The Stanley Cup became a prestigious achievement for the teams, as it represented the supremacy of the sport. It started with 10 teams and then cut down to six from 1942 to 1967. After multiple expansions and developing interest, there are now 32 teams divided into two conferences and four divisions.

The odds of winning the cup are distributed among teams. The Stanley Cup odds reflect team’s chances of winning. Although it changes with every match, the Boston Bruins are favorites to lift the trophy this season.

How are the playoffs determined?

At the end of a regular season, four teams from each division qualify for the playoffs. It consists of three top teams of the division and one wild card. Afterward, the winners of the conferences battle out in the best-of-seven series for the Stanley Cup.

One of the founding members, the Montreal Canadiens has won the Stanley Cups more than any other team. Interestingly, out of 32 teams, 12 teams have never won the trophy, including Minnesota Wild, Arizona Coyotes, and Florida Panthers.

How much different are old NHL matches from modern NHL games?

Undoubtedly, if you watch early NHL matches, you would find them boring. The league has changed drastically for good. Although the 80s and 90s eras produced arguably the best ice hockey players, such as Mark Messier and Patrick Roy, the level of competitiveness and gameplay differs immensely in comparison.

In the past, the goalie and defense were there for a physical presence. The modern era is more strategic, and coaching tactics have evolved as well. Players are more professional and specialize in a position. Even players are powerful, quicker, and more skillful. Also, the pace of the game is faster.

Major developments came in 2005-06 when the NHL made a comprehensive change to rules. The goal line was moved to 11 feet from the boards, blue lines were moved to 75 feet, which reduced the neutral zone by four feet. The tag-up offside rule was introduced again, and so is the goaltender restricted to play the puck from a smaller area behind the net.

Additionally, to keep the game fair, any player who deliberately starts a fight in the final minutes of a match or in regulation time or overtime would receive misconduct and a one-game suspension. If a game is tied at the end of overtime, the winner is decided by a shootout.

The NHL initiateed another historic change in 2015-16, and allowed teams to have three skaters and a goaltender in the overtime of a regular season. Also, teams were allowed to review the offsides and interference of goaltenders when there is a goal.

Transformation of equipment

There were no helmets in an ice hockey match. Players and the goalie risked their bodies until 1928. Even the padding, especially of a goalie, was heavier and not durable compared to the present. The hockey sticks used to be short and heavy, which required more force to hit a puck. Today sticks are much lighter and perfectly shaped to assist players in scoring.

The ice wasn’t as smooth as it is now. Back in time, it was scraped with shovels to provide grip because ice skates weren’t so advanced. Speaking of which, the skates were made of leather and had long and thin blades, as opposed to modern skates.

Also, the arena looked very much different, as there were no nets or protective glass. It used to be an open ice rink, increasing the possibility of injuring spectators. The shape and material of goal nets have been changing with time, so you shouldn't be surprised if it changes again.

The roles of players have changed as well. At one time, the defense only had one role. It is now responsible for scoring goals from the blue line, so every team now has a player with the ability to shoot accurately. The offense has to put in the effort to hit a puck. Many players can hit at a speed of 100 mph from a distance.

Not only are the gears lighter and safer, but they are also more durable. Players' bodies are mapped using 3D scanning technology to create protective gear, and measurements are taken to build personalized pads. The gear is also reinforced with high-spec foam, which covers critical areas of the body that are more susceptible to trauma.

The tracking technology is groundbreaking. Chips are used in the pucks and jerseys to track and review their performances. These stats provide various metrics to help in improving strategies and gameplay.