Vancouver Canucks
The Vancouver Canucks are a professional National Hockey League ice hockey team based in Vancouver, British Columbia.
In 1946 the Pacific Coast Hockey League established an ice hockey franchise in the city of Vancouver. Known as the Canucks, they immediately enjoyed success by winning the PCHL championship in only their second year of existence. In 1953, the PCHL merged with the Western Canada Senior Hockey League to form the professional Western Hockey League (1951-1974). With numerous star players coming through the ranks like Johnny Bower, Andy Bathgate, Tony Esposito, Don Cherry and Phil Maloney, the Canucks won the Lesster Patrick Cup in 1958, 1960, 1969 and 1970. On May 22, 1970, for the sum of $6,000,000, the Vancouver Canucks joined the National Hockey League. Although primarily known for their perpetual futility in the NHL, the Canucks are now in the upper echelon of the Western Conference.
- Founded: 1970
- Arena: General Motors Place
- Uniform colours: Blue, red and silver
- Logo design: A stylized "C", consisting of an orca breaking out of water.
- Stanley Cup final appearances: 2 (0 won, 2 lost: 1981-1982 (lost), 1993-1994 (lost))
Franchise History
Expansion team established in May of 1970 after an unsuccessful bid in 1967.
- First Captain: Orland Kurtenbach
- First Game: October 9, 1970 vs. Los Angeles Kings
- First Victory: October 11, 1970 5 - 3 vs. Toronto Maple Leafs
- First Goal Scored: Barry Wilkins vs. Los Angeles Kings
Players of Note
Retired Numbers
- 12 Stan Smyl
- 99 Wayne Gretzky (retired league-wide by the NHL)
Current stars:
Not to be forgotten:
