30 Facts About Blackhawks Vs. Oilers

The Rivalry Begins

The Chicago Blackhawks and Edmonton Oilers have a storied rivalry that has spanned decades. This matchup has produced some unforgettable moments in NHL history. Let's dive into some fascinating facts about these two iconic teams.

1. The Blackhawks and Oilers first faced off on October 13, 1979. The Oilers were a new team in the NHL, having joined the league that year as part of the WHA-NHL merger.

2. The Blackhawks have won six Stanley Cups, while the Oilers have claimed five. Both teams have had periods of dominance in the league.

3. Wayne Gretzky, often considered the greatest hockey player of all time, played for the Oilers from 1979 to 1988. His presence elevated the rivalry with the Blackhawks.

Legendary Players

Both teams have been home to some of the greatest players in NHL history. These legends have left an indelible mark on the rivalry.

4. Bobby Hull, known as "The Golden Jet," was a star for the Blackhawks in the 1960s and 1970s. His powerful slap shot and scoring ability made him a fan favorite.

5. Mark Messier, another Oilers legend, played alongside Gretzky and helped the team win five Stanley Cups. He later went on to have a successful career with the New York Rangers.

6. Patrick Kane, a current Blackhawks star, has been instrumental in the team's recent success. He was the first overall pick in the 2007 NHL Draft and has won three Stanley Cups with Chicago.

Memorable Moments

The rivalry has produced some unforgettable games and moments that fans still talk about today.

7. In the 1983 Campbell Conference Finals, the Oilers defeated the Blackhawks in four games, marking their first trip to the Stanley Cup Finals. They would go on to lose to the New York Islanders.

8. The 1992 playoffs saw the Blackhawks sweep the Oilers in the second round. Chicago would eventually reach the Stanley Cup Finals but lost to the Pittsburgh Penguins.

9. During the 2020 NHL playoffs, the Blackhawks and Oilers faced off in the qualifying round. Chicago won the series 3-1, advancing to the first round of the playoffs.

Coaching Legends

Great coaches have also played a significant role in shaping the rivalry between these two teams.

10. Scotty Bowman, one of the most successful coaches in NHL history, served as a senior advisor for the Blackhawks during their recent championship runs.

11. Glen Sather, who coached the Oilers during their dynasty years, was known for his ability to manage star players and build a winning team.

12. Joel Quenneville, who coached the Blackhawks to three Stanley Cups, is considered one of the best coaches in modern NHL history.

Fan Bases

The passionate fan bases of both teams add another layer to the rivalry. These fans are known for their loyalty and enthusiasm.

13. The United Center, home of the Blackhawks, is one of the loudest arenas in the NHL. The "Madhouse on Madison" provides a significant home-ice advantage.

14. Rogers Place, where the Oilers play, is known for its state-of-the-art facilities and passionate fans. The arena opened in 2016 and has quickly become a favorite among players and fans alike.

15. Both teams have dedicated fan clubs and online communities that keep the rivalry alive year-round. Social media has only intensified the interactions between these passionate supporters.

Records and Achievements

The Blackhawks and Oilers have set numerous records and achieved significant milestones throughout their histories.

16. The Oilers hold the record for the most goals scored in a single season, with 446 goals during the 1983-84 season.

17. The Blackhawks set a record for the longest winning streak to start a season, going 24 games without a loss in the 2012-13 season.

18. Wayne Gretzky holds the record for the most points in a single season, with 215 points during the 1985-86 season. Many of those points came against the Blackhawks.

Modern-Day Matchups

Recent games between the Blackhawks and Oilers continue to be highly competitive and entertaining.

19. Connor McDavid, the Oilers' current captain, is one of the most exciting players in the NHL. His speed and skill make him a constant threat against any opponent.

20. Jonathan Toews, the Blackhawks' captain, is known for his leadership and two-way play. He has been a key figure in Chicago's recent success.

21. The 2019-20 season saw the Blackhawks and Oilers split their regular-season series, with each team winning two games.

Impact on the NHL

The rivalry between the Blackhawks and Oilers has had a significant impact on the NHL as a whole.

22. The success of both teams has helped grow the popularity of hockey in their respective regions. Chicago and Edmonton are now considered hockey hotbeds.

23. The rivalry has produced numerous Hall of Famers, including Gretzky, Messier, Hull, and many others. These players have left a lasting legacy on the sport.

24. The Blackhawks and Oilers have been involved in several high-profile trades over the years, further fueling the rivalry. One notable trade saw Chris Chelios move from Chicago to Detroit, intensifying the competition.

Cultural Impact

Beyond the ice, the rivalry has influenced popular culture and inspired countless fans.

25. The Blackhawks' logo, featuring a Native American chief, is one of the most recognizable in sports. It has become a symbol of pride for Chicago fans.

26. The Oilers' blue and orange jerseys are iconic and have remained largely unchanged since the team's inception. The design is a nod to the team's history and success.

27. Both teams have been featured in various movies, TV shows, and video games, further cementing their place in popular culture.

Future of the Rivalry

The future looks bright for this historic rivalry, with both teams boasting young talent and dedicated fan bases.

28. The Blackhawks have a promising young core, including players like Alex DeBrincat and Kirby Dach, who are expected to lead the team in the coming years.

29. The Oilers' future is equally bright, with McDavid and Leon Draisaitl forming one of the most dynamic duos in the league.

30. As long as these two teams continue to compete at a high level, the rivalry between the Blackhawks and Oilers will remain one of the most exciting in the NHL.

Final Whistle

The Blackhawks vs. Oilers rivalry has given fans countless unforgettable moments. From intense playoff battles to record-breaking performances, these teams have a rich history. The Blackhawks, with their storied past and multiple championships, bring a legacy of excellence. Meanwhile, the Oilers, known for their dynasty years and iconic players like Wayne Gretzky, have left an indelible mark on hockey.

Whether you're a die-hard fan or new to the sport, understanding this rivalry adds depth to your appreciation of the game. The passion, skill, and drama on display whenever these teams meet is a testament to the sport's enduring appeal. So next time the Blackhawks face the Oilers, you'll know the history behind every goal, save, and hit. Hockey isn't just a game; it's a story, and this rivalry is one of its most thrilling chapters.