NHL has a history spanning over a century, with numerous teams vying for the coveted Stanley Cup each year. While many franchises have tasted success, a select few have etched their names in the annals of hockey history by winning the most championships.
The top five teams to win the most Stanley Cups are all part of the Original Six. The Original Six, also known as the Six Teams, were the founding members of the NHL from 1942 to 1967.
Five NHL teams with the most Stanley Cup titles:
1. Montreal Canadiens: 24 Championships
The Montreal Canadiens are the undisputed kings of the NHL, with an astounding 24 Stanley Cup victories. Their first championship came in 1915-16, and their most recent was in 1992-93.
The Canadiens have been home to some of the greatest players in hockey history, including Maurice "Rocket" Richard, Jean Beliveau and Guy Lafleur.
2. Toronto Maple Leafs: 13 Championships
The Toronto Maple Leafs are in second place with 13 Stanley Cups. The Leafs won their first cup in 1918, but the team has been in a championship drought since their last victory in 1967. Despite that fact, the Maple Leafs are still considered one of the most storied teams in the NHL.
Their peak years were during the 1940s and 1960s, when they secured multiple championship wins.
3. Detroit Red Wings: 11 Championships
The Detroit Red Wings have claimed 11 Stanley Cup titles throughout their history. The team has been home to legendary players such as Gordie Howe, Steve Yzerman and Nicklas Lidstrom. The Red Wings first clinched their championship in 1936 and last in 2008.
4. Boston Bruins: 6 Championships
The Boston Bruins have won six Stanley Cups. The team's first championship came in 1929, and their most recent was in 2011. The Bruins have been a dominant force in the NHL for decades, thanks to the contributions of players like Bobby Orr, Ray Bourque, and Zdeno Chara.
5. Chicago Blackhawks: 6 Championships
The Chicago Blackhawks have also won six Stanley Cups, with their most recent victories coming in 2010, 2013, and 2015. The team's success in the 2010s was largely due to the incredible talent of players like Patrick Kane, Jonathan Toews, and Duncan Keith.
In the 2023–2024 season, only two of the top five Stanley Cup holders, the Maple Leafs and the Bruins, have made it to the playoffs. Furthermore, these teams are matched up against each other in the first round.
As of now, the Bruins lead the series 2-1. They secured a 5-1 victory in Game 1, suffered a 3-2 defeat in Game 2, and won 4-2 in Game 3 against the Maple Leafs.