New York Islanders’ Potvin’s three playoff power-play goals tie NHL record versus Edmonton Oilers.

On April 17, 1981, the New York Islanders’ Denis Potvin made NHL history by scoring three power-play goals in a playoff game against the Edmonton Oilers. This incredible feat tied a record that had only been achieved once before in the history of the league. Let’s take a closer look at this momentous event and its significance in the world of hockey.

The game took place during the 1981 Stanley Cup playoffs, a time when both the Islanders and the Oilers were considered powerhouse teams in the league. The Islanders had already won the Stanley Cup the previous year and were determined to defend their title, while the Oilers were a young and talented team led by future Hall of Famers Wayne Gretzky and Mark Messier.

With the series tied at two games apiece, Game 5 was crucial for both teams. The game started off in favor of the Islanders, as they quickly found themselves on the power play when Oilers defenseman Kevin Lowe was penalized for holding. This set the stage for Potvin to make his mark on the game and the NHL record books.

Just 52 seconds into the power play, Potvin fired a booming slap shot from the point that found the back of the net, giving the Islanders an early lead. The Nassau Coliseum erupted with cheers as the home team took control of the game.

But Potvin was not done yet. Later in the first period, the Islanders found themselves on another power play opportunity, and Potvin seized the moment once again. This time, he scored with a wrist shot from the left faceoff circle, extending the Islanders’ lead to 2-0. The crowd went wild, recognizing the rare achievement of witnessing a player score two power-play goals in a single game.

As the game progressed, the tension in the arena grew. The Islanders were determined to hold on to their lead, and the Oilers were desperate to mount a comeback. With just under eight minutes left in the second period, the Islanders were granted another power play after Oilers forward Risto Siltanen was sent to the penalty box for slashing.

Potvin, aware of the opportunity to make history, positioned himself in his favorite spot on the ice – the top of the left faceoff circle. As the puck made its way to him, he unleashed a powerful shot that sailed past Oilers goalie Andy Moog, completing his hat trick of power-play goals. The crowd erupted into a frenzy, showering the ice with hats in recognition of Potvin’s incredible achievement.

Despite Potvin’s heroics, the game was far from over. The Oilers fought back, scoring two quick goals to narrow the Islanders’ lead. The third period saw intense back-and-forth action, with both teams desperate to gain the upper hand. In the end, the Islanders held on to their lead and secured a 4-2 victory, moving one step closer to their quest for a second consecutive Stanley Cup.

Potvin’s three power-play goals tied a record previously set by Darryl Sittler of the Toronto Maple Leafs in 1976. It was a remarkable accomplishment that showcased Potvin’s offensive prowess and ability to rise to the occasion in crucial moments. The game solidified Potvin’s status as one of the greatest defensemen in the history of the NHL.

The Islanders went on to win the series against the Oilers, eventually reaching the Stanley Cup Finals. They went on to win their second consecutive championship that year, cementing their dynasty status in the annals of hockey history.

The game between the New York Islanders and the Edmonton Oilers on April 17, 1981, will forever be remembered for Denis Potvin’s remarkable achievement of scoring three power-play goals. It was a historic moment that showcased the skill and determination of a player who left an indelible mark on the sport of hockey.