It’s too soon to tell if the Oilers will be Stanley Cup champions for the first time since 1990, but the city of Edmonton is considering a return to its old moniker regardless.
Edmonton was officially known as the “City of Champions” for the better part of three decades, from 1987 until 2014, with the slogan prominently placed on city signs and largely associated with the success of the Edmonton Oilers during the 1980s and into the early 90s.
While many assumed the phrase was inspired by the Oilers’ dynasty during that time, it was actually created in honour of the volunteers who helped the city get back on its feet after a deadly tornado in 1987.
The Oilers won the franchise’s third Stanley Cup that year, and added two more after it to complete their run of five Cups in seven seasons.
“This has absolutely nothing to do with Oilers’ success at this point,” said Councillor Tony Caterina, who is leading the debate to bring back the slogan. “There are many groups that would like to see that moniker come back, but with an explanation of what that actually means.”
The Oilers will take on the Ducks Wednesday night in Anaheim in a do-or-die Game 7 to determine who will advance to the Western Conference Final.
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