1955: Gordie's Cup

The year is 1955. The 1950s clash of the titans known as the Detroit Red Wings and Montreal Canadiens is resumed yet again in the Stanley Cup finals.

1955 would prove to be Detroit's year again, repeating as champions and their third title in 4 years, all but officially bestowing dynasty status upon them.

Despite 7 consecutive regular season championships, the Wings had a few post-season misses heading into their dynasty, giving the organization and it's star player Gordie Howe had a bit of a suspect record in the playoffs. But any such reputation was wiped from history in 1955, thanks to they dynasty tag.

Howe had a fantastic playoffs. He led all players with 9 goals, and 20 points, a new NHL record. In the 7 game finals against the Habs, Howe registered 5 goals and 12 points. He scored what proved to be the Stanley Cup winning goal with just 11 seconds of the 2nd period of game 7.

Though Howe would play hockey until 1980, this would be his last Stanley Cup.

Montreal was forced to play without Gordie Howe's arch rival, Maurice "Rocket" Richard. Richard was famously suspended for the balance of the season plus the playoffs after attacking a linesman. The incident culminated with the Richard Riot, which occurred in a game against Detroit. The interrupted game and two points in the standings were given to Detroit by forfeit. Interestingly, Detroit would finish 2 points ahead of Montreal in the season, giving the Red Wings home ice advantage for game 7 of the Stanley Cup finals.

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