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Prior to the 1995-1996 season, the Colorado Avalanche were known as the
Quebec Nordiques, which was founded in 1972, being adopted by the NHL from
the WHA in 1979. The Nordiques enjoyed very little success, winning the
division championship in 1986. Due to the recurring last-place finishes,
the Nordiques were granted first overall picks in three straight seasons,
picking the likes of Eric Lindros, Joe Sakic, Mats Sundin, Owen Nolan, and
Adam Foote. The Eric Lindros epic resulted in his being dealt to the
Philadelphia Flyers, in return the Nordiques acquired big names such as
Ron Hextall and Peter Forsberg, along with $15 million. The Avalanche have
enjoyed vast amounts of success, winning the Stanley Cup in the 1995-1996
season, as well as the 2000-2001 season, providing the likes of Ray
Bourque his ultimate dream, and Patrick Roy's third Conn
Smythe Trophy - a current record.
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