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Rivalries in hockey are something that carries on beyond the actual game. Some rivalries date back decades, with more playoff meetings, regional bragging rights, and memorable players. Some rivalries were born because new generations inherited from previous ones. These types of rivalries are still being talked about today.
Montreal Canadiens vs Toronto Maple Leafs
This rivalry dates back to before the founding of the NHL, with Montreal and Toronto as two of the league’s original six teams. Both teams have decades of history and have won Stanley Cup titles multiple times against each other or, in other cases, against other teams.
Boston Bruins vs Montreal Canadiens
This rivalry probably put this team on many lists for years to come. The teams have met in hundreds of NHL games since 1924 and have had multiple playoff matchups dating back decades. The rivalry became even more notorious as they faced off numerous times throughout different eras, amassing an amazing number of Stanley Cup victories combined.
Detroit Red Wings vs Colorado Avalanche
A rivalry from the 90s – 2000s that brought out the biggest stars in both organizations to battle head-to-head, and this rivalry brought two huge organizations in the 90s with teams such as Nick Lidstrom and Steve Yzerma.n vs. Colorado’s Sakic and Forsberg. Both have had incredible battles through multiple playoffs between each other for their big cups.
New York Rangers vs New York Islanders
It is one of the most famous local rivalries in the hockey world. The Islanders entered the league in 1972 as New York’s second NHL franchise, and met the older Rangers. From the town’s bragging rights to major playoffs that became classic duels from the past.
Edmonton Oilers vs Calgary Flames
The Battle of Alberta is known for being Canada’s intense hockey rivalry. The Flames did not start their brand until the mid-1980s, with all the stars, Wayne Gretzky and Mark Messier, having played for the Oilers. The series produced some of the most exciting games, particularly in their epic 1986 and 1991 play-off series.
Sources:
NHL — Maple Leafs, Canadiens set to renew NHL’s oldest playoff rivalry
NHL — Canadiens, Bruins rivalry history
NHL — Rangers-Islanders rivalry history
NHL — Battle of Alberta rivalry history
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