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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
Lesster 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
Barry Wilkins scores the first goal in Canucks history against the Los Angeles Kings. The Canucks would unfortunately lose the game 3-1.
Players of Note
Hall of Famers:
Retired Numbers
Current stars:
Not to be forgotten:
External link:
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