Hockey is widely known for its fierce nature and an equally passionate fanbase, and there is nothing like good old rivalry to spike extra interest among such sports enthusiasts. There were many rivalries in the National Hockey League (NHL), as well as on the international scene that have played important roles in the history and culture of the sport.
In this article, we will take a closer look at some of the most intense rivalries in professional hockey.
International Rivalries
First, let’s mention some of the greatest rivalries between some of the top national teams in the world:
Canada – Russia
This is an exciting rivalry since it pairs two completely different national teams. On one side, there is Canada where everything is about the heart and skill. The players are constantly giving their all, while also focusing on perfecting the basic hockey positions and accompanying moves. On the other hand, there is Russia where the team strikes with lightning speed and finesse.
This rivalry started back in the time of the Soviet Union when their national team was known as one of the best in the world. Since then, both countries have achieved tremendous success in the discipline. Also, their efforts helped create unforgettable memories in the history of hockey.
USA – Canada
Embed from Getty ImagesThe competitiveness between the United States and Canada is surely among the oldest and the most intense. As we all know, both countries nurture a deep passion for the sport, and therefore, all their games create an incredible atmosphere.
The two national teams have played against each other in several international competitions, including a few different Olympic Games finals.
Sweden – Finland
Nordic countries are well-known for their competitiveness, and both Sweden and Finland have always been top contenders in international tournaments. As such, they developed a fierce rivalry on the ice. The hype behind it was strengthened by their multiple meetings in major championships.
The rivalry between Sweden and Finland is not limited to hockey. The two countries frequently compete against each other in other sports, too.
The Competitiveness Within NHL
Now it’s time to look into some of the greatest rivalries within the National Hockey League:
Boston Bruins – Montreal Canadians
Embed from Getty ImagesWhen it comes to the NHL, this pair has been considered to have the greatest rivalry. There’s a very good reason behind that. It all dates back to 1929 when they competed against each other for the first time.
Each time after that, they have been battling passionately on the ice, with an intensity that is hard to match. Their mutual history counts many memorable moments, including the infamous 1979 brawl with the legendary facing off between Bobby Orr and Maurice Richard.
Toronto Maple Leafs – Montreal Canadiens
When it comes to the rivalry between the Toronto Maple Leafs and the Montreal Canadiens, it is important to note that it is one of the oldest and most legendary ones in the history of the NHL. The two teams were both part of the “Original Six” in the league. As such, they have met in the playoffs several times.
Of course, each victory of either of the teams was celebrated with incredible passion by the respective fan bases. This rivalry is also considered a cultural phenomenon since we’re looking at the two provinces competing against each other in pretty intense matchups.
Chicago Blackhawks – Detroit Red Wings
Embed from Getty ImagesThe rivalry between the Detroit Red Wings and the Chicago Blackhawks has always been tough. The intensity was particularly noted during the Original Six era.
Their first meeting occurred on November 24, 1926, when the Red Wings, which were called the Detroit Cougars at the time, defeated Chicago 1-0.
In the following decades, the competitiveness between the two teams resulted in many exciting postseason matchups. This resulted in rather alternating levels of success, which led to intense battles and a deep-seated animosity between the two teams.
New York Rangers – New York Islanders
In this scenario, we are talking about the two opposing teams that are sharing the same city. In this so-called battle of New York, the teams have been through intense clashes which resulted in various incredible moments that kept the fans hooked ever since the 1980s when both teams established dominance in the league.
From that point on, their successful periods seem to alternate, which adds even more to their original rivalry which is unlikely to cease shortly.
Whether it’s the international scene or the famous NHL, the rivalries are the lifeblood of the sport that elevate it to unparalleled levels of intensity and excitement. Such historic matchups spike a lot of interest among the fans. And thanks to all the memorable moments and legendary players involved, they are sure to continue to captivate real enthusiasts year after year.
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1 Comment
Both Bobby Orr and Maurice Richard were retired in 1979. How were they involved in a brawl?