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The World Hockey Association (WHA) was a major force in the professional ice hockey world between 1972 and 1979. Though it was short-lived, the WHA left an undeniable impact on the sport, introducing innovation, fierce competition, and key players who would go on to shape the NHL. For nearly a decade, the WHA provided fans with a high level of play and a glimpse of what hockey could look like outside the shadow of the National Hockey League (NHL).
In this article, we take a deep dive into the history of the WHA, focusing on its teams, players, key moments, and eventual merger with the NHL. We also explore some of the fascinating stories behind the league’s iconic All-Star Games, highlighting the fierce rivalries and unforgettable matchups that defined the WHA’s lasting legacy.
The WHA Teams: Franchises, Cities, and Their Fate
The WHA was home to a mix of well-known cities and new markets that hadn’t yet embraced the sport of professional ice hockey. While some of these franchises succeeded in making a name for themselves, others folded or were absorbed into the NHL.
The Alberta Oilers (1972–1979)
One of the most successful teams in WHA history, the Alberta Oilers (later known as the Edmonton Oilers) joined the NHL in 1979 and became a dominant force in the league. Stars like Wayne Gretzky, Mark Messier, and Jari Kurri would go on to cement the Oilers’ legacy as one of the greatest NHL franchises.
The Chicago Cougars (1972–1975)
The Chicago Cougars had a short but memorable run in the WHA, folding in 1975 after just three seasons. Despite strong local support, the team struggled to keep up with the growing financial and competitive pressures of the league.
The Cincinnati Stingers (1975–1979)
The Cincinnati Stingers played from 1975 to 1979 before joining the Central Hockey League in the 1979-80 season. Despite the team’s brief existence, the Stingers managed to create a passionate fan base before their departure from the WHA.
The Cleveland Crusaders (1972–1976)
Another team that came and went in a short time was the Cleveland Crusaders, which folded in 1976. Despite a promising start, the Crusaders faced financial struggles and ultimately couldn’t keep up with the WHA’s intense competition.
The Denver Spurs and Ottawa Civics (1975–1976)
Both the Denver Spurs and Ottawa Civics had fleeting existences in the WHA, with both teams folding within a year of their formation. These teams were unable to attract the fan support or financial stability needed to survive in the league.
The Houston Aeros (1972–1978)
The Houston Aeros were a mainstay in the WHA, remaining active until 1978. Under the leadership of legendary coach Gordie Howe, the Aeros achieved success on the ice, creating some of the league’s most iconic moments.
The New England Whalers (1972–1979)
The New England Whalers, later known as the Hartford Whalers in the NHL, were one of the WHA’s flagship teams. With legendary players like Rick Middleton and Dave Gagner, the Whalers helped to solidify the WHA’s place in history before transitioning to the NHL.
The Winnipeg Jets (1972–1979)
Perhaps the most famous WHA team to make the jump to the NHL, the Winnipeg Jets continued their legacy in the National Hockey League after 1979, where they would go on to become a powerhouse in their own right.
The Quebec Nordiques (1972–1979)
The Quebec Nordiques were another team that made the transition to the NHL after the merger, eventually becoming the Colorado Avalanche. The Nordiques were known for their intense rivalries and for being one of the WHA’s most competitive franchises.
WHA All-Star Games: Memorable Moments and Epic Matchups
The WHA All-Star Game was an annual tradition that brought together the league’s best talent. It featured various formats over the years, with some years focusing on regional matchups between Eastern and Western Divisions, while others highlighted international teams or celebrated the AVCO Cup champions.
1973 WHA All-Star Game – Eastern Division 6, Western Division 2
Held in Quebec, the first WHA All-Star Game set the tone for the intense competition that would follow. The Eastern Division triumphed, with the game marking the beginning of an annual tradition that would continue for the league’s remaining years.
1975 WHA All-Star Game – Western Division 6, Eastern Division 4
In Edmonton, the Western Division showcased its dominance in a high-scoring game, with both teams putting on an exciting display of speed and skill.
1977 WHA All-Star Game – Eastern Division 4, Western Division 2
This game, held in Hartford, was notable for its emphasis on Canadian-based teams (five) versus U.S.-based teams (nine), offering fans a thrilling showcase of talent from both sides of the border.
1978 WHA All-Star Game – AVCO Cup Champion Quebec Nordiques 5, WHA All-Star Team 4
In one of the most memorable All-Star Games, the reigning champions Quebec Nordiques took on the WHA All-Stars, winning by a narrow margin in an intense contest. The game exemplified the fierce competition that existed in the WHA.
1979 WHA All-Star Series – WHA All-Star Team vs. Dynamo Moscow
In what would be the final WHA All-Star event, the WHA All-Star Team played a three-game series against the powerhouse Dynamo Moscow. The WHA team triumphed in all three games, with scores of 4-2, 4-2, and 4-3, marking a glorious end to the WHA’s All-Star tradition.
The Legacy of the WHA: A Legacy That Shaped the NHL
Despite its relatively short existence, the World Hockey Association played a pivotal role in shaping the landscape of professional ice hockey. The league pushed the NHL to evolve by introducing new innovations such as the penalty shot and helping to popularize hockey in regions that had previously not embraced the sport.
The WHA also introduced several players who would go on to become household names in the NHL, including Wayne Gretzky, Mark Messier, and Jari Kurri. These players, among others, not only changed the face of the NHL but also helped to elevate the status of the league to what it is today.
Ultimately, the WHA’s merger with the NHL in 1979 brought an end to the league, but its impact on the sport of ice hockey will never be forgotten. Today, the Edmonton Oilers, Quebec Nordiques (now the Colorado Avalanche), and the Winnipeg Jets all continue to carry the legacy of their WHA origins in the NHL.
The World Hockey Association remains a fascinating chapter in the history of professional sports, and its contributions to ice hockey are still felt today. Whether through the incredible All-Star Games, unforgettable matchups, or the stars that emerged from its ranks, the WHA helped to shape the future of the game and set the stage for the NHL’s global popularity.