Who Scored the Washington Capitals’ First Playoff Goal?
The Washington Capitals didn’t exactly hit the ground running when they joined the NHL in 1974-75. It took eight long seasons before they finally reached the playoffs but when they did in 1983, they made history right away.
Facing the defending champion New York Islanders, it was Bobby Gould who delivered the franchise’s first playoff goal. He scored early in Game 1 against Billy Smith, with help from Dennis Maruk.
Gould didn’t stop there, he scored twice in Game 1 and added two more (including the game-winner) in Game 2, giving Washington its first postseason win.
The Islanders would go on to win the series in four and eventually capture the Stanley Cup, but Gould’s five goals in four games ensured that the Capitals’ playoff debut wouldn’t be forgotten.
