TORONTO -- The Toronto Maple Leafs' Mike Babcock made the first coach's challenge in NHL history and was successful in overturning a goal by the Montreal Canadiens.
Babcock, making his coaching debut for Toronto, challenged Jeff Petry's apparent goal in the second period of the opener Wednesday night, arguing that Tomas Plekanec interfered with goalie Jonathan Bernier. Referees Frederik L'Ecuyer and Dan O'Rourke looked at the replay by the penalty box at Air Canada Centre and determined Plekanec made incidental contact with Bernier.
The effort would turn out to be futile, as Carey Price made 36 saves and the Canadiens beat the Leafs 3-1.
Challenges are new to the NHL this season and can be made on goals involving goalie interference or offside plays.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.