The Montreal Canadiens, founded in 1909, are the oldest professional hockey team still in existence and one of the most successful franchises in NHL history. Known as "Les Habitants" or "Habs," the Canadiens have won a record 24 Stanley Cup championships, the most of any team in the league. Their legacy is rich with iconic players like Maurice "Rocket" Richard, Jean Béliveau, and Guy Lafleur, who helped shape the team’s dominance, particularly from the 1950s through the 1970s. The Canadiens are celebrated for their storied rivalries, especially with the Toronto Maple Leafs and the Boston Bruins, and for their passionate fan base. Their home, the Bell Centre, continues to be a symbol of hockey excellence and a tribute to the team’s enduring influence on the sport.