Wayne Gretzky Scores First Point of his Career in NHL Debut

After the World Hockey Association folded in 1979, the Edmonton Oilers and three other teams joined the NHL. Gretzky's success in the WHA carried over into the NHL, despite some critics suggesting he would flounder in what was considered the bigger, tougher, and more talented league. The Oilers, like the other surviving WHA teams, were allowed to protect two goaltenders and two skaters from being reclaimed by the established NHL teams, of which one skater was Gretzky.

The Edmonton, Hartford, Quebec and Winnipeg franchises join the NHL for the 1979-80 season. Gretzky makes his NHL debut on Oct. 10 and registers his first career NHL point, an assist on Kevin Lowe's goal against Chicago.

1979

October 10

In his NHL debut, scored the first point of his career, as he set up a Kevin Lowe goal at Chicago