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