Online Encyclopedia

Vancouver Canucks

The Vancouver Canucks are a professional National Hockey League ice hockey team based in Vancouver, British Columbia.

The 1970 Vancouver Canucks

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

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. With numerous star players coming through the ranks like Johnny Bower, Andy Bathgate, Tony Esposito , Don Cherry and Phil Maloney , the Canucks won the Lester Patrick Cup in 1958, 1960, 1969 and 1970.

In 1965, when the NHL announced plans to expand to six additional markets (soon to be known as the Expansion Six), the WHL's Canucks owner and former Vancouver mayor Fred Hume announced that the city of Vancouver would apply. However, the presentation to the NHL's Board of Governors was sloppily prepared. Because of this, and the fact that the Vancouver ownership group was disliked by Chicago Blackhawks owner James Norris and Toronto Maple Leafs owner Stafford Smythe (who hated Vancouver in general because of a failed arena plan), the application did not succeed. Nevertheless, the Pacific Coliseum, which was to be the first home for a prospective Vancouver team, was built on the grounds of the Vancouver Exhibition .

In 1970, another Vancouver ownership group bought the minor-league Canucks and, after much negotiating, the Canucks joined the NHL for the price of $6 million. Interestingly, the Canucks were placed in the East Division to maintain parity between the two divisions (more interesting was the fact that the Blackhawks moved from the East Division to the West Division the same year).

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