Historical Analysis of NHL’s Longest Losing Streaks

The Unfortunate Run of the San Jose Sharks in 2023-24

The Sharks commenced the 2023-24 season with an unprecedented 11 consecutive losses. This was followed by a 12-match losing streak that spanned from December 15, 2023, to January 9, 2024. Throughout the season, the Sharks recorded four unique losing streaks, each consisting of at least nine games. This record places the Sharks in the unfortunate position of having six of the top 50 longest losing streaks in NHL history – the most for any franchise.

Setting Records: The Longest Losing Streaks in NHL History

Insights into the NHL’s history reveal some of the longest losing streaks ever recorded. The record is held by the 1974-75 Washington Capitals and the 1992-93 San Jose Sharks, both teams suffered through a 17-game losing streak. Following closely are the 1930-31 Philadelphia Quakers with a 15-game losing streak.

Other notable mentions include the 14-game losing streaks by the 2014-15 Buffalo Sabres, 1992-93 Ottawa Senators, 1990-91 Quebec Nordiques, 1981-82 Detroit Red Wings, and the 1975-76 Kansas City Scouts. Additionally, the 2023-24 San Jose Sharks are part of a group of teams that have recorded a 12-game losing streak.

Longest Losing Streaks: The 13-Game and 12-Game Records

The 13-game losing streak record includes the 2003-04 Pittsburgh Penguins and the 1997-98 Florida Panthers. The San Jose Sharks, however, appear three times in this category during the 1992-93 season. The 12-game losing streak record is shared by teams such as the 1988-89 New York Islanders and the 1975-76 Washington Capitals, with the 2023-24 San Jose Sharks recently joining this list.