Hockey Reference Blog

Stanley Cup: Top 10 Final Games of All Time

Posted by Ross Waataja on April 23, 2025

Few traditions in sports can match the tension and excitement of the Stanley Cup Final. Many fans consider these matchups among the best stanley cup finals of all time, and for good reason. The heartbreak, the euphoria, and the moments that define entire careers all converge in these epic showdowns. Below are ten of the best stanley cup finals ranked by their lasting impact and unforgettable drama—representing the pinnacle of playoff hockey. For those who cherish the best stanley cup finals, these games are timeless classics.

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Top 20 NHL Left Wings of All Time

Posted by Ross Waataja on April 22, 2025

When it comes to generating offense and setting the tempo, few positions impact the flow of play quite like a left wing. Renowned for both skill and tenacity, these players provide essential support at both ends of the rink. Below is an unnumbered list of 20 iconic NHL left wingers, arranged alphabetically by last name, each one contributing to the rich heritage of the sport.

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Top 20 NHL Centers of All Time

Posted by Ross Waataja on February 28, 2025

Centermen have long been recognized as the engine of a hockey team, orchestrating offensive rushes and anchoring the defensive zone. From puck distribution to faceoff prowess, these leaders drive their squads toward success. If you’re searching for the top 20 centers of all time, we’ve gathered them here in alphabetical order by last name—a lineup that frequently appears near the top of NHL center rankings.

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50 Best NHL Players of All Time

Posted by Ross Waataja on February 27, 2025

Throughout the illustrious history of the National Hockey League, fans and experts alike have debated the best hockey players of all time. The following unnumbered list, arranged in alphabetical order by last name, brings together 50 individuals often hailed as part of the greatest hockey players of all time. While conversations frequently spotlight the best hockey players right now, these legends continue to shape hockey’s narrative. Here, we celebrate some of the top NHL players ever to grace the ice.

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Conn Smythe Trophy Winners: The Complete List

Posted by Ross Waataja on February 7, 2025

The Conn Smythe Trophy represents the ultimate recognition of playoff excellence in the NHL, awarded to the most valuable player throughout the Stanley Cup playoffs. Since its introduction in 1965, the trophy has honored the extraordinary performances that define hockey’s most intense and grueling competition. From Jean Beliveau’s inaugural win to Connor McDavid’s recent triumph, each Conn Smythe winner exemplifies the resilience, skill, and leadership required to excel when the stakes are highest. Through dominant goaltending performances, defensive masterclasses, and offensive explosions, these players have etched their names into Stanley Cup lore.

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NHL Top 20 Defensemen Rankings

Posted by Ross Waataja on January 31, 2025

In ice hockey’s dynamic and physically demanding game, defensemen serve as the backbone of a team’s success, balancing defensive responsibility with offensive contributions. Positioned on the blue line, these players are tasked with protecting their own zone, blocking shots, and initiating breakouts, while also contributing to scoring with precise shots and playmaking ability. These NHL defensemen rankings will celebrate the greatest defensemen in NHL history, highlighting their remarkable achievements, versatility, and impact on the sport. Players are listed in alphabetical order.

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NHL Presidents Trophy: The Complete List

Posted by Ross Waataja on January 30, 2025

The Presidents’ Trophy is awarded annually to the NHL team that finishes the regular season with the most points. Since its inception in 1986, the award has celebrated the excellence of teams that demonstrate consistency, skill, and dominance throughout the grueling NHL season. From record-breaking performances to remarkable team efforts, the Presidents’ Trophy winners have etched their names in history as the league’s top regular-season teams.

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Stanley Cup Winners: The Complete List

Posted by Ross Waataja on January 29, 2025

The Stanley Cup is the ultimate prize in professional hockey, a symbol of triumph, endurance, and excellence that every NHL team dreams of hoisting. First awarded in 1893, it has a storied history filled with unforgettable moments, legendary players, and dramatic battles on the ice. From dynasties that dominated for decades to underdog teams that defied the odds, each championship season tells a unique story of perseverance and glory. In this post, we’ll dive into the history of the Stanley Cup, with a list of Stanley Cup Champions by year during the NHL era (1927-present) and celebrating the legacy of hockey’s greatest winners.

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NHL Hart Memorial Trophy Winners Complete List

Posted by Ross Waataja on December 31, 2024

The Hart Memorial Trophy stands as one of the most prestigious honors in the NHL, awarded annually to the player judged most valuable to their team during the regular season. Since its inception in 1924, this accolade has celebrated exceptional talent, leadership, and game-changing performances on the ice. From iconic legends of the sport to modern-day superstars, each winner has left a unique mark on hockey history. In this post, we’ll take a journey through time, exploring each of the Hart Trophy Winners, highlighting their remarkable seasons, and celebrating their contributions to the game we love.

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NHL Games with Most Goals Scored in a Game

Posted by Ross Waataja on November 27, 2024

Scoring goals is the ultimate thrill in hockey, and the NHL has seen some unforgettable games where the puck seemed to find the back of the net at an incredible pace. From the early days of the NHL to the high-scoring showdowns of the 1980s to more recent offensive explosions, there have been some high-scoring affairs. Today we are going to look at the most NHL goals scored in a game. Let’s dive into the matchups where goal lights worked overtime.

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