By the Letters: Why the Letter “C” Helps Define NHL Greatness and Stanley Cup History
In the wide scope of NHL hockey, one letter can be perceived to hold more weight than others: letter "C." Whether it is stitched onto a jersey, represents a city’s franchise, or names a prestigious playoff trophy, letter "C" is a major part of hockey’s most iconic moments.
Captaincy: Stitched-on Leadership
The letter "C" on a jersey isn't just a patch; it's a badge of honour—worn by some of the most effective and well-respected leaders in the game. Take Mark Messier; arguably, the ultimate “Captain”. He remains the only player in NHL history to lead two different teams—as “Captain”—to a Stanley Cup championship: the Edmonton Oilers (1990) and the New York Rangers (1994). Then you have Jonathan Toews, whose stoic leadership helped guide the Chicago Blackhawks to three Stanley Cup championships in six years (2010, 2013, 2015). And of course, Sidney Crosby—a generational talent who captained the Pittsburgh Penguins to three Stanley Cup championships (2009, 2016, 2017).
Capitals: Washington’s Journey to Glory
The letter "C" also belongs to the Capitals. Since 1974, the Washington Capitals carried the weight of a franchise that could not seem to win the Stanley Cup—although they did get close (e.g., 1998 Stanley Cup Final). That is until 2018; when Alex Ovechkin hoisted the Stanley Cup, it felt like the entire hockey world exhaled with “The Great 8”. That image of "Ovi" screaming in pure, unbridled joy while lifting the Stanley Cup remains one of the most raw and human moments the game has ever seen.
Conn Smythe Trophy: The Playoff MVP
Then there’s the Conn Smythe Trophy. Named after the former coach, general manager, and owner-governor of the Toronto Maple Leafs, the Conn Smythe Trophy honours the most valuable player for his team in the four rounds of the Stanley Cup playoffs—as selected by the Professional Hockey Writers Association.
Cool Fact: Sam Bennett won the Conn Smythe Trophy in 2025 (15 goals; 22 points).
C: Defining the Champion
When you look at the history of the NHL, the letter “C” is clearly woven into the very fabric of the game. Whether it’s that well-respected patch on a “Captain’s” chest, the decades of grit shown by the Capitals, or the pure excellence required to win the Conn Smythe Trophy, letter “C” helps tell the story of what it takes to win. Ultimately, letter “C” represents the courage to lead a room, the commitment to survive a four-round playoff grind, and the class shown by the legends who have excelled on the ice throughout the entire Stanley Cup playoffs. In the NHL, letter “C” doesn't just start the word; it helps define “Champion”.