At the World Championship, Ihnačák defected with the help of his brother John. He was in the opening night lineup of the 1982–83 NHL season, playing on a line with Walt Poddubny and Miroslav Fryčer.
During the World Championship, Ihnačák defected alongside his brother John. He made his debut for the 1982-83 NHL season, joining a line with Walt Poddubny and Miroslav Fryčer.