This Day in Hockey History
1971 - Lafleur makes Canadiens debut
Guy Lafleur, the No. 1 overall selection of the Montreal Canadiens, dons an NHL sweater for the first time, collecting three assists in a 7-4 exhibition victory over the Boston Bruins at the Forum.
His nearly supernatural scoring touch in junior - 130 goals and 209 points in his final season with the QMJHL's Quebec Ramparts - translates modestly to the NHL brand in his rookie season.
He collects 29 goals and 64 points, but is overshadowed by goaltender Ken Dryden, his teammate and Calder Trophy winner.
Lafleur finally hits his stride and lives up to the lofty expectations beset upon him in 1974 with a run of six straight seasons scoring at least 119 points.
Birthdays
1962 - Scott Arniel
1969 - Rob Zamuner
1978 - Shawn Horcoff
1982 - Yutaka Fukufuji
1985 - Alex Ovechkin
1985 - Mason Raymond