An NHL franchise, winners of 24 Stanley Cups. The Canadiens predate the NHL, having been founded in 1909 to join the National Hockey Association. They won their first Stanley Cup in 1916 behind goaltender Georges Vezina.
The Habs were one of four teams that founded the National Hockey League in 1917, as well as one of the Original Six that made up the league for many years. They are arch rivals of both the Toronto Maple Leafs and the Boston Bruins.
As a Canadian team "Les Habs" suffer in the era of high salaries. Nonetheless, they win at least once every decade1. Stars have included Maurice Richard, Guy Lafleur, Ken Dryden and Patrick Roy. Famous incidents include the Rocket Richard Riots.
They won the Stanley Cup in 1916, 1924, 1930, 1931, 1944, 1946, 1953, 1956, 1957, 1958, 1959, 1960, 1965, 1966, 1968, 1969, 1971, 1973, 1976, 1977, 1978, 1979, 1986 and 1993.
Team colours: Red, white and blue.
Retired Numbers:
"To you from failing hands we throw the torch. Be yours to hold it high."
1. Like in 1993: the Pittsburgh Penguins should have won but the Pens lost to the New York Islanders in the 1st round of the playoffs and the Habs won the cup.