The Hartford Whalers history tells the story of one of the NHL’s most beloved franchises. Established in 1972, Hartford Whalers hockey became a cultural touchstone for fans across Connecticut. From its WHA roots to its NHL years, the team created unforgettable moments and rivalries that continue to resonate with hockey enthusiasts today.
Established
1972
City
Boston – Hartford – Raleigh
League History
1979 – Present / National Hockey League
1972 – 1979 / World Hockey Association
Team History
1997 – Present / Carolina Hurricanes
1979 – 1997 / Hartford Whalers
1972 – 1979 / New England Whalers
Nickname
Whalers – The Hartford Whalers are among the most iconic National Hockey League (NHL) teams. The team has a long and storied history, with its roots dating back to 1972 when it was founded as an expansion franchise. But what many people don’t know is that their nickname has some fascinating origins.
When the team first existed, they were known as New England Whalers due to their location in Connecticut, part of New England. However, after just two years, they decided to shorten this name and become “the Whalers” instead – a decision that would have far-reaching implications for fans and players alike over time!
Hartford Whalers Origin
The reason behind why this change was made lies within Connecticut itself, specifically its strong maritime heritage. This state was home to numerous whaling ships during colonial times – so much so that it even earned them another nickname: “the Land of Steady Habits” (or LOSH). As such, using whales as part of their branding seemed like an obvious choice for those involved with creating the new hockey team's identity at that period!
It also didn't hurt when you consider how popular whale watching had become by then - especially among tourists visiting from outside areas who wanted something unique or special about Connecticut while on vacation there too! This all helped contribute towards making sure everyone knew exactly who "the Hartford Whalers" was whenever they heard or saw anything related to them being mentioned anywhere around town - no matter if it is through articles written up about them online/in newspapers, etc., television commercials advertising games happening soon nearby area stadiums, etc.
So next time you hear someone talking about "Hartford Whaler," take a minute out of your day to remember where this beloved NHL franchise got its start back in 1972 - thanks largely due partly because residents' love affair with whales & other sea creatures living off coastlines nearby regionally speaking too!
Championship
Stanley Cups 0
2006
Avco Cup 0
1973
Arena
2013 – Present / PNC Arena
2002 – 2012 / RBC Center
1999 – 2002 / Raleigh Entertainment & Sports Arena
1997 – 1999 / Greensboro Coliseum
*Hartford*
1975 – 1978, 1980 – 1997 / Hartford Civic Center
1978 – 1980 / Springfield Civic Center
*Boston*
1974 – 1975 / The Big E Coliseum
1972 – 1974 / Boston Garden
1972 – 1973 / Boston Arena
Owner
2017 – Present / Thomas Dundon
1994 – 2017 / Peter Karmanos, Jr.
1972 – 1993 / Howard Baldwin, John Coburn, W. Godfrey Wood and William Edward Barnes
- 1974
- 1994
- 1997
Relocate to Hartford
While in Boston, the club played their home games at the Boston Arena and Boston Garden. However game scheduling at Boston Garden owned by the rival NHL Bruins became increasingly difficult, and the owners decided to relocate the team to Hartford, Connecticut beginning with the 1974 – 1975 season. The area, aside from various minor league teams in New Haven, ...
Peter Karmanos New Owner
In the summer of 1994, the Whalers were purchased, in a deal brokered by the Connecticut Development Authority, by Compuware CEO Peter Karmanos, along with partners Thomas Thewes, and Jim Rutherford. Rutherford became the team’s new General Manager and Holmgren came back as the Head Coach. The new ownership wanted to turn the team into a winner for the 1994 ...
Heading to North Carolina
Despite assurances made when he purchased the team in 1994 that the Whalers would remain in Hartford at least through 1998, in March 1997 owner Peter Karmanos announced that the team would move elsewhere after the 1996 – 1997 season because of the team’s inability to negotiate a satisfactory construction and lease package for a new arena in Hartford. On ...
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.
Hartford Whalers History
The Hartford Whalers history traces back to 1972 when the franchise was established as one of the original teams of the World Hockey Association (WHA). Known initially as the New England Whalers, the team quickly became a fan favorite. When the WHA merged with the NHL in 1979, the franchise officially joined the league and was renamed the Hartford Whalers. They played their last game on April 13, 1997, but their impact on Hartford Whalers hockey still resonates today.
During their time in the NHL, the Whalers won two division titles and made four playoff appearances. The team built a spirited rivalry with its former WHA opponents and developed one of the league's most passionate fan bases. Under head coach Larry Pleau, the Whalers captured back-to-back Adams Division championships in the 1986–87 and 1987–88 seasons. Their first-round upset over the Montreal Canadiens during that era remains one of the most iconic moments in Hartford Whalers history and a highlight of Hartford Whalers hockey.
The team’s green and blue jerseys were worn by some of the NHL’s most respected players. Ron Francis set numerous franchise records and became synonymous with Hartford Whalers hockey, while Kevin Dineen captained the team for five years. Other notable players included Ulf Samuelsson, Pat Verbeek, and Mike Liut, who all helped define the identity of the Whalers both on and off the ice.
Financial challenges and failed negotiations over a new arena between owner Peter Karmanos Jr. and local officials ultimately led to the team’s relocation. After 15 years of playing at what is now the XL Center, the Whalers moved to North Carolina and became the Carolina Hurricanes starting with the 1997–98 season. This relocation marked the end of an era but cemented the Hartford Whalers history as a cherished chapter in NHL lore.
Whalers Achievements
Despite the Whalers' departure from the NHL, Hartford Whalers hockey continues to live on through the AHL’s Hartford Wolf Pack, which has played in the city since 1997. Annual events like “WhalerFest” and the “Farewell Season Reunion” bring together former players and fans, keeping the team’s legacy alive. The continued popularity of their merchandise and logo further underscores the enduring appeal of the Whalers’ unique identity.
The achievements of the Hartford Whalers go beyond division titles and playoff appearances. They helped expand the NHL’s footprint into new markets and demonstrated Connecticut's passion for professional hockey. The franchise nurtured young talent, influenced community programs, and left an indelible mark on the league.
Today, the Hartford Whalers history inspires nostalgia and hope among fans who dream of seeing top-tier Hartford Whalers hockey return to the city. While the Hurricanes have gone on to win a Stanley Cup, the Whalers’ legacy remains unmatched for its cultural impact, loyal fan base, and the unforgettable moments that still echo through downtown Hartford.
Retired Number
2 / Glen Wesley
10 / Ron Francis
17 / Rod Brind’Amour
99 / Wayne Gretzky
*Blue is this team’s history