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The National Hockey League (NHL) is one of the most popular sports leagues in North America, and it has a rich history that dates back over a century. If you’re a fan of hockey or just someone who wants to learn more about this exciting sport, here are five awesome factoids that will help you get to know the NHL like a pro:
Origins of the NHL
The NHL was founded on November 26, 1917, when several professional ice hockey teams from Canada and the United States came together to form a new league. The original six teams were the Montreal Canadiens, Toronto Maple Leafs, Ottawa Senators, Quebec Bulldogs, Boston Bruins, and New York Americans. Over time, the league grew to include additional teams from both countries, as well as franchises based in Europe and Asia. Today, there are 31 teams in the NHL, including some of the world’s most iconic sports brands such as the Chicago Blackhawks, Detroit Red Wings, and Los Angeles Kings.
Greatest Players in NHL History
Throughout its long and storied history, the NHL has been home to countless great players who have left their mark on the game. Some of the all-time greats include Wayne Gretzky, Mario Lemieux, Bobby Orr, Maurice Richard, and Howie Morenz. These legends of the game not only set records but also revolutionized the way hockey was played, paving the way for future generations of stars.
Unusual Records and Milestones
One thing that makes hockey so fascinating is the wide range of unusual records and milestones that have been achieved throughout the years. For example, did you know that the fastest goal ever scored in an NHL game was by Kevin Stevens of the Pittsburgh Penguins? He managed to score just seven seconds into a match against the Washington Capitals in 1998. Another interesting tidbit is that the longest penalty shot attempt in NHL history took place during a game between the Philadelphia Flyers and Vancouver Canucks in 1984. Rick Tocchet of the Flyers attempted a shot from center ice, which traveled a total distance of 125 feet before going into the net.
Funny Nicknames and Superstitions
Hockey players are known for being superstitious, and many of them have unique nicknames and rituals that they believe bring them good luck. One famous example is “Mr. Game Seven,” which refers to Patrick Roy, a former goaltender for the Colorado Avalanche who had a remarkable record of success in seventh games of playoff series. Other notable nicknames include “The Great One” (Wayne Gretzky), “Le Magnifique” (Maurice Richard), and “The Rocket” (Bobby Hull).
Interesting Trivia About Hockey Rinks
Finally, if you want to impress your friends with your knowledge of hockey trivia, there are plenty of fun facts to learn about the rinks where games are played. For instance, did you know that the red line on either side of the ice represents the centerline, while the blue lines represent the neutral zone? Additionally, the circles at each end of the rink are called faceoff dots, and they indicate where players must stand during faceoffs. And finally, the highest point in any NHL arena is usually located above the goals, which allows fans to see the action from every angle.