1978–79 NHL season

Structure and regular season

Teams competed for playoff berths through a schedule that emphasized intra- and inter-division matchups. Points were awarded under the standard system of the era, and playoff qualification led to a multi-round elimination tournament. During the regular season several clubs established themselves as contenders, while others were in transition preparing for the changes that would come with league expansion and merger discussions.

Playoffs and Stanley Cup

The postseason culminated in the Stanley Cup Final, contested between the Montreal Canadiens and the New York Rangers. The Canadiens captured the Cup, defeating the Rangers four games to one. The victory completed Montreal's run of four straight championships, a run notable for its consistency and quality of play. For contemporary accounts and detailed game logs see the league and team season summaries: 1978–79 NHL season, National Hockey League, Montreal Canadiens, New York Rangers, and the Stanley Cup records.

Key players and team characteristics

Montreal's roster blended high-end offensive talent, strong defensive play and goaltending depth—attributes that sustained their championship form across multiple seasons. The Canadiens featured prominent forwards and a corps of defensemen who contributed to both scoring and penalty killing. Other teams showcased emerging stars and established veterans who shaped the competitive landscape of the late 1970s NHL.

Legacy and significance

Historically, the 1978–79 season is remembered for ending an era just before the NHL expanded its membership through the assimilation of WHA franchises. Montreal's fourth consecutive title underscored a dynastic period in hockey history and influenced how clubs approached team-building in the years that followed. The season's developments also fed into rule discussions, broadcasting growth and broader interest in professional hockey throughout North America.

• Season: 62nd NHL campaign
• Teams: 17
• Games per team: 80
• Stanley Cup champion: Montreal Canadiens

For season statistics, rosters and individual award winners consult contemporary archives and team histories to explore game-by-game results and personal accomplishments in greater detail.