Hockey fans often look back at a golden era when the National Hockey League (NHL) revolved around just six teams, a group known famously as the “Original Six.” These six franchises—Boston Bruins, Chicago Blackhawks, Detroit Red Wings, Montreal Canadiens, New York Rangers, and Toronto Maple Leafs—dominated the league from 1942 to 1967, laying the foundation for what the NHL would become.
But their impact goes far beyond the rinks and Stanley Cup victories. Their histories are rich, intertwined with tradition, culture, and a deep sense of competition.
Let’s take a journey through the legendary era of the Original Six NHL teams.
The History of the Original Six: How It All Began
Hockey has been deeply embedded in North American culture since the early 20th century. The term “Original Six,” though, is somewhat misleading because these teams were not the first in the NHL, nor did they form the initial composition of the league.
The NHL was founded in 1917, with teams like the Montreal Canadiens and the Toronto Maple Leafs among its early members.
By 1926, however, the six teams that would come to be known as the Original Six were all part of the league. These teams remained the league’s only franchises from 1942, when World War II and financial hardships led to other teams folding, until the NHL’s expansion in 1967.
This 25-year period saw the rise of some of hockey’s greatest rivalries, most memorable moments, and iconic players.
Boston Bruins: America’s First NHL Franchise
The Boston Bruins were founded in 1924, making them the first American team in the NHL. Under the ownership of Charles Adams, the Bruins immediately set out to create a powerhouse in the league. By 1929, just five years after their formation, the Bruins won their first Stanley Cup.
Known for their physical, grinding style of play, the Bruins have developed one of the most passionate fan bases in hockey. Legends like Bobby Orr, who revolutionized the position of defenseman, and Ray Bourque, another Hall of Famer, defined eras of Bruins dominance. Orr, in particular, became a symbol of excellence, and his iconic goal in the 1970 Stanley Cup Final remains one of the most famous moments in NHL history.
Chicago Blackhawks: The Grit and Grind of the Windy City
Founded in 1926, the Chicago Blackhawks quickly gained a reputation for hard-nosed hockey. Chicago would win its first Stanley Cup in 1934, led by greats like goaltender Charlie Gardiner.
However, the Blackhawks’ early years were marked by inconsistency. It wasn’t until the 1960s that they truly hit their stride, led by legends like Bobby Hull and Stan Mikita.
The franchise experienced a long Stanley Cup drought after winning its third championship in 1961, but its loyal fan base continued to support the team through thick and thin.
The Blackhawks’ revival in the 2000s, with stars like Jonathan Toews and Patrick Kane, brought three Stanley Cups in six seasons (2010, 2013, and 2015), cementing Chicago’s place among the elite franchises in NHL history.
Detroit Red Wings: Hockeytown’s Storied Tradition
Also founded in 1926, the Detroit Red Wings became one of the most successful teams of the Original Six era. Originally named the Detroit Cougars and then the Falcons, the franchise changed to the Red Wings in 1932 under the ownership of James Norris.
The Red Wings have been synonymous with success, winning 11 Stanley Cups—the most of any U.S.-based NHL team.
Much of their early success can be attributed to the legendary “Production Line” featuring Gordie Howe, Ted Lindsay, and Sid Abel. Howe, often referred to as “Mr. Hockey,” is widely considered one of the greatest players of all time. His skill, toughness, and longevity have left an indelible mark on the sport.
Detroit’s dominance continued well into the modern era, with the Red Wings consistently fielding competitive teams throughout the 1990s and early 2000s. Players like Steve Yzerman, Sergei Fedorov, and Nicklas Lidstrom helped the team capture four more Stanley Cups between 1997 and 2008, earning the city of Detroit the nickname “Hockeytown.”
Montreal Canadiens: The Pinnacle of NHL Excellence
Of all the Original Six teams, the Montreal Canadiens boast the richest history and the most Stanley Cup victories, with an incredible 24 championships. Founded in 1909, the Canadiens predate the NHL itself, joining the league as a charter member in 1917. Their dominance began in the 1940s and stretched well into the 1970s, making them the most successful franchise in NHL history.
The Canadiens’ success is largely due to their ability to attract and develop world-class talent. Maurice “Rocket” Richard, the first player to score 50 goals in a season, became a cultural icon in Quebec, while Jean Béliveau and Guy Lafleur became household names across Canada. Montreal’s dynasty in the 1950s, where they won five consecutive Stanley Cups from 1956 to 1960, is a record that still stands today.
Playing in the historic Montreal Forum, the Canadiens not only embodied success on the ice but also became a symbol of pride for French-speaking Canadians. Their intense rivalry with the Toronto Maple Leafs fueled some of the NHL’s most memorable moments, and their commitment to excellence has made them the standard by which other franchises are judged.
New York Rangers: Broadway’s Hockey Team
The New York Rangers brought professional hockey to the heart of Manhattan when they were founded in 1926. As one of the NHL’s first American teams, the Rangers quickly found success, winning their first Stanley Cup in 1928. Known for their flashy, big-market appeal, the Rangers earned the nickname “The Broadway Blueshirts.”
The Rangers’ early years were filled with ups and downs, with long stretches of postseason futility. However, their devoted fan base remained loyal, eagerly awaiting another championship. In 1994, their patience was rewarded when captain Mark Messier led the Rangers to their first Stanley Cup in 54 years. This victory cemented Messier’s status as one of the game’s greatest leaders and gave New York its long-awaited hockey glory.
Toronto Maple Leafs: A Proud but Star-Crossed Franchise
The Toronto Maple Leafs are one of the NHL’s most storied franchises, with a history dating back to the league’s founding in 1917.
The team’s early success under Conn Smythe set the tone for decades of competitive play. By 1967, the Maple Leafs had captured 13 Stanley Cups, the second-most in NHL history, but their championship drought since then has been well-documented.
Despite this, the Maple Leafs have remained one of the most popular and valuable franchises in professional sports. Iconic players like Dave Keon, Darryl Sittler, and Mats Sundin became fan favorites, while the team’s home arena, Maple Leaf Gardens (and now Scotiabank Arena), became a sacred ground for hockey lovers.
The Leafs’ fierce rivalry with the Montreal Canadiens remains one of the most intense in the sport, with every game between the two teams carrying historical and cultural significance.
The 1967 Expansion: The End of an Era
The 1967 NHL expansion marked the end of the Original Six era as the league doubled in size, adding six new teams: the Los Angeles Kings, Minnesota North Stars, Philadelphia Flyers, Pittsburgh Penguins, St. Louis Blues, and Oakland Seals.
This expansion changed the landscape of the NHL forever, increasing competition and helping the sport grow across North America.
The Original Six teams, though, remained cornerstones of the league. Their traditions, rivalries, and fan bases thrived, even as new teams emerged.
Today, these six franchises are synonymous with the NHL’s most prestigious history, and their legacy continues to shape the league in the modern era.
FAQs
Why are they called the “Original Six” if they weren’t the first teams in the NHL?
The term “Original Six” refers to the six teams that formed the core of the NHL from 1942 to 1967, not necessarily the first teams in the league. They were the oldest teams still active by the time the league expanded.
Which team has won the most Stanley Cups?
The Montreal Canadiens have the most Stanley Cup victories, with 24 championships.
When did the Original Six era end?
The Original Six era ended in 1967, when the NHL expanded to include six new franchises.
Who are some of the most famous players from the Original Six teams?
Legends like Bobby Orr (Bruins), Gordie Howe (Red Wings), Maurice Richard (Canadiens), Mark Messier (Rangers), and Bobby Hull (Blackhawks) are just a few of the iconic players from the Original Six teams.
Which team has gone the longest without winning a Stanley Cup?
The Toronto Maple Leafs hold the unfortunate distinction of having the longest Stanley Cup drought among the Original Six teams, with their last championship coming in 1967.
What made the Original Six era special?
The Original Six era is remembered for its intense rivalries, legendary players, and the close-knit nature of the league. It laid the groundwork for the modern NHL and fostered some of the sport’s most memorable moments.
The Original Six teams represent more than just franchises; they embody the heart and soul of hockey. Their legacies live on through their rich histories, celebrated players, and devoted fan bases.
Even in today’s era of expansion and modernization, these six teams stand as a reminder of the NHL’s glorious past and its enduring appeal.