Peepin' Foes: Quebec Nordiques

Saturday night's game will be on Channel 11 here in New York, a throwback to the days when the Rangers were on local broadcast television. It is a nice touch, but it is no National Hockey Night.

Where We Are: Life at the Garden is same as it ever was.

Where They Are: Moved to Colorado. What kind of crap is that?

Who To Watch For: Their roster still has the names Stastny, Sakic and Foote on it more than a decade after the move. Unreal. Granted, it is Peter Stastny's son Paul, Joe Sakic has gotten so old and senile that he can't work a snowblower and Adam Foote screwed over the Columbus Blue Jackets - a team that didn't exist while there was hockey in Quebec - to come home and use Denver's altitude to avoid the ravages of his advanced age.

What To Watch For: A complete lack of the brilliant combination of speed, grit and flair that marked so many of Quebec's best teams. Ugly jerseys that don't even have a single fleur de lis on them.

What We'll (Hopefully) See: The franchise to move back to Quebec City. Chris Drury to show up to play against the team that drafted him in the third round of the '94 draft. A good old time tussle or two.

Also Check Out: Quebec Nordiques Preservation Society and Quebec Nordiques Legends for the real team, Mile High Hockey, All Things Aves and my personal favourite Jibble Scribbits for the current pretenders.

 Peepin' Foes: Quebec Nordiques - A Look Back at a Historic Franchise

In the annals of hockey history, few teams are as storied and beloved as the Quebec Nordiques. Although they left the NHL in 1995 to become the Colorado Avalanche, the Nordiques remain a cherished memory for fans and a fascinating piece of hockey lore. In this article, we'll take a nostalgic journey through the history of the Quebec Nordiques, explore their legacy, and answer some frequently asked questions (FAQs) about the team.

Part I: The Birth of the Nordiques

The Quebec Nordiques were founded in 1972 as part of the NHL's expansion into the WHA (World Hockey Association) merger. The team was named after the French word for "Northerners," paying homage to their northern location in Canada. The Nordiques quickly became known for their passionate fan base and iconic blue, white, and red jerseys.

Highs:

Rivalry with the Montreal Canadiens: The Nordiques had one of the most intense rivalries in NHL history with the Montreal Canadiens. The "Battle of Quebec" was a showcase of fierce competition and passionate fan support.

Superstar Players: The Nordiques boasted legendary players like Peter Stastny, Michel Goulet, and Joe Sakic. These stars left an indelible mark on the franchise's history.

Fan Dedication: Quebec City's fans were among the most devoted in the league. They filled the Le Colisée arena to capacity for every game, creating an electric atmosphere.

Lows:

Financial Struggles: The Nordiques faced financial difficulties throughout their history, which ultimately contributed to their relocation to Colorado in 1995.

Missed Championships: Despite their talent, the Nordiques never won a Stanley Cup during their time in Quebec, leaving fans with a sense of unfinished business.

Part II: The Legacy of the Nordiques

The Quebec Nordiques may no longer exist in the NHL, but their legacy lives on:

Return to Quebec City: Hockey fans in Quebec City have long hoped for the return of an NHL franchise. The Nordiques' legacy fuels these aspirations, and discussions about expansion or relocation continue.

Player Legacy: Many former Nordiques players went on to have Hall of Fame careers, and their contributions to the game are celebrated to this day.

Iconic Jerseys: The Nordiques' blue and white fleur-de-lis jerseys remain popular with collectors and fans, symbolizing the team's enduring legacy.

Part III: FAQs About the Quebec Nordiques

1. Why did the Nordiques relocate to Colorado?

Financial struggles and the inability to secure a new arena in Quebec City were significant factors. The team's ownership saw better opportunities in Colorado.

2. Will the Nordiques ever return to the NHL?

While there's been speculation and interest in bringing an NHL team back to Quebec City, no concrete plans have materialized as of now.

3. What was the most memorable moment in Nordiques history?

Many fans remember the 1993 playoff series against the Montreal Canadiens, which showcased the intensity of the Quebec-Montreal rivalry.

4. Who were the greatest Nordiques players of all time?

Peter Stastny, Michel Goulet, Joe Sakic, and Mats Sundin are often regarded as some of the greatest Nordiques players.

The Quebec Nordiques, though gone from the NHL for nearly three decades, remain an indelible part of hockey history. Their passionate fans, intense rivalries, and iconic players are etched in the memories of hockey enthusiasts. While the return of the Nordiques to Quebec City remains uncertain, their legacy lives on as a testament to the rich history of the sport in North America. The story of the Nordiques is not just one of a hockey team but a tale of devotion, rivalry, and the enduring spirit of the game.