The Nordiques’ Legacy and the Birth of the Avalanche
If you’re looking for vintage Colorado Avalanche jerseys, chances are you already know a bit about their somewhat brief but impressive history. Based out of the mile-high city of Denver, Colorado, the Avalanche were actually founded in 1972 as the Quebec Nordiques.
The Nordiques then joined the NHL in 1979, when the NHL and WHA merged. Though they qualified for the postseason from 1981 to 1987, they were unable to secure a title. Following several years of decline, the team was sold and relocated to Denver in 1995.
Immediate Success in the Rockies
Fitting for their mountainous new location, the team was renamed the Colorado Avalanche after the move. A Colorado Avalanche jersey immediately carried with it the connotations of success, as the Avs would go on to win their first eight divisional titles in a row, the longest division title streak in NHL history.
In fact, in their first season in Denver, the Avalanche went on to defeat the Florida Panthers and win the Stanley Cup. A league championship in the first season following a relocation is practically unheard of, and the Colorado Avalanche was the first team to do so in the NHL.
Colorado Avalanche Legends and Challenges
A Colorado Avalanche player's jersey was worn by hockey greats such as:
All of these players are practically legends in their own right. Of course, it was Joe Sakic that would lead them to their first Stanley Cup.
In negotiating a salary raise, Sakic’s increased pay would result in higher salaries for players throughout the NHL. Sakic would then become the team’s all-time leading scorer, and then go on to lead the Colorado Avalanche to their second Stanley Cup in 2001.
Following the lockout in 2004–2005, the league’s new salary cap would hurt the Avalanche, and the number of recognizable Colorado Avalanche jerseys would decrease. What followed were typically considered to be rebuilding years for the franchise.
Pride and Tradition in Every Jersey
While a Colorado Avalanche vintage jersey doesn’t carry with it as many years of history as some of the older teams in the league, Colorado fans can wear them proudly. In their short history, the Avalanche have already had plenty of success.
Colorado Avalanche hockey jerseys make a great gift for the Denver fan in your family. Looking for yourself? Stand out at the next home game withcustom Colorado Avalanche Throwback jerseys that hearken back to those eight consecutive divisional titles.
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