Are you ready to learn some cool facts about the Blues vs. Blue Jackets rivalry? This matchup between the St. Louis Blues and the Columbus Blue Jackets has given hockey fans some unforgettable moments. From thrilling overtime wins to intense face-offs, these games never disappoint. Did you know that the Blues have been around since 1967, while the Blue Jackets joined the NHL in 2000? Despite the age gap, both teams have built passionate fan bases. Want to know which team has the upper hand in their head-to-head battles? Or maybe you're curious about standout players and memorable games? Keep reading to find out all the juicy details about this exciting rivalry!
History of the Teams
The St. Louis Blues and the Columbus Blue Jackets have rich histories in the NHL. Let's dive into some fascinating facts about these two teams.
- The St. Louis Blues were established in 1967 as part of the NHL's first expansion beyond the Original Six teams.
- The Columbus Blue Jackets joined the NHL in 2000, making them one of the league's newer franchises.
- The Blues were named after the famous W.C. Handy song "St. Louis Blues."
- The Blue Jackets' name honors Ohio's Civil War history, referencing the Union soldiers' blue uniforms.
- The Blues have made the playoffs in most of their seasons, showcasing consistent performance.
- The Blue Jackets secured their first playoff series win in 2019, sweeping the Tampa Bay Lightning.
Memorable Moments
Both teams have had their share of unforgettable moments that have left fans in awe.
- The Blues won their first Stanley Cup in 2019, defeating the Boston Bruins in a thrilling seven-game series.
- The Blue Jackets' 2019 playoff sweep of the Lightning is considered one of the biggest upsets in NHL history.
- The Blues' Brett Hull scored his 500th career goal in 1996, a milestone celebrated by fans.
- The Blue Jackets' Rick Nash set a franchise record with 41 goals in the 2003-04 season.
- The Blues' longest winning streak is 11 games, achieved in the 2018-19 season.
- The Blue Jackets' longest winning streak is 16 games, set during the 2016-17 season.
Iconic Players
Both teams have been home to some of the NHL's most iconic players.
- Brett Hull, a Hall of Famer, is one of the Blues' most legendary players.
- Rick Nash, the Blue Jackets' all-time leading scorer, was the face of the franchise for many years.
- Al MacInnis, known for his powerful slap shot, played for the Blues from 1994 to 2004.
- Sergei Bobrovsky, a two-time Vezina Trophy winner, was a standout goalie for the Blue Jackets.
- Bernie Federko, another Blues Hall of Famer, was the first player in franchise history to have his number retired.
- Nick Foligno, a former captain, was a key leader for the Blue Jackets on and off the ice.
Rivalries and Matchups
Rivalries and matchups add excitement to the games between these two teams.
- The Blues have a fierce rivalry with the Chicago Blackhawks, dating back to their early years.
- The Blue Jackets' rivalry with the Pittsburgh Penguins is fueled by geographic proximity and playoff battles.
- The Blues and Blue Jackets have faced each other numerous times, with the Blues generally having the upper hand.
- The Blues' rivalry with the Detroit Red Wings was intense during the Red Wings' time in the Western Conference.
- The Blue Jackets' rivalry with the Washington Capitals has grown in recent years, especially after their playoff series in 2018.
- The Blues and Blue Jackets often play close, hard-fought games, making their matchups exciting for fans.
Fan Culture
Both teams boast passionate fan bases that bring energy to every game.
- The Blues' fans are known for their loud and enthusiastic support, especially during playoff runs.
- The Blue Jackets' fans, known as the "5th Line," create a raucous atmosphere at Nationwide Arena.
- The Blues' victory song, "Gloria," became a fan favorite during their 2019 Stanley Cup run.
- The Blue Jackets' cannon, fired after every home goal, is a unique and beloved tradition.
- The Blues' mascot, Louie the Bear, is a fan favorite at games and events.
- The Blue Jackets' mascot, Stinger, is a green bug that entertains fans with his antics.
Final Whistle
The Blues vs. Blue Jackets rivalry is packed with history, intense matchups, and memorable moments. From their inception to their current standings, both teams have shown remarkable growth and dedication to the sport. Fans have witnessed legendary players, record-breaking games, and unforgettable plays that have cemented this rivalry in NHL history. Whether you're a die-hard fan or new to hockey, understanding these 30 facts gives you a deeper appreciation for the passion and skill that define these teams. As the seasons progress, the Blues and Blue Jackets will continue to thrill and excite, adding new chapters to their storied rivalry. Keep an eye on these teams; their future matchups promise to be just as electrifying as their past encounters. Hockey fans, get ready for more action-packed games and epic showdowns.
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