What is the term for a team that scores first in a hockey game?

The term "first goal scorer" refers specifically to the player or team that scores the very first goal in a hockey game. This term is widely used in hockey terminology and is important because the first goal can often set the tone for the rest of the game, influencing momentum and strategies for both teams. The initial score establishes a lead that can have psychological implications for the opponents, often affecting their performance and decision-making throughout the match.

Other options, while they contain elements relevant to scoring, do not accurately describe the act of scoring the first goal. Terms like "opening team" or "initial score team" do not have established meanings in the context of hockey and may not effectively convey the specific achievement of the first goal scorer. "Lead scorer" typically refers to a player with the most goals over a series of games or a season, which again does not address the particular event of scoring first in a specific match.