NHL Forum Covers: A Comprehensive Guide to the Past and Present

Introduction

The NHL Forum, located in Montreal, Canada, served as the home arena for the legendary Montreal Canadiens for over 70 years. During that time, the Forum witnessed some of the most iconic moments in hockey history, and its covers have become synonymous with the sport. This comprehensive guide will delve into the history of NHL Forum covers, highlighting their evolution, significance, and impact on the game.

The Birth of NHL Forum Covers

The first NHL Forum cover was published in 1924, featuring Newsy Lalonde of the Canadiens. It marked the beginning of a tradition that would continue for decades, showcasing the stars and teams that graced the Forum's hallowed ice. These early covers were simple and straightforward, often featuring a single player in action or a team photo.

The Golden Age of NHL Forum Covers

The 1950s and 1960s witnessed a golden age for NHL Forum covers. During this era, renowned artists such as George Gross and Stan Frayer created iconic images that captured the essence of the game and the players who made it great. These covers became collector's items, and many are considered masterpieces of sports art.

Legendary Covers

Throughout its history, NHL Forum covers have featured some of the most legendary players and moments in hockey. Some of the most notable covers include:

• 1944: Maurice Richard lifting the Stanley Cup
• 1957: Jean Béliveau scoring the winning goal in overtime
• 1971: Bobby Orr flying through the air after scoring the Cup-clinching goal
• 1993: Patrick Roy making an iconic save in the Stanley Cup Final

Evolution of NHL Forum Covers

As the game and society evolved, so did NHL Forum covers. In the 1970s and 1980s, more dynamic and colorful designs emerged, reflecting the changing tastes of the time. The 1990s and 2000s saw the introduction of digital photography and graphic design, which allowed for even more creative and visually appealing covers.

Modern NHL Forum Covers

Today, NHL Forum covers continue to showcase the stars and teams of the Montreal Canadiens. They are published both in print and digital formats, reaching a global audience. While the designs have evolved over time, the tradition of celebrating the history and culture of the Forum remains strong.

Significance and Benefits

NHL Forum covers have played a significant role in promoting the game of hockey and the Montreal Canadiens. They have:

• Captured iconic moments in hockey history
• Immortalized legendary players and teams
• Inspired generations of hockey fans
• Raised funds for charitable organizations

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When collecting NHL Forum covers, there are a few common mistakes to avoid:

• Purchasing reproductions: Always make sure to buy original copies to ensure authenticity.
• Storing covers improperly: Avoid exposing covers to sunlight, moisture, or heat, which can damage them.
• Neglecting condition: The condition of a cover can significantly affect its value.

Why NHL Forum Covers Matter

NHL Forum covers are more than just pieces of paper. They are visual representations of the history, passion, and legacy of the Montreal Canadiens and the game of hockey. They remind us of the great players, the iconic moments, and the enduring power of the sport.

Three Stories and Lessons Learned

Here are three humorous stories related to NHL Forum covers:

• Guy Lafleur's Missing Moustache: In a 1970s cover, Guy Lafleur's signature moustache was accidentally omitted. The error was quickly corrected, but it remains a legendary gaffe.
• The Two Georges: A cover from the 1950s featured Georges Vezina and George Hainsworth, two legendary goaltenders. However, the artist mistakenly labeled Vezina as Hainsworth, and vice versa.
• The Flying Habs: In a 1970s cover, the Montreal Canadiens were depicted flying through the air. However, one player was missing: Guy Lafleur. The explanation? He was busy scoring a goal at the other end of the ice!

These stories remind us that even the most iconic NHL Forum covers can sometimes be subject to human error and mishaps. But it's these imperfections that add to their charm and make them so memorable.

Three Useful Tables

Table 1: Top 10 NHL Forum Covers

Table 2: Estimated Value of NHL Forum Covers

Table 3: NHL Forum Covers by Artist

Conclusion

NHL Forum covers have played an integral role in the history and legacy of hockey. They have captured iconic moments, immortalized legendary players, and inspired generations of fans. Today, they continue to showcase the stars and teams of the Montreal Canadiens, while reminding us of the enduring power and passion of the game.