On the new league's opening night, Dec. 19, 1917, only 700 fans were on hand as the Wanderers beat Toronto 10-9. Ottawa goalie inspires quick rule changeIt took less than a month for the first rule change, which allowed goalies to drop to the ice to make saves where they previously had to remain upright. The new rule was inspired by Ottawa's Clint Benedict, a master at "accidentally" losing his footing when shots were being taken. While Quebec City had rejoined the league, moved to Hamilton, and then folded, the NHL was booming in the United States. Rise of powerhouse teamsThen came an extended period of stability, marked by the rise of powerhouse teams in Detroit, Montreal, Toronto and then Montreal again.

Source: CBC News November 17, 2017 15:11 UTC