It Happened at the Coliseum … on NOVEMBER 20th

32 years ago tonight (1982) – Bryan Trottier scored the 3,000^th goal in franchise history, but it was Bob Bourne’s opportunity to play hero. Bourne scored the winning goal on a goalmouth scramble with 1:34 to play as the Isles rallied from a 4-3 third period deficit to defeat the Chicago Blackhawks 5-4.  Billy Smith earned the win for the Islanders; it was his 200^th NHL win.  Tony Esposito (6-1-4) suffered his first loss of the season in the Chicago net.

I can't find any video from that night, so here is Smitty's jersey retirement ceremony (from February 20, 1993), including some great recollections from Jiggs McDonald and Ed Westfall

The win continued a dominant stretch for the Islanders over Chicago at the Coliseum, as they improved to 9-0-1 in their last 10 games vs. the Hawks, while extending their home-ice stretch vs. Chicago to 13-0-6.

Also on this date: (1980) – Chico Resch made 24 saves as the Isles blanked Hartford 5-0.  Anders Kallur had two goals and an assist for the Islanders.

All-time, the Isles have played six November 20th games at the Coliseum and finish with a 4-2-0 record on this date at 1255 Hempstead Turnpike in Uniondale.