NY Islanders dynasty began with controversial call Flyers fans still haven’t forgotten

Every year on Long Island, the anniversary of May 24, 1980, is celebrated. It was the day the New York Islanders stopped being an up-and-coming contender, became champions, and set in motion the years that would make them a dynasty.

For Philadelphia Flyers fans, though, it remains something very different.

It is the game of “The Offside.”

Forty-six years later, Islanders fans still replay Bob Nystrom’s overtime Stanley Cup winner with chills. Flyers fans still replay the missed call from linesman Leon Stickle with rage.

And honestly? They kind of have a point.

Game 6 of the 1980 Stanley Cup Final at Nassau Coliseum had everything: tension, controversy, overtime drama and the beginning of one of the greatest dynasties in NHL history. The Islanders entered with a 3-2 series lead, looking to capture the first Stanley Cup in franchise history. But the moment that still haunts Philadelphia came in the first period with the game tied 1-1.

Clark Gillies carried the puck across the blue line before passing it back outside the zone to Butch Goring. Goring re-entered the offensive zone — except several Flyers believed he was clearly offside. Stickle never raised his arm. Goring fed Duane Sutter, and suddenly the Islanders had a 2-1 lead.

Replays show the puck leaving the zone as Goring touched it. It's the type of play that in today's NHL would have resulted in a swift review from Toronto and an overturned goal.

To make matters worse for Flyers fans, the Islanders’ first goal also came amid arguments over a possible high stick from Denis Potvin. Although, to be fair, the replays on that one are still inconclusive. I think the goal would've stood.

The Islanders eventually won 5-4 in overtime on Nystrom’s iconic goal at 7:11 of OT, securing the first of four straight Stanley Cups and launching a run of 19 consecutive playoff series victories — still an NHL record.

On Long Island, it is remembered as the night the dynasty began.

In Philadelphia, it is remembered as the night Leon Stickle changed hockey history.

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