U.S.-based Original Six NHL Teams Miss Playoffs for First Time

For the first time in NHL history, the Original Six teams based in the U.S.—the Detroit Red Wings, Boston Bruins, Chicago Blackhawks, and New York Rangers—will all miss the playoffs in the same season. This marks a significant downturn for franchises that have historically dominated the league, collectively winning the Stanley Cup 27 times. The Red Wings have failed to make the postseason for nine consecutive years, while the Bruins will finish last in the Eastern Conference, marking their first playoff miss since 2016. The Rangers, who had high expectations after winning the Presidents' Trophy last season, struggled under new coach Peter Laviolette and also fell short of playoff contention. Meanwhile, the Blackhawks continue to languish at the bottom of their division for the third year in a row. As Canadian teams like the Toronto Maple Leafs and Montreal Canadiens move forward in the playoffs, the absence of these American franchises highlights a significant shift in the NHL landscape.