Boston Bruins and Montreal Canadiens are one of the oldest and most storied rivalries in the NHL. The two teams first met in 1924, and since then they have faced each other more than any other two teams in NHL history. They have played each other in over 900 regular season games, and have met in 34 playoff series, with the Canadiens holding a slight edge in the all-time series.
Edmonton Oilers and Calgary Flames rivalry, also known as the “Battle of Alberta,” dates back to the 1980s when both teams were powerhouses in the NHL. They have met in the playoffs several times, including in the 1986 and 1991 Stanley Cup Finals. The rivalry has been fueled by the close proximity of the two teams and the passion of the fan bases.
New York Rangers and New York Islanders, these two teams are based in the same city and have been rivals since the Islanders joined the league in 1972. The teams have met in the playoffs several times, including in the 1983 and 1994 playoffs, with the Rangers coming out on top both times.
Detroit Red Wings and Chicago Blackhawks, This Original Six rivalry dates back to the 1920s. These two teams have met in the playoffs several times, including in the 2013 Western Conference Semifinals, a series that featured several close games and overtime finishes. Both teams have passionate fan bases and have been competitive in the same division for many years.
Pittsburgh Penguins and Philadelphia Flyers rivalry is known as the “Battle of Pennsylvania” and has been fueled by the proximity of the two teams and their history of competitive games. The two teams have met in the playoffs several times, including in the 2008 Eastern Conference Finals, which the Penguins won on their way to winning the Stanley Cup.