The Philadelphia Flyers, representing the city of Philadelphia, entered the National Hockey League (NHL) in the 1967–68 season, officially making their debut on October 11, 1967.
The Philadelphia Flyers' NHL Debut
Philadelphia became an NHL city as part of the league's significant expansion in 1967, which doubled the number of teams from six to twelve. The Philadelphia Flyers were one of the six new franchises, alongside the California Seals (later Oakland Seals and California Golden Seals), Los Angeles Kings, Minnesota North Stars, Pittsburgh Penguins, and St. Louis Blues. Their inaugural season commenced in 1967–68, marking a pivotal moment in the league's history and the start of professional hockey in Philadelphia.
Inaugural Game Details
The Flyers' first-ever regular season game took place on October 11, 1967. They played on the road against another expansion team, the California Seals, and experienced a 5–1 defeat. This game marked the official entry of Philadelphia into the competitive world of the NHL.
First Victory
Despite the opening loss, the Flyers quickly found their footing. They secured their first NHL victory just a week after their debut, defeating the St. Louis Blues on the road with a score of 2–1. This win was a significant milestone, establishing their presence and competitive spirit in the league.
Here's a quick summary of their entry milestones:
| Event | Date | Opponent / Outcome |
|---|---|---|
| NHL Entry Season | 1967–68 | N/A |
| Official NHL Debut Game | October 11, 1967 | California Seals (5–1 loss) |
| First NHL Regular Season Win | A week after debut | St. Louis Blues (2–1 win) |
The Flyers quickly became an integral part of the NHL, eventually winning their first Stanley Cup in 1974, just seven years after their entry.
For more information on the team's history, you can visit the Philadelphia Flyers Wikipedia page.
