Darryl Sittler reflects on a historic night that still resonates nearly 50 years later. Back in 1976, amid the usual buzz in the newspapers, Toronto Maple Leafs owner Harold Ballard made headlines criticizing the team’s lack of a center. However, head coach Red Kelly defied expectations and kept Sittler in the center position alongside Lanny McDonald and Errol Thompson.
The decision paid off when Sittler delivered a remarkable performance on February 7, 1976, against the Boston Bruins, setting an NHL record with an astounding 10 points – six goals and four assists in a single game. Even now, almost five decades later, Sittler’s record remains untouched, a testament to a magical night that captured the hearts of hockey fans.
The Maple Leafs will pay tribute to this historic achievement before the Olympic break as they face the Buffalo Sabres in their final home game. Sittler, now 75, expressed gratitude for being able to share and celebrate the memory with fans, teammates, and loved ones.
The unforgettable game, broadcast on “Hockey Night in Canada,” ended with an 11-4 victory for the Maple Leafs, solidifying Sittler’s place in NHL history. His exceptional feat surpassed records set by legends like Maurice Richard and Bert Olmstead, standing out as a rare and remarkable accomplishment in the world of hockey.
Sittler’s journey that night unfolded with precision and excitement, building up to a record-breaking performance that left a lasting impact on the sport. His teammates, including McDonald, fondly remember the joy and camaraderie that filled the air as they witnessed history in the making.
As Sittler reflects on that fateful night, he acknowledges the special bond shared among players and fans over this remarkable achievement. Despite the Maple Leafs’ prolonged Stanley Cup drought, the legacy of Sittler’s historic game continues to inspire and uplift spirits within the hockey community.