Sweater Standouts: Ranking the Chicago Blackhawks and other NHL Centennial sweaters

""Since our inception, the Chicago Blackhawks have been more than just a hockey team—we've been an integral part of Chicago's identity and a driving force in the evolution of the sport. This Centennial celebration isn't just about honoring our past achievements but also about recommitting ourselves to innovation, community impact, and excellence for the century ahead""

Danny Wirtz, Blackhawks Chairman and CEO

The Chicago Blackhawks began their Centennial season this year and have gotten off to a good start with their young core. Connor Bedard, Frank Nazar, and company are representing this team well as they usher in a new era of Blackhawks hockey. With the Centennial Season, the Blackhawks have debuted new sweaters that they will only be wearing at the United Center.

Chicago Blackhawks

How can you beat something that is already perfect? That must have been what the Blackhawks' front office was thinking when they unveiled the Centennial year sweater. Very little changed from the original home Hawks' sweater minus a few details. There is now a gold outline around the iconic Indian head logo and also a lace up collar at the top of the sweater. Overall it is a simple design but it speaks to the Blackhawks history as it has changed very little over the years. The best sweater and logo in professional sports continues to reign supreme. 10/10

Detroit Red Wings

Once again, another Original Six team did not miss the mark with their Centennial sweater. The Red Wings have long stated one of the most iconic logos and jerseys in all of sports, and this design proves that even subtle changes can elevate an already classic look. The shade of red on this sweater is slightly different from years past along with a cream color for the winged wheel, stripes, number, and name instead of their traditional white. The Wings have begun the year on a torrid pace and they hope to make the playoffs for the first time since the 2015-2016 season. Perhaps these new sweaters have given them a boost as they are looking great on the ice. 9/10

New York Rangers

The Rangers also chose to stay with their roots and produce a sweater that is similar to what it has worn over their history. This sweater pays homage to those that suited up for the team from the Big Apple. They chose to wear a lighter blue sweater near identical to that of their very first sweaters. After initially seeing the sweater, I was not the biggest fan but that all changed after watching them in their first game on the ice. The Rangers may not be scoring goals at home but they sure look good out there. 8/10

New Sweaters also Appearing in 2025-2026

Other teams around the NHL have also unveiled new sweaters for the 2025-2026 season. The Carolina Hurricanes and Edmonton Oilers have new alternate road uniforms this year while Los Angeles, Ottawa, Pittsburgh, Seattle and Washington have new third alternate sweaters that will be worn at home. Additionally, Minnesota and San Jose are wearing throwback sweaters for certain games this year. Finally, St. Louis (who unfortunately have an extremely good look) and Utah are debuting new sweaters to be worn for this season and beyond.

Overall, the Original Six teams have always had (and will continue to have) timeless, iconic designs that stand the test of time. I believe they stand head and shoulders above the rest of the league. Nothing will beat an Original Six matchup on the ice with their legendary logos and sweaters. It is very possible that we could see the Blackhawks and Red Wings face off in the Stanley Cup Final in the near future.