The NHL was formed in 1917 as a 4 team league. Only 2 of the original 4 teams remain in the league today. The Montreal Canadiens and Toronto (known today as the Toronto Maple Leafs). Both franchises participated in the first ever NHL game.
Top 5 Oldest NHL Clubs:
1. Montreal Canadiens
Founded: 1909 (Entered NHL when it was formed in 1917)
2. Toronto Maple Leafs
Founded: 1917 (Was formed when the NHL was formed)
Name Changes: Originally known as simply 'Toronto', in 1918 it would be sponsored by an arena company and was called the 'Toronto Arenas.' In 1921, it would be renamed the 'St. Pats' in order to cater to the large Irish population in Toronto at the time. In 1927, Conn Smythe purchased the team and renamed it to the Toronto Maple Leafs.
3. Boston Bruins
Founded: 1924 (Expansion Franchise)
4. Chicago Blackhawks
Founded: 1926 (Expansion franchise)
4. New York Rangers
Founded: 1926 (Expansion franchise)
4. Detroit Red Wings
Founded: 1926 (Expansion franchises)
Name Changes: Originally known as the Cougars and Falcons before finally being renamed to the Red Wings in 1931.
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