The three greatest teams in NHL history can be measured in several ways — Stanley Cup championships, historical legacy, legendary players, or overall impact on the game. However, based on a combination of success (titles), longevity, and influence, these are widely considered the top three franchises in NHL history:
1. Montreal Canadiens
- 🏆 Stanley Cups: 24 (all-time record)
- 📍 Founded: 1909 (one of the original teams, predating the NHL)
- 🔥 Golden era: 1950s, 1960s, and 1970s
- 👑 Legendary players: Maurice “Rocket” Richard, Jean Béliveau, Guy Lafleur, Patrick Roy
- 📈 Impact: The most successful team in NHL history. A symbol of hockey in Canada and a major force in popularizing the sport.
2. Toronto Maple Leafs
- 🏆 Stanley Cups: 13 (second-most in history)
- 📍 Founded: 1917
- 🔥 Golden era: 1940s and 1960s
- 👑 Legendary players: Dave Keon, Johnny Bower, Darryl Sittler, Mats Sundin
- 📈 Impact: Despite a long title drought since 1967, the Leafs remain one of the most popular and valuable franchises in the league.
3. Detroit Red Wings
- 🏆 Stanley Cups: 11 (most among U.S.-based teams)
- 📍 Founded: 1926
- 🔥 Golden era: 1950s and 1997–2008
- 👑 Legendary players: Gordie Howe, Steve Yzerman, Nicklas Lidström, Pavel Datsyuk
- 📈 Impact: A giant of the “Original Six” with a massive legacy in the U.S., especially during their dominant run in the late ’90s and early 2000s.
