NHL History for October 12: First Wins, Hat Tricks, and Milestones
October 12 in NHL history includes the New York Islanders' first franchise win in 1972 and the Columbus Blue Jackets' first victory in 2000. The date also featured notable firsts such as Larry Sacharuk's hat trick for St. Louis and Danny Gare's first career hat trick. Other milestones include Dave Taylor's debut, goaltending memories, and the 100,000th goal in NHL play.
On October 12, 1972, the Islanders earned their first franchise victory by holding off Los Angeles after Germain Gagnon broke a late tie; Billy Harris, the 1972 top pick, scored twice. In 2000, Columbus won its first game at Calgary, with Rostislav Klesla and two Kevyn Adams goals supporting Ron Tugnutt’s 19 saves.
The date also marks several personal firsts: Larry Sacharuk’s hat trick ended St. Louis’ long road winless streak, Danny Gare recorded his first hat trick, Glenn Anderson his first goal, Dave Taylor debuted, and Alexei Kovalev began his Rangers career with a goal.
For hockey fans and historians, this retrospective may strengthen shared memory of expansion-era teams and early player milestones. Supporters of the Islanders and Blue Jackets could feel renewed pride in their clubs’ origins, while followers of players like Taylor or Kovalev may revisit formative moments. Such stories may also help newer audiences understand how league growth, first wins, and individual debuts shaped the sport’s broader narrative.