So, you think Canada’s sports scene is all maple syrup and hockey? Well, buckle up, sport, because Canada’s sports history is a lot more colorful (and controversial) than you might think. Beyond the iconic Maple Leafs and Canadiens, we’ve had some seriously cool teams that have, for one reason or another, disappeared. Whether it’s because of financial woes, market size, or just plain bad timing, these teams made their mark and deserve to be remembered. Let’s take a trip down memory lane and revisit some of Canada’s lost teams.
1. Toronto Huskies (1946-1947)
The Toronto Huskies weren’t just the first professional basketball team in Canada—they were the first in North America to play in the newly-formed Basketball Association of America (the league that would become the NBA). That's right. This short-lived squad only lasted one season before fading into the history books, but they made a lasting impression on the sport. It’s like the OG of Canadian basketball. Sadly, they couldn’t quite make it in the big city, but hey, they were ahead of their time. If you see any Huskies merch, consider it a piece of Canadian hoops history.
2. Vancouver Grizzlies (1995-2001)
The Vancouver Grizzlies—remember them? You should. Despite only playing in the NBA for six seasons, they’ve left a nostalgic mark on the hearts of hoops fans. With the likes of Vancouver native Steve Francis (who didn't play for the team but was a key draft pick) and big names like Shareef Abdur-Rahim, the Grizzlies had their moments, even if they couldn’t quite capture the love of the city. Eventually, the franchise packed up and became the Memphis Grizzlies, leaving Vancouver fans in the dust. But there’s still a certain sweetness to those teal jerseys, isn't there? A little piece of '90s basketball that we’ll always remember fondly.
3. Montreal Expos (1969-2004)
The Montreal Expos were Canada’s pride and joy in Major League Baseball for over three decades. They were so close to greatness—hello, 1994 season, when they had the best record in baseball before the strike wiped out the World Series. Who can forget the iconic Expos cap? Even though Montreal couldn’t keep their team, it didn’t stop their love for the sport. The Expos eventually moved to Washington, D.C., becoming the Nationals, but the city still cherishes their baseball history. We all still dream of a time when baseball returns to Montreal... maybe one day?
4. Ottawa Rough Riders (1876-1996)
Not to be confused with the Saskatchewan Roughriders, the Ottawa Rough Riders were the pride of the nation's capital for over a century. They were an iconic CFL team with plenty of memorable moments, including winning Grey Cups and giving Ottawa football fans a lot to cheer about. But as time went on, the team struggled both on and off the field. After the 1996 season, the Rough Riders were no more, and the CFL took a break from Ottawa until the RedBlacks came onto the scene in 2014. Ottawa Rough Riders fans still carry that torch, though. Never forget.
5. Quebec Nordiques (1972-1995)
Ah, the Quebec Nordiques. Before the Avalanche became a powerhouse in Colorado, the Nordiques were the NHL’s pride of Quebec City. They were known for their fierce rivalry with the Montreal Canadiens and for bringing up legendary players like Peter Forsberg and Joe Sakic. Despite the team's success, the economic difficulties in Quebec led to the eventual move to Colorado. Quebecers were left heartbroken, and though the city has been hoping for a return ever since, the Nordiques still hold a special place in the hearts of hockey fans in Quebec. The dream of bringing the team back is still alive and well!
6. Toronto Blizzard (1971-1984)
Before Toronto FC, there was the Toronto Blizzard. For over a decade, this soccer team played in the North American Soccer League (NASL) and helped bring soccer into the mainstream in Canada. The Blizzard were known for their star players and their boisterous fanbase. Despite their success, the team was eventually dissolved in 1984 due to financial troubles. But let’s not forget the Toronto Blizzard's contribution to Canadian soccer culture. Without them, who knows if Toronto would have the love affair with soccer that we see today?
7. Calgary Centennials (1973-1977)
The Calgary Centennials are one of the lesser-known teams in Canadian sports history. They were a junior ice hockey team in the WHL that played for just a few years before being rebranded as the Calgary Cowboys. Despite a short life, their time in the WHL helped set the stage for Calgary’s future success in hockey. Their flashy, fun logo and ’70s vibe still linger as a reminder of an era that may have been brief but was certainly unforgettable.
So, Why Do We Care?
Maybe you never saw these teams play, but they’re a part of Canada’s sports DNA. These lost teams weren’t just failures—they were stepping stones for Canadian sports culture. They helped plant the seeds for the sports scene we know and love today. Sure, some of them left us too soon, but their legacy lives on in the jerseys, the memories, and the stories we share.
And hey, let’s not forget: we still have the Blue Jays, Raptors, Canadiens, and so many other amazing teams keeping the Canadian sports flag flying high. But next time you hear about the Grizzlies or the Expos, remember there’s a bit of Canadian magic in those names. They were here—and we won’t let them be forgotten.
