NHL Stanley Cup champions by year: Full list of past winners

The National Hockey League (NHL) has a rich history spanning over 100 years, with many memorable battles, fought on the ice for the prestigious Stanley Cup. Numerous worthy champions have emerged from the league’s inception in 1917-1918 to the most recent season in 2022-2023. Let’s take a trip through time and explore the complete list of past winners.

The Toronto Arenas claimed the first Stanley Cup in the inaugural season of 1917-1918. Unfortunately, the cup was not awarded the following season due to the devastating flu epidemic that affected the world. The Ottawa Senators emerged victorious in 1919-1920, earning their first championship title.

Over the years, legendary franchises and their talented players have won the Stanley Cup. The Montreal Canadiens, a dominant force in the league’s early years, have won the cup a record 24 times, solidifying their place as the most successful team in NHL history. Notably, they secured five unprecedented championships from 1955 to 1960.

Other teams have also made their mark in hockey history through skill and determination. The Toronto Maple Leafs have won the cup 13 times, followed by the Detroit Red Wings with 11 championships. The New York Islanders, Edmonton Oilers, and Chicago Blackhawks have also achieved significant victories, leaving an indelible impression on the sport.

NHL Stanley Cup champions

Here is a list of the NHL Stanley Cup champions by year, starting from the inaugural season in 1917-1918 up to the most recent completed season in 2020-2021: