NHL Tickets
View All NHL Tickets Here
The history of the National Hockey League (NHL) is rich with great moments, legendary players, and unforgettable games. Here's a brief overview of some key milestones, players, and games that have shaped the NHL's history:
Formation of the NHL (1917): The NHL was founded on November 26, 1917, in Montreal, Quebec, Canada. It started with four teams: Montreal Canadiens, Montreal Wanderers, Ottawa Senators, and Toronto Arenas.
Original Six Era (1942-1967): The league expanded gradually, and by 1942, six teams formed the "Original Six": Montreal Canadiens, Toronto Maple Leafs, Boston Bruins, Detroit Red Wings, Chicago Blackhawks, and New York Rangers.
Rocket Richard's 50 Goals in 50 Games (1944-45): Montreal Canadiens' Maurice "Rocket" Richard became the first player to score 50 goals in 50 games during the 1944-45 season, a feat that remains one of the most celebrated in NHL history.
Gordie Howe's Career (1946-1980): Gordie Howe, known as "Mr. Hockey," played an incredible 26 seasons in the NHL and became one of the greatest players in the history of the league. He held numerous records and won four Stanley Cups with the Detroit Red Wings.
The Original Six Expansion (1967): The league expanded for the first time since its inception, doubling in size with the addition of six new teams: Philadelphia Flyers, Pittsburgh Penguins, Los Angeles Kings, Oakland Seals, Minnesota North Stars, and St. Louis Blues.
Bobby Orr's Flying Goal (1970): Bobby Orr's iconic goal during the 1970 Stanley Cup Finals is one of the most famous moments in NHL history. He scored the game-winning goal, and a photograph capturing him in mid-air is an enduring image.
The Summit Series (1972): The eight-game series between Canada and the Soviet Union showcased some of the best hockey ever played. Canada ultimately won the series in a highly intense and emotional competition.
The Gretzky Era (1979-1999): Wayne Gretzky, "The Great One," dominated the league in the 1980s. He set numerous records and won four Stanley Cups with the Edmonton Oilers. His trade to the Los Angeles Kings in 1988 helped popularize hockey in the United States.
Mario Lemieux's Comeback (1993): Mario Lemieux returned to the NHL after battling cancer and went on to win the scoring title and the Hart Trophy. His comeback is an inspirational story in NHL history.
1994 Stanley Cup Finals (New York Rangers): The New York Rangers ended a 54-year championship drought by winning the Stanley Cup in a thrilling seven-game series against the Vancouver Canucks. Mark Messier's leadership and performance were instrumental.
Dominik Hasek's Dominance (1990s): Dominik Hasek, known as "The Dominator," revolutionized goaltending in the 1990s. He won multiple Vezina Trophies and back-to-back Hart Trophies as the league's most valuable player.
The Colorado Avalanche and Detroit Red Wings Rivalry (1996-2002): The late 1990s saw an intense rivalry between the Colorado Avalanche and Detroit Red Wings, highlighted by memorable playoff matchups and fierce on-ice battles.
The Salary Cap Era (2005-present): The NHL implemented a salary cap in 2005, ushering in a new era of competitive balance and parity among teams.
Chicago Blackhawks' Dynasty (2010, 2013, 2015): The Blackhawks won three Stanley Cups in six years, solidifying their status as a modern-day dynasty with a core group of talented players.
Alex Ovechkin's Goal-Scoring Prowess: Washington Capitals' Alex Ovechkin has become one of the greatest goal scorers in NHL history, consistently leading the league in goals.
Seattle Kraken Expansion (2021): The NHL expanded once again with the addition of the Seattle Kraken, bringing the total number of teams to 32.
These moments and players represent just a fraction of the rich history of the NHL, which continues to evolve with each passing season. The league's legacy is built on the dedication and talent of countless individuals who have contributed to the sport of hockey at its highest level. Make sure to check out our huge selection of NHL tickets below.