1. The first goal
Amidst it all, Pettersson’s first NHL goal is the one that first showed fans that this guy was a special player. He had a few eye-catching moments during the preseason, but in the end, those games don’t count.
For Pettersson to score his first goal on the very first shot he took in the NHL — well, that’s just special. It’s only fitting that Pettersson’s career got off to that kind of start.
Perhaps nobody described it better than Dave Randorf. “This place is going crazy for a guy that they are hoping is going to be a star in the making.”
Rumour has it Mike Smith is still looking for that puck to this day.
Honourable Mention
The list focuses on moments during Pettersson’s first 100 games in the NHL, but I felt like I should add in his Calder Trophy acceptance speech. Pettersson took the opportunity to thank those who voted for him, including Jason Botchford, who Pettersson described as a great man, and a great reporter who was loved and respected by everyone.
After 100 games, it’s becoming more and more clear that Pettersson may go down as one of the greatest superstars this city has ever known, if not the greatest.