#31
Goaltender • #31
Billy Smith
"Battlin' Billy"
4 Stanley Cups
Hall of Fame 1993
Retired #31
Born: Perth, ON — December 12, 1950 • Drafted: 1970 • Islanders: 1972–1989
Billy Smith was one of the most competitive and ferocious goalies in NHL history. Known as "Battlin' Billy" for his willingness to use his stick on any opponent who dared enter his crease, he was the backbone of the dynasty. He won the Conn Smythe in 1983 after holding Wayne Gretzky scoreless in the Finals. He was also the first goalie officially credited with a goal in NHL history (November 28, 1979). His 680 career games were all played in an Islanders uniform.