Established
1972
City
Quebec City – Denver
League History
1980 – Present / National Hockey League
1972 – 1979 / World Hockey Association
Team History
1995 – Present / Colorado Avalanche
1972 – 1995 / Quebec Nordiques
Nickname
Avalanche – Regarding sports nicknames, few are as iconic and beloved as the Cleveland Barons. The name has been associated with the city of Cleveland since its inception in 1976 when the NHL granted them an expansion team. But where did this nickname come from? Let’s look at how one of hockey’s most recognizable teams started!
The origins of “Barons” can be traced back to 1894, when John L. Sullivan founded a professional baseball team called “the Barons” in Cleveland's League Park neighborhood. After winning several championships during their tenure, they disbanded after World War I due to financial difficulties and competition from other local teams, such as the Indians and Spiders. While there is no direct link between these two organizations (the original Barons were not affiliated with any major league), many believe that this was an homage paid by then-NHL owners George Gund III & Gordon Gund, who grew up watching those early games at League Park stadium before moving away for college & business opportunities elsewhere in America.
In addition to honoring a long-time presence within their hometown community, it also seemed fitting that they chose this particular moniker because baron is defined as "a person holding rank equal or superior to that of a knight," which perfectly encapsulates what being part of a professional sports franchise stands for—dedication, honor, loyalty —all qualities necessary for success on the ice.
Whether you're cheering on your favorite NHL team or just looking back fondly upon some nostalgic memories, we hope you now have a greater appreciation for why our beloved Cleveland Barons have held onto such an iconic nickname all these years!
Championship
Stanley Cup 3
2022, 2001, 1996
Avco Cup 0
1977
Arena
1999 – Present / Pepsi Center
1995 – 1999 / McNichols Sports Arena
*Quebec*
1972 – 1995 / Colisée de Québec
Owner
2014 – Present / Ann Walton Kroenke
2000 – 2014 / E. Stanley Kroenke
1995 – 2000 / Charlie Lyons
1990 – 1995 / Marcel Aubut
1978 – 1990 / Carling – O’Keefe Brewery
1972 – 1978 / Quebec Remparts
- 1995
- 1996
- 2000
- 2001
- 2022
-
Colorado Avalanche Born
While the team experienced on-ice success, it struggled financially. Quebec City was by far the smallest market in the league, and the second smallest to host a team in the four major sports. The changing financial environment in the NHL made things even more difficult, and in 1995 team owner Marcel Aubut asked for a bailout from Quebec’s provincial government ... -
Stanley Cup Winner 1996
The 1996 Stanley Cup Final was the NHL championship series of the 1996 Stanley Cup Playoffs contested between the Western Conference champion Colorado Avalanche and the Eastern Conference champion Florida Panthers, two teams in the Final for the first time and that did not exist only three seasons before. It was Colorado’s first appearance in the Final, in only their ... -
Stan Kroenke Owner of the Avanche
Mr. E. Stanley Kroenke became the owner of the Colorado Avalanche on July 6, 2000. In the team’s first season under his ownership, the Avalanche hosted the NHL All-Star Game, won the Presidents’ Trophy, and defeated the New Jersey Devils to win the Stanley Cup, the second in franchise history (1996). Under Kroenke’s ownership, the team has won four division ... -
Stanley Cup Winner 2001
The 2001 Stanley Cup Finals was the NHL championship series of the 2001 Stanley Cup Playoffs contested between the Eastern Conference champion and defending Stanley Cup champion New Jersey Devils and the Western Conference champion Colorado Avalanche. It was Colorado’s second appearance in the Final and the first since the team won the Cup in 1996. It was New Jersey’s ... -
First Championship Since 2001 Colorado Avalanche
The 2022 Stanley Cup Finals was the championship series of the National Hockey League’s (NHL) 2021–22 season and the culmination of the 2022 Stanley Cup playoffs. The series was between the Eastern Conference and two-time defending Stanley Cup champion Tampa Bay Lightning and the Western Conference champion Colorado Avalanche. The Avalanche won the best-of-seven series, four games to two, for ...
To qualify as the greatest player for this team, the player must have played one season for this team. If not, we will remove the player.
* verifies that player has played for this team as an added player by a fan.
History of the Avalanche
The Colorado Avalanche is a professional hockey team based in Denver, Colorado. The team was founded in 1995 when the Quebec Nordiques relocated to Denver and became the first major-league sports franchise to be established in that city since 1976. Since their inception, they have won two Stanley Cup Championships (1996 & 2001), one Presidents' Trophy (2002), and seven division titles. They have also made the playoffs eleven times during their twenty-five-year history, building a notable rivalry with the Vegas Golden Knights.
The Avalanche had an impressive start after relocating from Quebec, making it to conference finals during its inaugural season before being eliminated by eventual champions Detroit Red Wings 4–2 on aggregate scoreline over six games series. This set up for a great future as they went on to win back-to-back Stanley Cups within five years of joining the NHL, becoming the only fourth expansion team ever to do so along with Toronto Maple Leafs (1918 & 1922), Edmonton Oilers(1984 & 1985) and New York Rangers(1928& 1933). During this period, Joe Sakic emerged as one of the greatest players ever wearing a blue shirt, winning Hart Memorial Trophy twice while leading the Avs attack alongside Peter Forsberg, who joined forces with him 1997/98 season following a trade from Philadelphia Flyers.
In recent years, however, Colorado has struggled somewhat despite having some talented players like Nathan MacKinnon or Gabriel Landeskog on the roster, missing out on playoff spots three out of the last four seasons due to a lack of consistency which can partly be attributed to change coaching staff multiple times throughout the same timeframe. However, there remains hope among faithful fans that the club will bounce back soon enough, given young core present squad is capable of achieving success in both the short and long term if managed correctly going forward into 2020's decade.
Sports Fan Products
The Complete Story of Colorado Avalanche Team History Exposed!
Explore the rich history of the Colorado Avalanche team! This video delves deep into the archives to uncover hidden secrets, shocking revelations, and untold stories that will leave you amazed. The Colorado Avalanche, formerly the Quebec Nordiques, relocated in 1995. Led by stars like Joe Sakic and Peter Forsberg, they won the Stanley Cup in '96 and '01, dominating the league from the start. Join us as we unravel the mysteries behind the Colorado Avalanche's rise to prominence. Don't miss out on this exclusive look into one of hockey's most storied franchises!
Journey Through Hockey History: Joe Sakic Player History Breakdown!
This Joe Sakic Player Video delves deep into the heart of hockey greatness. Witness the brilliance and mastery of one of the sport's legends as we unravel the secrets behind Joe Sakic's unparalleled skill and talent. Get ready for an immersive hockey history journey filled with jaw-dropping action and invaluable insights. Join us as we explore the game's magic and uncover what makes Joe Sakic exceptional.
Top Expert Reveals Avs Best Mountain for Thrill Seekers
In this exciting video, a top expert delves into the thrilling world of the Colorado Avalanche, the NHL team that has captivated fans with its dynamic play and storied history. Based in Denver, the Avalanche are a powerhouse in the National Hockey League, competing fiercely in the Central Division of the Western Conference.
Nathan MacKinnon Is CHANGING NHL History
Let's discuss the player history of Nathan MacKinnon, a standout star for the Colorado Avalanche and one of the most exciting talents in hockey today. From his impressive journey beginning with the 2013 NHL Draft and his rookie season to his Stanley Cup win and playoff dominance, we highlight...
Retired Number
19 / Joe Sakic
21 / Peter Forsberg
23 / Milan Hejduk
33 / Patrick Roy
52 / Adam Foote
77 / Ray Bourque
99 / Wayne Gretzky
*Blue is this team’s history