By the Letters: “O” Stands for the NHL’s "Original Six"
The NHL’s storied history is a sprawling narrative of evolution, but its soul remains anchored in that 25-year window referred to as the “Original Six” era. Between 1942 and the 1967 expansion, six franchises acted as the exclusive gatekeepers of NHL hockey. This stretch of time in the NHL didn't just solidify iconic rivalries; it helped build the league's cultural bedrock. Even with 32 NHL teams now, the “Original Six” remains the ultimate high-water mark for prestige and hockey tradition.
Here is a brief summary of the “Original Six” (1942-1967).
Montreal Canadiens: Undisputed royalty of the “Original Six” era, the Montreal Canadiens won ten Stanley Cup championships across those 25 seasons. The Canadiens built a dynasty during this era with legends such as Maurice Richard, Jean Beliveau, and Henri Richard.
Toronto Maple Leafs: A primary rival with Montreal, the Toronto Maple Leafs, owned the 1940s and the era's twilight, lifting the final Pre-Expansion Stanley Cup in 1967. The Maple Leafs are a permanent cornerstone of Canadian identity, defined by an intense, storied bond with a massive, forever-loyal fanbase.
Detroit Red Wings: Driven by the “Production Line” and the incomparable Gordie Howe, the Detroit Red Wings became the powerhouse of the early- to mid-1950s. The Red Wings turned into a true juggernaut, securing four Stanley Cups during “Mr. Hockey’s” prolific athletic prime.
Boston Bruins: Although the third-oldest active NHL team (1924), the Boston Bruins, did not win a Stanley Cup during the “Original Six” era (1942-1967), the franchise captured the Stanley Cup in 1941 and again in 1970 and 1972. Notably, as the “Original Six” era winded down, Bobby Orr entered the league and—as history has shown—helped revolutionize the sport.
Chicago Black Hawks: During the “Original Six” era, the Chicago Blackhawks are largely remembered for the legendary Stanley Cup championship in 1961. Led by Bobby Hull, Stan Mikita, and Glenn Hall, they reached the mountaintop by beating the Detroit Red Wings 4-2 in the 1961 Stanley Cup Final.
New York Rangers: Founded in 1926, the New York Rangers attained early success as coach Lester Patrick led the franchise to a Stanley Cup championship in 1928. While the New York Rangers endured a Stanley Cup championship drought throughout the “Original Six” era (1942-1967), the Rangers have remained a vital part of the NHL’s footprint and commercial growth.
Original Six: A Lasting Legacy
As the NHL’s “Original Six” era ended in 1967, Wayne Cashman was the last active player from the “Original Six”; retiring with the Boston Bruins in 1983. In the end, the NHL’s “Original Six” isn't just a list of six franchises; it is a primary portion of the original blueprint for what the NHL is all about today.