart went on to play 21 NHL seasons, totaling 276 goals and 529 points
• He won three consecutive Stanley Cups with Toronto from 1962 to 1964

On December 8, 1954, skating for the Toronto Maple Leafs, Stewart delivered the only hat trick of his NHL career and he did it in dramatic fashion. In front of the home crowd, he scored all three goals in a 3-1 victory over the Montreal Canadiens, accounting for the entirety of Toronto’s offense.

The Canadiens struck first when Ed Litzenberger opened the scoring early, beating Leafs goaltender Harry Lumley for his seventh goal of the season. It would be Montreal’s only goal of the game and, notably, the last Litzenberger would score for the franchise before being traded just two days later.

Stewart took over from there. Late in the first period, he netted his 10th of the season to tie the game, finishing a play set up by Tim Horton and Rudy Migay. He struck again early in the second period, scoring what would stand as the game-winning goal with assists from Jim Morrison and Joe Klukay. Stewart completed the hat trick in the third period, adding an insurance marker with Klukay and Migay once again contributing on the play.

Although it would be his only three-goal game, Stewart’s career was anything but quiet. From 1952-53 through 1972-73, he played for six NHL teams, including the Maple Leafs, Boston Bruins, St. Louis Blues, New York Rangers, Vancouver Canucks, and New York Islanders. His most successful years came in Toronto, where he was part of a dynasty that captured three straight Stanley Cups from 1962 through 1964.

Top Shelf Trivia: The Toronto Maple Leafs

Test your knowledge of one of hockey’s most storied franchises with this collection of challenging and fun Toronto Maple Leafs trivia covering players, games, and unforgettable moments.

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Steve Payne Brings the Pain: North Stars Shock Bruins in 1981

The Minnesota North Stars and Boston Bruins were evenly matched on paper during the 1980-81 NHL season, each finishing with 87 points. But when the playoffs began, that balance quickly disappeared. In their best-of-five opening round series, one player made all the difference: Steve Payne.

Game 1 at Boston Garden on April 8 set the tone. Payne erupted for a hat trick, scoring three of Minnesota’s five goals. His biggest moment came just 3:34 into overtime, when he beat Rogie Vachon to seal the win. Payne had already opened the scoring and tied the game early in the third, delivering a complete performance right out of the gate.

Less than 24 hours later, Payne struck again. In Game 2, he piled up four points with two goals and two assists in a wild 9-6 victory. Once again, he solved Vachon twice before the Bruins turned to Marco Baron in relief. Dino Ciccarelli matched Payne with four points of his own, but it was Payne’s relentless pressure that kept Boston on its heels throughout.

Game 3 back in Minnesota brought even more chaos. The North Stars jumped out to a 4-0 lead, with Payne contributing two goals and an assist in the 6-3 win. The game featured four shorthanded goals, three by Boston and one by Minnesota, but the outcome was never truly in doubt. Payne’s late first-period goal stood as the game-winner, putting the finishing touch on a dominant series.

In just three games, Payne racked up seven goals and three assists for ten points, including two game-winning goals. He stayed hot into the next round, scoring twice in Game 1 against Buffalo. Minnesota rode that momentum all the way to the Stanley Cup Final before falling to the New York Islanders in five games. By the end of the playoffs, Payne had compiled an incredible 29 points in 19 games, cementing his place as one of the most impactful performers of the 1981 postseason.

Mirage of Destiny: The Story of the 1990-91 Minnesota North Stars

A deep dive into the remarkable season of the Minnesota North Stars — their playoff run, key moments, and legacy.

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Toronto’s “Other Swede” Shines: Inge Hammarstrom’s 5-Point Night Powers Leafs Rout

When discussing Swedish pioneers in Toronto Maple Leafs history, Borje Salming is usually the first name that comes to mind. But during the same era, another Swede quietly carved out a strong NHL career: Inge Hammarstrom.

• Inge Hammarstrom records a career-best 5-point night (1 goal, 4 assists)
• Game played February 12, 1977 at Maple Leaf Gardens
• Toronto defeats the Washington Capitals in a dominant 10-0 rout
• Hammarstrom scores his 18th goal of the 1976-77 season
• Goal assisted by Darryl Sittler and Borje Salming
• Adds assists on goals by Sittler (2), Kurt Walker, and Lanny McDonald
• Bernie Wolfe allows 5 goals on 11 shots before being pulled
• Ron Low gives up 5 more goals on 26 shots in relief
• Mike Palmateer earns shutout with 30 saves
• Sittler and McDonald each post 4-point games (2 goals, 2 assists)
• Ian Turnbull contributes 4 assists
• Only Bob Neely and Palmateer held without a point
• Tiger Williams records a goal and a fight, just missing a Gordie Howe hat trick

Joining the Leafs in the 1973-74 season, Hammarstrom never enjoyed the same spotlight as Salming. Criticized at times for a perceived lack of physicality, he still produced consistently, including a 20-goal rookie season and three additional 20+ goal campaigns over his six-year NHL tenure.

On February 12, 1977, at Maple Leaf Gardens, Hammarstrom delivered the best performance of his career in a lopsided matchup against the Washington Capitals.

The game was effectively decided early. Capitals goaltender Bernie Wolfe surrendered five goals on just eleven shots in the first period before being replaced by Ron Low, who allowed five more over the remaining two periods.

Hammarstrom led the offensive charge with a goal and four assists for a five-point night. His lone goal, his 18th of the 1976-77 season, came late in the first period, assisted by Darryl Sittler and Salming. He went on to add helpers on two Sittler goals, as well as tallies by Kurt Walker and Lanny McDonald.

In goal, Mike Palmateer was flawless, stopping all 30 shots he faced to secure the shutout in the 10-0 victory.

Toronto’s offensive dominance didn’t stop with Hammarstrom. Sittler and McDonald each recorded four-point games with two goals and two assists, while Ian Turnbull contributed four assists. Only Bob Neely and Palmateer were held off the scoresheet.

Meanwhile, Tiger Williams nearly completed a Gordie Howe Hat Trick, registering a goal and a fight with Bill Riley, but falling just short of adding an assist.

The King (Borje Salming)

A compelling look at the life and legacy of Borje Salming — one of hockey’s most respected trailblazers and legendary defensemen.

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Bobby Gould’s Big Moment in Washington’s First Playoff Run

The Washington Capitals endured a long and difficult start after entering the NHL in 1974-75. With just eight wins in their inaugural season and no playoff appearances in their first eight years, success seemed distant for the struggling expansion franchise.

That finally changed in 1982-83. The Capitals posted their first winning season and finished third in the Patrick Division, just two points behind the powerhouse New York Islanders, who also happened to be their first-ever playoff opponent.

In Game 1 of that opening-round series, Bobby Gould made franchise history. At 4:01 of the first period, he scored the Capitals’ first playoff goal against Billy Smith, with Dennis Maruk picking up the assist. Gould added another goal in the game, though Washington fell 5-2.

He stayed red-hot in Game 2, scoring twice, including the game-winner, to give the Capitals their first playoff victory. But after that, the Islanders took control, eliminating Washington in four games before continuing their march to another Stanley Cup.

Despite the short series, Gould left his mark with five goals in four games, an unforgettable performance that helped launch Capitals playoff history.

Washington Capitals: Team History

A look back at the history of the Washington Capitals — from expansion years to modern success.

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Rick Vaive & Bill Derlago Combine for 10 Points in Leafs’ 5-2 Win Over Chicago (1982)

When the Toronto Maple Leafs acquired Rick Vaive and Bill Derlago from the Vancouver Canucks in February 1980, the deal didn’t immediately reshape the franchise but it didn’t take long before the duo became offensive cornerstones. During the 1981-82 season, Vaive made history as the first 50-goal scorer in Leafs history, while Derlago enjoyed a breakout campaign with 84 points.

On January 31, 1982, at Chicago Stadium, the pair delivered one of their most dominant performances. Facing the Chicago Blackhawks, Vaive and Derlago factored into every Toronto goal in a convincing 5-2 victory. After a scoreless opening period, Chicago struck first midway through the second when Tom Lysiak found the back of the net.

Toronto answered quickly. Just over three minutes later, Vaive tied the game with assists from Derlago and Borje Salming, sending the teams into the third period deadlocked at one. The Leafs wasted no time taking control in the final frame, as Derlago scored only 35 seconds in to give Toronto a 2-1 lead, with Vaive and John Anderson picking up assists.

The lead was short-lived, as Doug Crossman responded just 23 seconds later for Chicago. But from that point forward, it was all Maple Leafs. Vaive restored the lead with his second goal of the night, his 35th of the season, beating Tony Esposito at 7:31. Derlago and Salming assisted once again, continuing their offensive dominance.

Derlago added his second goal of the game midway through the period, set up by Vaive and Jim Benning. Then, in the final minute, Vaive completed his hat trick with an empty-net goal, finishing off a remarkable night with five points. Derlago matched him with five of his own, giving the duo a combined 10-point performance.

Vaive fired nine of Toronto’s 34 shots on goal, while Derlago made the most of his opportunities, scoring twice on just two shots. In net, Vincent Tremblay turned aside 31 shots to secure the win. The game also featured a spirited fight between Stew Gavin and former Leaf Dave Hutchison, adding extra intensity to an already memorable night.

Catch 22: My Battles, in Hockey and Life

Rick Vaive shares the highs and challenges of his hockey career and personal life in this candid memoir, offering insight into the pressures, triumphs, and battles both on and off the ice.

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