The top 10 Greatest Teams in NHL History

By Jayson Panganiban December 12, 2023 21:11

Photo by Kamil Krzaczynski/Imagn Images

When it comes to the National Hockey League (NHL), there have been numerous teams that have left a lasting impact on the sport. These teams have showcased exceptional skill, teamwork, and dominance throughout their respective eras. In this article, we will explore the top 10 greatest teams in NHL history, highlighting their achievements, players, and contributions to the game.

1. Montreal Canadiens (1955-1960)

The Montreal Canadiens of the late 1950s were a powerhouse, winning five consecutive Stanley Cups from 1956 to 1960. Led by legendary coach Toe Blake and featuring stars like Maurice Richard, Jean Beliveau, and Jacques Plante, this team was nearly unstoppable. Their dominance during this period solidified them as one of the greatest teams in NHL history.

2. Edmonton Oilers (1983-1988)

The Edmonton Oilers of the 1980s were an offensive juggernaut, thanks to the dynamic duo of Wayne Gretzky and Mark Messier. With a supporting cast that included Jari Kurri, Paul Coffey, and Grant Fuhr, the Oilers won five Stanley Cups between 1984 and 1988. Their high-scoring style of play revolutionized the game and left a lasting impact on future generations.

3. Detroit Red Wings (1996-2002)

The Detroit Red Wings of the late 1990s and early 2000s were a dominant force in the NHL. Coached by Scotty Bowman and led by captain Steve Yzerman, the Red Wings won four Stanley Cups during this period. Their disciplined play, strong defensive core, and talented forwards like Sergei Fedorov and Brendan Shanahan made them a formidable team.

4. New York Islanders (1979-1983)

The New York Islanders of the early 1980s were a dynasty in their own right, winning four consecutive Stanley Cups from 1980 to 1983. Coached by Al Arbour and led by captain Denis Potvin, the Islanders played a fast-paced, physical style of hockey that was difficult for opponents to handle. With a roster that included Mike Bossy, Bryan Trottier, and Billy Smith, they were a force to be reckoned with.

5. Chicago Blackhawks (2010, 2013, 2015)

The Chicago Blackhawks of the 2010s were a modern-day dynasty. Led by coach Joel Quenneville and featuring stars like Jonathan Toews, Patrick Kane, and Duncan Keith, the Blackhawks won three Stanley Cups in six years. Their depth, skill, and ability to perform under pressure made them one of the greatest teams of their era.

6. Boston Bruins (1970, 1972)

The Boston Bruins of the early 1970s were a force to be reckoned with. Coached by Harry Sinden and led by Bobby Orr, the Bruins won two Stanley Cups during this period. Orr's skill and dominance revolutionized the game, and his partnership with Phil Esposito made the Bruins a formidable team on both ends of the ice.

7. Pittsburgh Penguins (1991, 1992)

The Pittsburgh Penguins of the early 1990s were a star-studded team that won back-to-back Stanley Cups in 1991 and 1992. Led by Mario Lemieux and Jaromir Jagr, the Penguins showcased an explosive offense that was difficult to contain. Their success during this period solidified them as one of the greatest teams in NHL history.

8. Toronto Maple Leafs (1962, 1963)

The Toronto Maple Leafs of the early 1960s were a dominant team that won back-to-back Stanley Cups in 1962 and 1963. Coached by Punch Imlach and led by captain George Armstrong, the Leafs were known for their disciplined play and strong defensive core. Their success during this period cemented their place among the greatest teams in NHL history.

9. Colorado Avalanche (1996, 2001)

The Colorado Avalanche of the late 1990s and early 2000s were a powerhouse team that won two Stanley Cups during this period. Coached by Bob Hartley and led by stars like Joe Sakic, Peter Forsberg, and Patrick Roy, the Avalanche were known for their offensive firepower and strong goaltending. Their success during this time solidified them as one of the greatest teams of their era.

10. Philadelphia Flyers (1974, 1975)

The Philadelphia Flyers of the mid-1970s were a tough, physical team that won back-to-back Stanley Cups in 1974 and 1975. Coached by Fred Shero and led by captain Bobby Clarke, the Flyers were known for their hard-hitting style of play and strong defensive core. Their success during this period established them as one of the greatest teams in NHL history.

The NHL has seen many great teams throughout its history. From the Montreal Canadiens of the 1950s to the Chicago Blackhawks of the 2010s, these teams have left a lasting impact on the sport and have become legends in their own right. Their achievements, players, and contributions to the game have solidified their place as the top 10 greatest teams in NHL history.