Playing out of the old Stampede Corral, the Calgary Flames had a strong first season in their new home in 1980-81.
They posted a 39-27-14 record landing them third in the league’s Patrick Division. In their new home, Calgary was birthed into the playoffs with who they met the Chicago Blackhawks in the first round.
After sweeping them in three games, Calgary moved onto the Philadelphia Flyers in round two. And today, in 1981, the Flames completed the series capping off a 4-1 game seven win.
Calgary had built up a 2-0 lead after the first frame in thanks to powerplay markers from Willi Plett and Ken Houston, before Kevin LaValle grew it to 3-0 in the second. Bill Barber scored in the second for Philly, and Bob MacMillan capped it for Calgary with a third period goal.
Throughout the night, though, Paul Reinhart found himself in the action for Calgary. He ended up with three assists on the Houston, LaValle and MacMillan goals.
After eliminating the Flyers, Calgary matched up with the Minnesota North Stars in the third round, who the Flames would fall to in six games.
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