The Curse of the Octopus

Detroit's most sacred playoff tradition met its match in a stunning Stanley Cup Final upset. For one series, the magic died on the ice.

• The greatest tradition in hockey was suddenly ringing hollow.

• The creature was more than a mascot; it was a prophecy.

• No amount of lore could solve the puzzle of the trap.

• That year, the octopus wasn't a blessing — it was a curse.

01. The Ritual Betrayed

02. An Omen of Victory

But in 1995, prophecy met a perfect system. The underdog New Jersey Devils, coached by...

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03. The Trap Is Set

04. A Legend Inverted

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01. The Ritual Betrayed

02. An Omen of Victory

But in 1995, prophecy met a perfect system. The underdog New Jersey Devils, coached by...

Click again — Open details →

03. The Trap Is Set

04. A Legend Inverted

Click a snapshot to focus it. Click again to open details.