Dec 1, 2025
Opening Night 1972-73: Islanders vs. Flames: A Game Full of Firsts
Two brand-new NHL teams met for the first time on October 7, 1972: the New York Islanders and Atlanta Flames. From first goals to first penalties, the night was packed with history.
Morris Stefaniw scored the very first goal, and first shorthanded goal, in Flames history. Ed Westfall responded with the first goal (and first power-play goal) in Islanders history. Bob Leiter later netted the first game-winner for Atlanta, and Phil Myre earned the Flames’ first franchise victory.