Darryl Sittler, a name etched in NHL history, achieved something truly extraordinary on a fateful night in Toronto at Maple Leaf Gardens. It was February 7, 1976, when Sittler, a talented center for the Toronto Maple Leafs, accomplished what no other player had done before – he scored an astonishing ten points in a single game. This remarkable feat not only solidified Sittler’s place among the greatest players of his era but also set a record that still stands today.
The Game Of A Lifetime:
To truly appreciate the magnitude of Sittler’s ten-point game, let’s take a closer look at how he achieved this remarkable feat.
In the first period, Sittler wasted no time, scoring two goals and assisting on two others. He continued his dominance in the second period, netting two more goals and adding another assist. With four goals and three assists already on the board, he entered the final period hungry for more.
Sittler didn’t disappoint. He completed his historic performance with two additional assists and his sixth goal of the game, solidifying his place in hockey folklore. It was a mesmerizing display of skill and determination that will forever be remembered.
Career Overview:
Darryl Sittler, born on September 18, 1950, in St. Jacobs, Ontario and had a prolific NHL career spanning from 1970 to 1985.
His exceptional play as a junior with the London Knights of the Ontario Hockey Association (OHA) solidified his reputation as a rising star and in 1970, the Toronto Maple Leafs selected Sittler as the eighth overall pick in the NHL Entry Draft. The young centerman was ready to take on the professional league and showcase his skills on the grand stage. He is mostly remembered for his time with the Toronto Maple Leafs, where he achieved the pinnacle of his success.
NHL Teams:
Darryl Sittler played for three NHL teams during his career:
- Toronto Maple Leafs (1970-1982)
- Philadelphia Flyers (1982-1984)
- Detroit Red Wings (1984-1985)
Career Statistics:
- Games Played: 1,096
- Goals: 484
- Assists: 637
- Points: 1,121
Notable Achievements and Records:
- Sittler’s most notable achievement occurred on February 7, 1976, when he set an NHL record by scoring 10 points (6 goals, 4 assists) in a single game against the Boston Bruins.
- He remains the Leafs’ all-time leader in single-season points, registering 117 points during the 1977-78 season.
- Sittler was the first Leaf to score 100 points in a single season, achieving this milestone in the 1975-76 season.
- Second in all time scoring as a Leaf behind Mats Sundin
- Sittler was captain of the Maple Leafs between 1975 and 1979, as well as between 1980 and 1982.
Awards and Honors:
- NHL All-Star:
- Darryl Sittler was selected to the NHL All-Star Game eight times (1972, 1973, 1974, 1975, 1976, 1977, 1980, 1982).
- King Clancy Memorial Trophy:
- Awarded in 1982 for leadership on and off the ice, as well as humanitarian contributions to the community.
- Lester Patrick Trophy:
- Received in 1991 for outstanding service to hockey in the United States.
Legacy: Darryl Sittler’s contribution to the game of hockey goes beyond statistics and awards. He is revered for his skill, leadership, and dedication to the sport, leaving a lasting legacy as one of the NHL’s most respected and accomplished players. His impact on the Toronto Maple Leafs franchise and the game of hockey as a whole is undeniable.
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