In the realm of hockey, the state of New York boasts a fervent NHL culture with a unique dual presence, rich history, and intense rivalries that have captured the hearts of passionate fans.
How many hockey teams does New York have?
There are a total of 3 NHL teams in New York. They are the following:
- New York Rangers
- New York Islanders
- Buffalo Sabres
Extinct New York NHL Teams:
- New York Americans
New York Rangers
The New York Rangers joined the NHL in 1926 alongside the Chicago Blackhawks, Toronto Maple Leafs, and Detroit Cougars.
Their home arena was – and still is – the Madison Square Garden – which they initially shared with the New York Americans.
The roaring 20s were an exciting time for the NHL with the league more than tripling in size from three teams to ten.
The league consisted of six American and four Canadian teams, and for the first time, “divisions” were introduced to the NHL.
The two divisions were the “American” and “Canadian”, with the Rangers playing in the former.
Rangers Won the Stanley Cup In Their Second Year
Many of the clubs that started in the 20s were forced to fold due to poor performance and financial struggles resulting from the Great Depression of 1929.
Luckily for the Rangers, they were able to find early success, which gained them a loyal fanbase and the financial stability to weather the storm during the Great Depression of the 30s.
The Rangers reached the Stanley Cup semi-finals in their first season and then went on to win the Cup the very next year.
Their first Stanley Cup is largely credited to legendary coach Lester Patrick.
The most notable event of the Rangers’ first Stanley Cup season was when 43-year-old coach, Lester Patrick stepped in for an injured Rangers goalie in game two of the finals – which they ended up winning.
Half-Century Drought
In their first fifteen years, the Rangers qualified for the playoffs fourteen times and won three Stanley Cups, in 1928, 1933, and 1940.
However, the glory days of the 20s through 40s were followed by a near-half-century drought.
The Rangers wouldn’t win the cup again until 1994 – this time with the help of all-star center, Mark Messier.
New York Islanders
In 1972, the New York Islanders joined the NHL as an expansion team, but what’s truly remarkable is that they didn’t just enter the league; they made an indelible mark.
In their third season, they reached the Stanley Cup Semifinals, defying expectations and setting the stage for their future glory.
The Dynasty Era
The Islanders have won a total of four Stanley Cups in their history, which they did back-to-back-to-back-to-back, starting in 1979.
This period from 1979 to 1983 became known as the “dynasty era” and has become permanently enshrined in Islanders’ history.
The team was led by some of the greatest NHL players ever, including Mike Bossy, Bryan Trottier, and Denis Potvin.
The Islanders’ “dynasty team” was part of the reason why Wayne Gretzky was unable to win a cup for the first four years of his career.
Longest Game 7 Ever
One of the most iconic moments in Islanders’ history was “The Easter Epic” in 1987.
The Islanders set the record for the longest game 7 win in NHL history. The game went to quadruple overtime (4OT) with the Islanders ultimately winning 3-2.
From their unexpected rise in the 1970s to their unforgettable Stanley Cup victories and enduring fan loyalty, the New York Islanders have a history filled with the highs and lows that define the heart of hockey. It’s a tale of passion, persistence, and the enduring spirit of Long Island hockey.
Buffalo Sabres
In 1970, the Buffalo Sabres were born as an expansion team in the NHL, and they made an immediate impact.
Their first draft pick was the legendary Gilbert Perreault, who would become the face of the franchise and a Hockey Hall of Famer.
The “French Connection” line of Perreault, Rick Martin, and Rene Robert was a force to be reckoned with during the 1970s. They not only brought success to Buffalo but also solidified their place as one of the greatest forward lines in NHL history.
1975 Stanley Cup Finals
Although the Sabres have never won a cup, they were able to make it to the Stanley Cup Finals in just their 5th year in the league (1975), ultimately losing to the Broadstreet Bullies.
One of the most iconic moments in Sabres history was the “Fog Game” in the 1975 Stanley Cup Semifinals against the Philadelphia Flyers.
A thick fog rolled in at the Buffalo Memorial Auditorium, creating surreal playing conditions. The Sabres emerged victorious in the game, and it remains a legendary tale of perseverance.
1999 Stanley Cup Finals
In 1999, the “No Goal” controversy broke hearts in Buffalo.
In the Stanley Cup Finals against the Dallas Stars, Brett Hull’s controversial triple-overtime goal ended the series, sparking a debate that still rages among hockey enthusiasts.
Hull scored the overtime goal with his left skate just inside the crease of the net.
There was no goalie interference on the play, however, Sabres fans cited the NHL rule book stating that any goal scored from outside the crease – while an opposing player stands inside the crease – would be disallowed.
However, the good-goal decision stood, and the Sabres ultimately lost.
Despite their challenges, the Sabres have a fiercely loyal fan base known as the “Sabres Nation.” They have shown unwavering support through thick and thin, creating a unique bond between the team and its community.
New York Americans
The New York Americans were the first New York NHL team ever.
They played their home games at the historic Madison Square Garden III, and while their existence was relatively brief, they left an indelible mark on the league.
One of the most intriguing aspects of the Americans’ history was their distinctive uniforms. They sported a patriotic red, white, and blue color scheme, a reflection of their “Americans” moniker, which celebrated their American heritage during a time when many NHL teams were Canadian.
The team also featured the shortest NHL player ever: Hall of Fame goaltender Roy “Shrimp” Worters, who stood at 5’3″.
The Americans had a loyal following and a committed fan base. They often attracted notable celebrities, and their games were a hotspot for social gatherings in New York City during the Roaring Twenties.
The team struggled with consistency and financial stability, ultimately folding in 1942, at the beginning of WW2. This ultimately led to the beginning of the “Original 6” Era.
Their pioneering spirit and unique presence in the early years of the NHL have left a lasting impact on the history of hockey in New York and the league as a whole.
Leave a Reply