NHL Conference Finals: A Historic Overview

The NHL, established in 1917-18, has seen its penultimate round of the Stanley Cup playoffs known as the conference finals since the 1981-82 season. This alignment was introduced to better reflect the geographical locations of the teams. The Eastern Conference and Western Conference labels were officially adopted in the 1993-94 season.

Notable Moments in NHL Conference Finals History

• Player with the most assists in a conference finals game: Toe Blake, Montreal Canadiens, five (1994 Game 2 vs. Toronto Maple Leafs); Glenn Anderson, Edmonton Oilers, five (1987 Game 5 vs. Detroit Red Wings); Paul Coffey, Edmonton Oilers, five (1985 Game 5 vs. Chicago Black Hawks)
• Player with the most points in a conference finals game: Paul Coffey, Edmonton Oilers, six (1985 Game 5 vs. Chicago Black Hawks)
• Player with the most goals in a conference finals series: Jari Kurri, Edmonton Oilers, 12* (1985 vs. Chicago Black Hawks)
• Player with the most assists in a conference finals series: Wayne Gretzky, Edmonton Oilers, 14 (1985 vs. Chicago Black Hawks)
• Player with the most points in a conference finals series: Wayne Gretzky, Edmonton Oilers, 18 (1985 vs. Chicago Black Hawks)
• Player with the most shutouts in a conference finals series: Michael Leighton, Philadelphia Flyers, three (2010 vs. Montreal Canadiens); Jean-Sebastien Giguere, Anaheim Ducks, three (2003 vs. Minnesota Wild)
• Team with the most goals in a conference finals game: Edmonton Oilers, 11 (1985 Game 1 vs. Chicago Black Hawks)
• Team with the most goals in a conference finals series: Edmonton Oilers, 44 (1985 vs. Chicago Black Hawks)

Eastern Conference Finals Winners

Recent winners include the Florida Panthers (2024), Tampa Bay Lightning (2022, 2020), and Pittsburgh Penguins (2017, 2016).

Western Conference Finals Winners

Recent winners include the Edmonton Oilers (2024), Vegas Golden Knights (2023), and Colorado Avalanche (2022).

2025 NHL Conference Finals Contenders

This year's conference finals feature the Florida Panthers, Carolina Hurricanes, Edmonton Oilers, and Dallas Stars. Each team brings a rich history and a strong desire to advance to the Stanley Cup Finals.

For more in-depth analysis, stats, and the latest news, visit the ESPN NHL hub page.