The National Hockey League comprises a total of 32 teams. Originating in 1917, this league has evolved into a global sports giant, consistently introducing new teams. Below is a current, comprehensive list of all NHL teams, meticulously arranged in alphabetical order.
A-Z Listing of NHL Teams in Order
1. Anaheim Ducks
The inception of the Anaheim Ducks dates back to 1993 when they were established under the name Mighty Ducks of Anaheim, an initiative led by none other than Disney.
Taking their place as either the 24th or 25th team to join the National Hockey League, this ambiguity arises from their simultaneous introduction with the Florida Panthers.
During their inaugural season, the Mighty Ducks secured a 20th-place finish within the league’s standings.
Notably, the Anaheim Ducks would go on to achieve their inaugural Stanley Cup victory during the playoffs of the 2006-2007 season.
| Metric | Count |
|---|---|
| Stanley Cup Wins | 1 |
| Conference Championships | 2 |
| Division Championships | 6 |
2. Arizona Coyotes
Once recognized as the Phoenix Coyotes, the Arizona Coyotes can trace their origins back to the Winnipeg Jets.
In the year 1996, the Winnipeg Jets underwent a transition, relocating to Phoenix and thereby giving rise to the birth of the Phoenix Coyotes.
During the inaugural season following their name change and relocation, the Coyotes impressively secured the 5th spot in the Western Conference standings and 11th in the league overall, a performance that earned them a place in the playoffs.
Interestingly, their first-round playoff opponents happened to be none other than the Mighty Ducks of Anaheim, who eventually triumphed in the series with a 4-3 outcome.
Throughout their history, the Arizona Coyotes have ventured into the conference finals on a solitary occasion. Presently, with concerning speculations surrounding the potential uncertainty of the franchise’s future, prospects of revisiting that level of success appear uncertain.
| Metric | Count |
|---|---|
| Division Championships | 1 |
3. Boston Bruins
The formidable Boston Bruins came into existence in 1924, when they were introduced to the league alongside the Montreal Maroons. At that point, the league comprised merely four teams: Ottawa Senators, Montreal Canadiens, Toronto St. Patricks, and Hamilton Tigers.
This makes them part of the original six teams that form an integral part of the league’s history.
Throughout their almost century-long existence, the Boston Bruins have achieved remarkable success, securing the Stanley Cup six times. Their most recent victory was in the year 2010.
| Metric | Count |
|---|---|
| Stanley Cup Wins | 6 |
| Conference Championships | 5 |
| Presidents’ Trophy | 3 |
| Division Championships | 26 |
4. Buffalo Sabres
Back in 1970, the Buffalo Sabres entered the league in tandem with the Vancouver Canucks. This expansion marked the league’s growth from 12 to 14 teams compared to the prior year.
Parallel to their contemporary counterparts, the early Buffalo Sabres didn’t exhibit significant prowess, concluding their season with a 24-39-15 record and a 10th place league ranking.
Despite making it to the conference championships on three occasions (1974-75, 1979-80, 1998-99), the Buffalo Sabres’ quest for a Stanley Cup triumph remains unfulfilled.
| Metric | Count |
|---|---|
| Conference Championships | 3 |
| Presidents’ Trophy | 1 |
| Division Championships | 6 |
5. Calgary Flames
Originating as the Atlanta Flames, the Calgary Flames find their home in Alberta, Canada.
Their affiliation with the NHL dates back to 1972, when they were introduced into the league concurrently with the New York Islanders, elevating the NHL’s team count to 16.
In their inaugural season, the 1972-1973 campaign, the Atlanta Flames concluded their performance ranking 12th among the 16 teams constituting the league.
Within a mere 8 years of their establishment as the Atlanta Flames, the team underwent a transformation, shifting to Calgary. This relocation was driven by dwindling attendance figures, prompting the sale and relocation of the franchise.
| Metric | Count |
|---|---|
| Stanley Cup Wins | 1 |
| Conference Championships | 3 |
| Presidents’ Trophy | 2 |
| Division Championships | 7 |
6. Carolina Hurricanes
The tale of the Carolina Hurricanes unfolds intriguingly. Originating as the New England Whalers in 1971, they entered the fray in the World Hockey Association (WHA).
Amidst the NHL-WHA merger in 1979, the franchise underwent a transformation, adopting the moniker Hartford Whalers.
The decisive shift occurred in 1997, relocating the Hartford Whalers to North Carolina, thereby shaping the contemporary identity of the Carolina Hurricanes.
In their inaugural season (1997-1998) as the Carolina Hurricanes, their performance landed them in the 17th position across the league standings, marked by a lackluster 33-41-8 record.
However, the narrative takes a triumphant turn as they clinched the Stanley Cup in 2005, etching their name in hockey history.
| Metric | Count |
|---|---|
| Stanley Cup Wins | 1 |
| Conference Championships | 2 |
| Division Championships | 4 |
7. Chicago Blackhawks
Part of the distinguished original six NHL teams, the Chicago Blackhawks were established in 1926, emerging as the NHL expanded from a mere 7 teams to a roster of 10.
In their debut NHL season, they secured a 6th-place finish within the league’s standings. While this might seem noteworthy, it’s important to note that there were only 10 teams in the league at that time.
Despite a somewhat modest start, the Blackhawks would subsequently carve their path to victory, clinching an impressive 6 Stanley Cup triumphs. Notably, three of these victories occurred in more recent seasons, namely 2009-2010, 2012-2013, and 2014-2015. This cumulative achievement of 6 cups aligns them with fellow original six team, the Boston Bruins.
| Metric | Count |
|---|---|
| Stanley Cup Wins | 6 |
| Conference Championships | 4 |
| Presidents’ Trophy | 2 |
| Division Championships | 16 |
8. Colorado Avalanche
Originating as the Quebec Nordiques, a WHA team, the Colorado Avalanche carries a distinctive lineage.
In a pivotal year, 1979 marked their entry into the NHL, facilitated by the amalgamation of the two leagues. Transitioning further, the Nordiques underwent a geographical shift to Denver, Colorado, leading to their rebirth as the Colorado Avalanche in 1995.
Remarkably, during their inaugural season in their new Denver home, the Avalanche emerged as formidable contenders, securing the 2nd position in the league standings and ultimately clinching the coveted Stanley Cup.
For local fans, it must have been an exhilarating experience to witness their newly embraced hometown team conquer the championship in the very same year of its inception.
| Metric | Count |
|---|---|
| Stanley Cup Wins | 2 |
| Conference Championships | 2 |
| Presidents’ Trophy | 3 |
| Division Championships | 10 |
9. Columbus Blue Jackets
Marking their entry into the league in the year 2000 alongside the Minnesota Wild, as part of the NHL’s expansion to encompass 30 teams, the Columbus Blue Jackets represent a comparatively newer franchise.
Inaugurating their journey as an organization, the Blue Jackets secured a 23rd-place finish within the league during their first season.
It took a span of nine years after their incorporation into the NHL for the Blue Jackets to taste the playoffs. Unfortunately, their debut appearance resulted in a swift 4-0 elimination at the hands of the Detroit Red Wings.
To this day, the Columbus Blue Jackets have managed to progress beyond the first round of the playoffs only once, notably achieving this milestone during the 2018-19 season.
10. Dallas Stars
Established within the league in 1967, the Stars possess a longstanding history. However, their identity has not always been associated with Dallas.
Originating as the Minnesota North Stars, their journey took a transformative turn in the 1993-94 season when they relocated to Dallas.
| Metric | Count |
|---|---|
| Stanley Cup Wins | 1 |
| Conference Championships | 3 |
| Presidents’ Trophy | 2 |
| Division Championships | 8 |
11. Detroit Red Wings
Part of the Original Six, the Detroit Red Wings made their debut in the league in 1926 under the name “Detroit Cougars.” Subsequently, they transitioned to the name “Detroit Falcons” in 1930, before ultimately embracing their enduring identity as the “Detroit Red Wings” in 1932.
In the realm of triumphant franchises, the Red Wings shine remarkably. They claim the distinction of securing the most Stanley Cup victories among American teams. Their remarkable 11 Stanley Cup wins position them in third place all-time, trailing only the Toronto Maple Leafs and the Montreal Canadiens in this illustrious category.
| Metric | Count |
|---|---|
| Stanley Cup Wins | 11 |
| Conference Championships | 6 |
| Presidents’ Trophy | 6 |
| Division Championships | 19 |
12. Edmonton Oilers
The Evolution of the Edmonton Oilers commenced when the franchise initially took to the ice as the “Alberta Oilers” in 1972, marking their founding within the World Hockey Association (WHA). A year later, in 1973, the transformation into the “Edmonton Oilers” that we recognize today was realized.
A pivotal juncture emerged in 1979, as the Edmonton Oilers seamlessly transitioned into the NHL through a merger with the WHA.
During the golden era spanning from 1983 to 1989, the Oilers basked in an abundance of triumphs, securing five coveted Stanley Cups. Remarkably, four of these momentous victories bore the hallmark of the legendary Wayne Gretzky’s exceptional contributions.
While the Oilers have veered from their illustrious past, the emergence of superstar Connor McDavid as a guiding force infuses renewed promise. As they chart their course forward, there’s a glimmer of potential for the Oilers to once again grace the pinnacle of the NHL.
| Metric | Count |
|---|---|
| Stanley Cup Wins | 5 |
| Conference Championships | 7 |
| Presidents’ Trophy | 2 |
| Division Championships | 7 |
13. Florida Panthers
Established in 1993, the Florida Panthers entered the NHL scene in tandem with the Mighty Ducks of Anaheim, becoming the 25th and 26th teams to join the league’s ranks.
Initially, the Panthers earned the distinction of being the expansion team with the most notable inaugural season accomplishments. However, this distinction later passed to the Vegas Golden Knights.
In the course of their 28-year journey, the Florida Panthers achieved a singular appearance in the Stanley Cup finals, occurring in 1996. Unfortunately, their pursuit concluded with a loss to the Colorado Avalanche.
| Metric | Count |
|---|---|
| Conference Championships | 1 |
| Division Championships | 2 |
14. Los Angeles Kings
The Los Angeles Kings marked their entry into the NHL during the league’s expansion in 1967, a pivotal moment when the number of teams surged from six to twelve. This expansion saw them join forces with the following teams:
- Minnesota North Stars;
- Oakland Seals;
- Philadelphia Flyers;
- Pittsburgh Penguins;
- St. Louis Blues.
In the year 1993, under the leadership of the iconic Wayne Gretzky, the Kings clinched their maiden appearance in the Stanley Cup Finals. Subsequent years ushered in a period of turbulence, both on and off the ice, for the team.
However, perseverance bore fruit as the Kings emerged victorious many years later, securing two coveted Stanley Cups in the 2011-12 and 2013-14 seasons, etching their names into the annals of NHL history.
| Metric | Count |
|---|---|
| Stanley Cup Wins | 2 |
| Conference Championships | 3 |
| Division Championships | 1 |
15. Minnesota Wild
The Wild hold the distinction of being the NHL’s second entrant from Minnesota, following in the footsteps of the North Stars, who later transplanted to Dallas in 1993.
Minnesota embarked on their second NHL journey in 1997, materializing as a hockey entity once again. However, their formal debut on the ice transpired in the 2000-01 season, resulting in a 25th-place finish within the league, as evidenced by a record of 25-39-18.
The taste of triumph came to the Wild in 2008 when they clinched victory in the Northwest Division. Regrettably, this newfound momentum wavered, and they succumbed to the Colorado Avalanche in the first round of the playoffs, concluding the series with a four-game-to-two outcome.
| Metric | Count |
|---|---|
| Division Championships | 1 |
16. Montreal Canadiens
Arguably the most storied franchise within the NHL, the Montreal Canadiens’ roots trace back to their establishment in 1909, when they took the ice as part of the National Hockey Association. This historical lineage eventually evolved into the National Hockey League in 1917.
Their enduring legacy has endured across the years, as they proudly hold the distinction of being the longest-operating ice hockey team globally.
Over the span of their remarkable century-plus existence, the Canadiens have etched their name in history by clinching the most coveted prize – the Stanley Cup, on 24 occasions. Their most recent triumph occurred during the 1992-1993 season, solidifying their legacy of excellence.
| Metric | Count |
|---|---|
| Stanley Cup Wins | 24 |
| Conference Championships | 8 |
| Division Championships | 24 |
17. Nashville Predators
The year 1998 witnessed the introduction of the Nashville Predators to the National Hockey League, marking their position as the league’s 27th franchise. However, their inaugural season did not transpire with resounding success, culminating in a modest 24th place within the league standings, backed by a 28-47-7 record.
In the journey that followed their establishment, the Predators have not yet attained the pinnacle of a Stanley Cup victory. Nevertheless, their journey has been punctuated by noteworthy achievements, including:
| Metric | Count |
|---|---|
| Conference Championships | 1 |
| Presidents’ Trophy | 1 |
| Division Championships | 2 |
18. New Jersey Devils
The New Jersey Devils, a part of the quartet of NHL teams hailing from New York, embody a dynamic history that transcends their current geographical connection.
Their journey commenced as the Kansas City Scouts in 1974. Merely two years later, in 1976, this franchise underwent swift relocation, shifting from Kansas to Denver, thus donning the mantle of the Colorado Rockies.
In a span of six years since their Colorado incarnation, the franchise embarked on yet another transition, finding its ultimate abode in New Jersey in 1982. This final move solidified their identity as the New Jersey Devils, completing a captivating narrative of evolution and transformation.
| Metric | Count |
|---|---|
| Stanley Cup Wins | 3 |
| Conference Championships | 5 |
| Division Championships | 9 |
19. New York Islanders
Emerging in 1972, the inception of the New York Islanders was spurred by the NHL’s imperative to preempt the WHA’s establishment of a team at the newly constructed Nassau Coliseum.
Despite their humble beginnings, the Islanders confronted a challenging inaugural season that led to them finishing at the league’s bottom with a 12-60-6 record.
Yet, the narrative took a remarkable turn as the franchise embarked on a journey toward triumph. A dynasty was forged, marked by the Islanders’ triumphant grasp of four consecutive Stanley Cups from 1979 to 1983, thus etching their name indelibly in NHL history.
| Metric | Count |
|---|---|
| Stanley Cup Wins | 4 |
| Conference Championships | 6 |
| Division Championships | 6 |
20. New York Rangers
Yet another representative from the quartet of NHL teams in the New York region, the New York Rangers have held a position within the NHL’s ranks since 1926, solidifying their stature as a member of the iconic “Original Six.”
Notably, the New York Rangers clinched a remarkable milestone by becoming the first American team in NHL history to capture the Stanley Cup. This remarkable feat was accomplished in 1928, a mere two years after their inaugural entry into the league.
| Metric | Count |
|---|---|
| Stanley Cup Wins | 4 |
| Conference Championships | 2 |
| Presidents’ Trophy | 3 |
| Division Championships | 7 |
21. Ottawa Senators
It may come as a surprise, but the Ottawa Senators have inhabited the NHL franchise landscape on two distinct occasions, each with no interconnection.
The initial Ottawa Senators were established back in 1883 and achieved a remarkable feat by securing a remarkable 11 Stanley Cups during their NHL tenure from 1917 to 1934.
Contrastingly, the contemporary Ottawa Senators, as we know them today, emerged in 1992 under the guidance of Bruce Firestone. This iteration bears no affiliation with their historical predecessors, forming a distinct entity within the league’s annals.
| Metric | Count |
|---|---|
| Conference Championships | 1 |
| Presidents’ Trophy | 1 |
| Division Championships | 4 |
22. Philadelphia Flyers
The Philadelphia Flyers constitute the second NHL team to originate from Philadelphia.
In 1930, the financially challenged Pittsburgh Pirates made a temporary relocation to Philadelphia for a solitary season, adopting the moniker “Philadelphia Quakers.” This brief episode in NHL history remains notable for the record of the fewest games won in a single NHL season, an accomplishment marked by their 4–36–4 record.
Today, the indelible association people hold with Philadelphia pertains to the Flyers, a team often renowned as the “Broad Street Bullies” due to their tenacious playing style. This distinction is coupled with their accomplishment of clinching two Stanley Cups between the years 1970 and 1980.
| Metric | Count |
|---|---|
| Stanley Cup Wins | 2 |
| Conference Championships | 8 |
| Division Championships | 16 |
23. Pittsburgh Penguins
Emerging as part of the NHL’s expansion in 1967, the Penguins found their place in the league’s evolving landscape.
At present, this franchise shares the distinction of having secured the most Stanley Cup victories among teams outside the original six.
Distinguished by its remarkable history, this legendary team has showcased a remarkable lineup of Hall of Fame players over the years. Noteworthy figures such as Mario Lemieux, Ron Francis, Paul Coffey, Larry Murphy, Mark Recchi, Joe Mullen, Bryan Trottier, and numerous others have graced its ranks.
Undoubtedly, the day will come when Sidney Crosby adds his illustrious name to this esteemed roster.
| Metric | Count |
|---|---|
| Stanley Cup Wins | 5 |
| Conference Championships | 6 |
| Presidents’ Trophy | 1 |
| Division Championships | 9 |
24. San Jose Sharks
San Jose Sharks, the 24th entry in the NHL, entered the league’s ranks in 1991, augmenting the team tally from 21 to 22. During their inaugural season, the Sharks endured a challenging 17-58-5 record, culminating in the league’s bottom position.
A watershed moment for this franchise unfolded in 2016 when they advanced to the Stanley Cup finals. Regrettably, their pursuit of glory was thwarted by the Pittsburgh Penguins in this memorable showdown.
| Metric | Count |
|---|---|
| Conference Championships | 1 |
| Presidents’ Trophy | 1 |
| Division Championships | 6 |
25. Seattle Kraken
In 2018, the NHL granted approval to a Seattle-based team, marking the league’s 32nd expansion in its storied history.
Led by the Seattle Hockey Partners, this team ultimately embraced the moniker “Kraken.”
Anticipation is high as Seattle readies to take the ice in the upcoming 2021-2022 NHL season, marking their inaugural campaign.
26. St. Louis Blues
Emerging during the 1967 expansion of the National Hockey League, the Blues are yet another franchise to come to life during this period. Moreover, the Blues have clinched a single Stanley Cup title and reached the Finals on four occasions.
Remarkably, three of their Stanley Cup Final appearances transpired in their initial three seasons from 1967 to 1970; however, they encountered defeat in all three series without securing a victory.
Nonetheless, the Blues would ultimately break their championship drought, triumphing in the 2018-19 season to capture the coveted Stanley Cup.
| Metric | Count |
|---|---|
| Stanley Cup Wins | 1 |
| Conference Championships | 1 |
| Presidents’ Trophy | 1 |
| Division Championships | 10 |
27. Tampa Bay Lightning
Introduced to the league in 1990 and taking to the NHL ice for the first time in 1992, the Tampa Bay Lightning did not begin as the dominant force they are recognized as today. Surprisingly, they secured a playoff spot merely once during their initial decade in existence.
Nonetheless, their fortunes swiftly shifted in the early 2000s, culminating in the Lightning’s triumphant moment in 2004 as they clinched their inaugural Stanley Cup championship.
In the present day, the Tampa Bay Lightning have solidified their status as back-to-back Stanley Cup winners, firmly establishing themselves as the premier team in the league.
| Metric | Count |
|---|---|
| Stanley Cup Wins | 3 |
| Conference Championships | 3 |
| Presidents’ Trophy | 1 |
| Division Championships | 4 |
28. Toronto Maple Leafs
Established in 1917, the Toronto Maple Leafs embarked on their journey with a different moniker. Initially christened the “Toronto Arenas,” their name shifted to the “Toronto St. Patricks” in 1919.
However, a pivotal transformation occurred in 1927 when the team came under the ownership of none other than Conn Smythe, leading to the renaming that has become synonymous with them today: the Toronto Maple Leafs.
This storied franchise boasts an extensive history of achievements, including the distinction of possessing the second-highest number of Stanley Cup victories among NHL teams.
Regrettably, for their loyal fans, the bulk of these triumphs transpired before their time. The team’s last Stanley Cup win dates back to 1967, leaving them in pursuit of reclaiming that coveted title.
| Metric | Count |
|---|---|
| Stanley Cup Wins | 13 |
| Division Championships | 6 |
29. Vancouver Canucks
In 1970, the Vancouver Canucks, along with the Buffalo Sabres, were integrated into the National Hockey League, increasing the league’s roster from 12 to 14 teams.
Despite their participation in the Stanley Cup finals on three separate occasions since their induction, the Vancouver Canucks have been unable to secure the coveted victory, leaving them without a single Stanley Cup championship to their name.
| Metric | Count |
|---|---|
| Conference Championships | 3 |
| Presidents’ Trophy | 2 |
| Division Championships | 10 |
30. Vegas Golden Knights
After a 16-year hiatus since the NHL’s prior expansion, an announcement in 2016 heralded the addition of a new team based in Las Vegas to the league. This team, now known as the Vegas Golden Knights, became the 31st franchise in the NHL.
Vegas made a remarkable debut, surpassing expectations by a wide margin. In their inaugural season, they achieved the remarkable feat of winning the Pacific Division, securing the 5th spot in the NHL rankings. Additionally, they advanced to the Stanley Cup finals, although they ultimately faced defeat with a 4-1 series loss to the Washington Capitals.
Since that impressive start, the Golden Knights have consistently clinched playoff berths every season, and they have once again reached the conference finals.
| Metric | Count |
|---|---|
| Conference Championships | 1 |
| Division Championships | 2 |
31. Washington Capitals
Established in 1974 as part of the NHL’s expansion wave, the Washington Capitals proudly represent the nation’s capital city.
In a span of over 40 years in the league, the Capitals have secured a solitary Stanley Cup victory. This achievement was realized during the 2017-2018 season, marking a significant milestone in their history.
| Metric | Count |
|---|---|
| Stanley Cup Wins | 1 |
| Conference Championships | 2 |
| Presidents’ Trophy | 3 |
| Division Championships | 13 |
32. Winnipeg Jets
The narrative of the Winnipeg Jets is a tapestry of intricacies and evolution.
Originally part of the World Hockey Association’s foundation, the first Winnipeg Jets franchise eventually merged into the National Hockey League’s ranks.
In 1996, the team embarked on a relocation journey to Phoenix, adopting the identity of the Phoenix Coyotes, signifying the conclusion of the original Winnipeg Jets franchise.
Yet, the tale continued as a fresh chapter unfurled in 2011 with the rebirth of the Winnipeg Jets franchise, emerging from the ashes of the relocated Atlanta Thrashers.
| Metric | Count |
|---|---|
| Division Championships | 1 |
Conclusion
The National Hockey League (NHL) is a vibrant tapestry of teams, each with its unique history, triumphs, and challenges. As we’ve journeyed through this alphabetical exploration of NHL franchises, we’ve witnessed the evolution of the sport, the rise and fall of dynasties, and the unwavering passion of fans across North America.