The passion for hockey runs deep in Canada’s veins, unmatched anywhere else globally. With a population of 34 million, Canada proudly hosts seven NHL teams—a number that speaks volumes about the country’s deep-rooted love for the sport. To put it in perspective, California, with its 39 million residents, is home to only three NHL teams.
Which teams represent Canada in the NHL? The nation’s dedication to hockey is embodied by its seven teams: the Montreal Canadiens (since 1917), Toronto Maple Leafs (since 1917), Vancouver Canucks (since 1970), Edmonton Oilers (since 1979), Calgary Flames (since 1980), Ottawa Senators (since 1992), and Winnipeg Jets (since 2011).
Diving into the history of these teams, we’ll explore significant milestones, legendary players, honored jerseys, and the illustrious Stanley Cups they’ve claimed. Moreover, we’ll uncover a unique aspect of Canadian teams—a certain achievement that has eluded them since the year 1993.
The Seven NHL Teams of Canada
Delving into the rich tapestry of Canadian hockey, one finds a significant presence within the National Hockey League (NHL). Canada proudly boasts seven NHL teams, each representing a distinct region and contributing to the country’s storied hockey legacy. Below is an alphabetical list of these seven Canadian NHL teams:
- Calgary Flames;
- Edmonton Oilers;
- Montreal Canadiens;
- Ottawa Senators;
- Toronto Maple Leafs;
- Vancouver Canucks;
- Winnipeg Jets.
These teams serve as pillars of Canadian hockey, captivating fans with their skill, passion, and unwavering commitment to the game. Let’s embark on a journey to explore the vibrant world of Canadian NHL hockey, where these seven teams stand as ambassadors of the nation’s love for the sport.
Calgary Flames
Established in 1972 as the Atlanta Flames, the Calgary Flames made their debut in Alberta during the 1980-81 NHL season. Their home arena, the Scotiabank Saddledome, accommodates 19,289 passionate fans.
Achievements
- Stanley Cups: 1 (1989);
- Hall of Famers: Lanny McDonald, Joe Mullen, Grant Fuhr, Al MacInnis, Brett Hull, Doug Gilmour, Joe Nieuwendyk, Sergei Makarov, Martin St. Louis;
- Retired Numbers: Lanny McDonald (9), Jarome Iginla (12), Mike Vernon (G);
- NHL Playoff Appearances: 29;
- Franchise Scoring Leaders:
- Points: Jarome Iginla (1095);
- Goals: Jarome Iginla (525);
- Assists: Al MacInnis (609).
Flames’ Legacy
The pinnacle of the Flames’ history shines brightly with their Stanley Cup victory in 1989. This historic moment was marked by the legendary Lanny McDonald, whose final game in the NHL culminated in a decisive goal during the championship clincher.
Challenges and Current Outlook
Despite their illustrious past, recent years have been less triumphant for the Flames. Apart from their 2004 Stanley Cup Finals appearance, where they fell short against the Lightning in a gripping seven-game series, and the outstanding performance of Jarome Iginla, the Flames’ postseason success has been scarce.
Remarkably, excluding the 2004 season, the Flames have only managed to win a single playoff series throughout their history. This lackluster performance has left many questioning the team’s identity and direction.
Inconsistencies in performance have plagued the Flames in recent seasons. While they secured the second-best record in the Western Conference two years ago, they fell short of playoff contention last season. The departure of head coach Darryl Sutter, amidst reports of a toxic team environment and underwhelming results, underscores the challenges facing the Flames as they strive to reclaim their former glory.
Edmonton Oilers
Established in 1971, the Edmonton Oilers initially skated onto the ice as a powerhouse in the World Hockey Association (WHA) from 1972 to 1979 before transitioning to the NHL for the 1979-80 season. Their home base is the Rogers Place, boasting an enthusiastic capacity of 18,500 fans.
Achievements
- Stanley Cups: 5 (1984, 1985, 1987, 1988, 1990);
- Hall of Famers: Glenn Anderson, Paul Coffey, Grant Fuhr, Wayne Gretzky, Jari Kurri, Mark Messier, Adam Oates, Jacques Plante, Chris Pronger, Norm Ullman;
- Retired Numbers: Al Hamilton (3), Paul Coffey (7), Glenn Anderson (9), Mark Messier (11), Jari Kurri (17), Grant Fuhr (31), Wayne Gretzky (99);
- NHL Playoff Appearances: 21;
- Franchise Scoring Leaders:
- Points: Wayne Gretzky (1773);
- Goals: Wayne Gretzky (626);
- Assists: Wayne Gretzky (1147).
Oilers’ Legacy
The Oilers’ golden era glittered throughout the 1980s, featuring iconic players like Wayne Gretzky, Mark Messier, and Grant Fuhr. This era witnessed the Oilers’ dominance, clinching five Stanley Cups and earning acclaim as one of the greatest NHL teams ever assembled.
Challenges and Current Outlook
Since their last Stanley Cup triumph in 1990, the Oilers have faced adversity and fluctuating fortunes. Despite a memorable Stanley Cup Finals appearance in 2006, culminating in a heart-wrenching Game 7 loss to the Carolina Hurricanes, sustained success has remained elusive.
In recent years, the Oilers have grappled with mediocrity, punctuated by a series of first overall draft picks. However, the acquisition of generational talent Connor McDavid, widely regarded as the best player in the world, injects hope and expectation into the team’s future.
Now, with a roster anchored by McDavid and fellow star Leon Draisaitl, the Oilers are poised for a championship push. The team’s ambition is clear: nothing less than a Stanley Cup will suffice. With McDavid and Draisaitl in their prime and supported by a solid supporting cast, the Oilers are ready to seize the moment.
Rooted in hockey history, the Montreal Canadiens emerged onto the scene in 1909 as a member of the National Hockey Association (NHA) before becoming a foundational franchise of the NHL in 1917. Their home ice is the illustrious Centre Bell, accommodating a fervent crowd of 21,273 supporters.
Montreal Canadiens
Achievements
- Stanley Cups: 24;
- Hall of Famers: 55;
- Retired Numbers: Jacques Plantes (1), Doug Harvey (2), Emile Bouchard (3), Jean Beliveau (4), Bernie Geoffrion (5), Guy Lapointe (5), Howie Morenz (7), Maurice Richard (9), Guy Lafleur (10), Dickie Moore (12), Yvan Cournoyer (12), Henri Richard (16), Elmer Lach (16), Serge Savard (18), Larry Robinson (19), Bob Gainey (23), Ken Dryden (29), Patrick Roy (33);
- NHL Playoff Appearances: 83;
- Franchise Scoring Leaders:
- Points: Guy Lafleur (1,246);
- Goals: Maurice Richard (544);
- Assists: Guy Lafleur (728).
Montreal’s Legacy
As the epicenter of hockey, Montreal boasts an unparalleled legacy. With a staggering 24 Stanley Cup victories, the Canadiens reign supreme as the most successful hockey franchise in history. The rich tapestry of hockey lore woven around the team draws fans from far and wide, making a visit to the Centre Bell on a Saturday night an unforgettable experience.
Challenges and Current Outlook
Despite their storied past, the present for the Montreal Canadiens is marked by uncertainty and transition. Following a surprising journey to the Stanley Cup finals in 2021, the team has encountered a rapid decline. Key players have been traded away, and the loss of star goaltender Carey Price to injury has cast a shadow over the team’s prospects.
Montreal finds itself in the throes of a comprehensive rebuild, a process that typically demands patience and perseverance. While promising talent like 1st overall draft pick Jaroslav Slafkovsky offers hope for the future, the road to redemption is arduous.
Expectations of another high-end draft pick loom on the horizon as Montreal navigates the complexities of rebuilding. With the journey likely to extend over several years, Canadiens fans must brace themselves for a period of rebuilding and recalibration as the team charts its course toward a brighter future.
Ottawa Senators
Established in 1992, the Ottawa Senators stand as a distinct entity from their namesake predecessors, the original Ottawa Senators of 1917-1934. Their home arena, the Canadian Tire Centre, accommodates a capacity crowd of 19,153 enthusiastic fans.
Achievements
- Stanley Cups: 0;
- Hall of Famers: Dominik Hasek;
- Retired Numbers: Frank Finnigan (8), Daniel Alfredsson (11), Chris Phillips (4);
- NHL Playoff Appearances: 16;
- Franchise Scoring Leaders:
- Points: Daniel Alfredsson (1,108);
- Goals: Daniel Alfredsson (426);
- Assists: Daniel Alfredsson (682).
Highlights and Current State
While the original Ottawa Senators boast 11 Stanley Cup victories, the modern iteration, founded in 1992, seeks to carve out its own legacy. Notably, the team reached the Stanley Cup Finals in 2007, showcasing their potential for greatness.
Emerging from a period of rebuilding, the Ottawa Senators have worked diligently to assemble a competitive roster. Bolstering their ranks with seasoned veterans like Claude Giroux and Jakob Chychrun, the Senators are primed to challenge for a coveted playoff berth.
The team’s young core, spearheaded by standout talents like Tim Stutzle, Brady Tkachuk, Thomas Chabot, Jake Sanderson, and Josh Norris, injects optimism and excitement into the Senators’ future prospects. Stutzle, in particular, demonstrates the potential to ascend into the upper echelons of NHL stardom.
As the Senators aim to navigate the competitive landscape of the NHL, their blend of seasoned veterans and burgeoning young stars positions them as formidable contenders. While playoff contention is within reach, the Senators face the daunting task of overcoming formidable adversaries on their journey to hockey glory.
Toronto Maple Leafs
Established in 1917, the Toronto Maple Leafs, formerly known as the Arenas and St. Patrick’s, have been a cornerstone of the NHL since its inception. Their home ice is the Scotiabank Arena, boasting a capacity of 18,819 fervent fans.
Achievements
- Stanley Cups: 13;
- Hall of Famers: 61;
- Retired Numbers: Turk Broda (1), Johnny Bower (1), Hap Day (4), Red Kelly (4), Bill Barilko (5), Ace Bailey (6), King Clancy (7), Tim Horton (7), Charlie Conacher (9), Ted Kennedy (9), Syl Apps (10), George Armstrong (10), Mats Sundin (13), Dave Keon (14), Wendel Clark (17), Borje Salming (21), Frank Mahovlich (27), Darryl Sittler (27), Doug Gilmour (93);
- NHL Playoff Appearances: 68;
- Franchise Scoring Leaders:
- Points: Mats Sundin (987);
- Goals: Mats Sundin (420);
- Assists: Borje Salming (620).
Highlights and Current State
As one of the NHL’s Original 4 teams, the Toronto Maple Leafs boast an illustrious history, including 13 Stanley Cup victories. However, the last championship triumph dates back to 1967, marking the longest Stanley Cup drought in NHL history at 54 years and counting.
Despite the lengthy championship hiatus, the Maple Leafs field a formidable roster led by superstar Auston Matthews. Yet, their path to Stanley Cup contention is fraught with challenges, particularly in the fiercely competitive division they inhabit.
Toronto’s quest for playoff success hinges on navigating through perennial powerhouses like the Tampa Bay Lightning, Boston Bruins, and Florida Panthers. However, optimism abounds as the current Leafs lineup showcases exceptional forward talent, although defensive depth remains a concern.
Under the stewardship of new General Manager Brad Treliving, the Maple Leafs have bolstered their lineup with added toughness, aiming to overcome the perennial playoff obstacles that have eluded them in recent years. As the Leafs embark on their quest for championship glory, hopes are high that this could be the year they break the longstanding drought and hoist the Stanley Cup once again.
Winnipeg Jets
Established in 1999 as the Atlanta Thrashers before relocating to Winnipeg in 2011 to become the Jets, the current iteration of the Winnipeg Jets represents the second incarnation of the franchise. Their home arena, the Bell MTS Place, hosts a passionate crowd of 16,345 supporters.
Achievements
- Stanley Cups: 0;
- Hall of Famers: 0;
- Retired Numbers: 0;
- NHL Playoff Appearances: 4;
- Franchise Scoring Leaders:
- Points: Ilya Kovalchuk (615);
- Goals: Ilya Kovalchuk (328);
- Assists: Blake Wheeler (390).
Highlights and Current State
The Winnipeg Jets, despite sharing a name with the original Jets franchise that later became the Arizona Coyotes, trace their roots back to the Atlanta Thrashers. Since their relocation to Winnipeg, the Jets have carved out their own identity and history.
Unlike their predecessors, the current Winnipeg Jets have yet to secure a Stanley Cup victory or reach the finals. While boasting competitive rosters in recent years, they have fallen short of establishing themselves as bona fide Stanley Cup contenders.
The previous season ended in disappointment for the Jets, as they narrowly secured a playoff berth only to suffer a comprehensive defeat at the hands of the Vegas Golden Knights. This outcome underscored the team’s struggle to break free from the middle ground between playoff qualification and championship contention.
With the potential for bounce-back performances from key players like Connor Hellebuyck and Mark Scheifele, the Jets aim to recapture their former prowess. However, the looming possibility of a rebuild looms large, particularly if the team fails to achieve significant progress during the upcoming season.
As the Winnipeg Jets navigate the competitive landscape of the NHL, they face the challenge of transcending their middling status and ascending to the ranks of genuine Stanley Cup contenders.
Vancouver Canucks
Founded in 1970, the Vancouver Canucks have been a beloved fixture in the NHL landscape. Their home ice is Rogers Arena, where up to 18,910 enthusiastic fans gather to support their team.
Achievements
- Stanley Cups: 0;
- Hall of Famers: Igor Larionov, Mark Messier, Cam Neely, Pavel Bure, Mats Sundin;
- Retired Numbers: Pavel Bure (10), Stan Smyl (12), Trevor Linden (16), Markus Naslund (19);
- NHL Playoff Appearances: 27
- Franchise Scoring Leaders:
- Points: Henrik Sedin (1,070);
- Goals: Daniel Sedin (393);
- Assists: Henrik Sedin (830).
Highlights and Current State
The Vancouver Canucks boast a dedicated fan base known for their unwavering passion and support. Despite a storied history filled with memorable moments, the elusive Stanley Cup remains a glaring omission from their trophy cabinet.
Notably, the Canucks have reached the Stanley Cup Finals three times, experiencing heartbreak with two Game 7 losses. Despite the presence of iconic players like Trevor Linden, Daniel and Henrik Sedin, and Markus Naslund, championship glory has remained just out of reach.
Presently, the Canucks find themselves in a transitional phase, characterized by a mix of promising young talent and areas needing improvement. Players like Quinn Hughes, Elias Pettersson, and Thatcher Demko offer glimpses of a bright future, yet the team requires bolstering in defensive depth and roster balance.
Under the guidance of new coach Rick Tocchet, the Canucks aim to build upon the positive momentum from the previous season. However, their trajectory remains uncertain, with playoff contention hanging in the balance. While a playoff berth is within reach if all elements align, the Canucks face stiff competition in a fiercely competitive league.
Former Canadian NHL Franchises
These defunct NHL teams in Canada once graced the ice with their presence but are no longer in existence. It’s important to note that another iteration of the Ottawa Senators and Winnipeg Jets exists in the league today.
The original Ottawa Senators competed from 1917 to 1934. While the current Ottawa Senators share the team name, any records or Stanley Cups from the old version are not recognized by either the team or the NHL.
The original Winnipeg Jets relocated to become the Phoenix/Arizona Coyotes. However, Winnipeg regained an NHL franchise in 2011 when the Atlanta Thrashers moved to the city, rebranding as the Jets. It’s essential to clarify that there is no connection between the two Jets teams.
Before joining the NHL, the Senators, Nordiques, and Jets competed in other leagues. The dates mentioned below indicate when they entered the NHL:
- Ottawa Senators (1917-1934): Relocated to become the St. Louis Eagles, which subsequently folded;
- Quebec Nordiques (1979-1995): Relocated to become the Colorado Avalanche;
- Hamilton Tigers (1920-25): Players’ contracts were sold to the New York Americans;
- Winnipeg Jets (1979-1996): Relocated to become the Phoenix/Arizona Coyotes.
Conclusion
From the passionate fans of Vancouver Canucks to the high hopes of the Toronto Maple Leafs, every Canadian NHL team contributes to the fabric of their nation’s love for hockey. These seven teams, each with their unique histories and current challenges, paint a vibrant picture of Canadian hockey culture. Even the fallen heroes, the defunct Canadian NHL teams, add substance and depth to this narrative. Here’s to the continuing story of hockey in Canada, and may we see more exciting twists and turns in the coming years.