1961–62 National Hockey League season

Teams and format

Six teams contested the season: Boston Bruins, Chicago Black Hawks, Detroit Red Wings, Montreal Canadiens, New York Rangers and Toronto Maple Leafs. The regular season determined the top four clubs, which qualified for the Stanley Cup playoffs. Postseason series were played in best‑of‑seven format, with two semifinals and a final to decide the champion.

Regular season and style of play

The season featured a mix of physical play, disciplined defence and emerging offensive stars. The league showcased several Hall of Fame figures who were among the era’s top performers and fan attractions. With only six teams, small point differentials in the standings often had large consequences for playoff qualification, and head‑to‑head matchups were critical.

Playoffs and Stanley Cup

After the regular season, the top four teams advanced to the semifinals. The playoffs produced tightly contested series typical of the period. The Toronto Maple Leafs advanced through the bracket and won the Stanley Cup, defeating the Chicago Black Hawks in the final to claim the league championship for that season.

Awards, leaders and goaltending

The NHL presented its customary individual trophies for performance during the season, including awards for most valuable player, leading scorer, top defenceman, rookie of the year and top goaltender. Statistical races for scoring and goaltending were closely followed by reporters and supporters, and outstanding individual seasons contributed to club success.

Legacy and context

This season is part of the larger narrative of the Original Six era, which is remembered for concentrated competition, stable franchises and enduring player rivalries. The 1961–62 campaign preceded the expansion era that would alter the league’s size and geography later in the decade, and it remains a representative season of mid‑20th century professional hockey.