The NHL will partner with Fanatics for the 2026-27 season to introduce “Hometown Remix” alternate uniforms for all 32 clubs. While rumors circulate regarding specific designs, it is worth revisiting some of the most distinctive third jerseys in league history.
The tradition of alternate sweaters extends further back than many realize; the Boston Bruins, for instance, wore them as early as the 1940s. In the 21st century, they have become a significant revenue stream, with most teams now cycling through multiple options beyond their standard home and road sets.
Which discontinued alternates merit a return to the ice?
This list excludes jerseys that served as primary uniforms before returning as alternates—such as the Coyotes’ Kachina, the Flames’ “Blasty,” or the Devils’ “Christmas Tree” sweaters. Reverse Retro, Stadium Series, and similar specialty designs are also omitted; only official third jerseys from franchise history qualify.
Here are the top five candidates for revival:
5. Pittsburgh Penguins Powder Blue (2008–11)
The Penguins’ powder blue alternates are unlikely to return due to organizational superstition regarding the color. However, the shade remains rare across the league and deserves a place in the modern rotation. Originally debuted during the 2008 Winter Classic, the design served as the team’s third jersey for several seasons.
4. Florida Panthers Navy Blue (1998–2003)
Florida’s inaugural alternate sweater remains its finest. The deep navy base provided a striking contrast to the vibrant red and gold trim of the standard home jersey. The Panthers have a history of ambitious alternate designs—ranging from the solid navy-and-sky blue set (2009–11) to the acclaimed 2022–23 Reverse Retros—making it fitting that their first third jersey eventually became the primary dark uniform from 2007 to 2011.
3. Dallas Stars “Skyline” Green (2021–25)
Dallas recently retired this set, but the neon green “Skyline” jersey accomplished exactly what an alternate should: it commanded attention. Few NHL teams have ever embraced green as a primary color, and the Stars elevated the concept with a design that felt like a genuine home run.
2. Ottawa Senators Black “O” (2011–17)
Ottawa perfectly captured the spirit of its franchise history with the black “O” logo. The organization clearly recognized the design’s strength, subsequently releasing white (2014) and red (2017) variations. The Senators have repeatedly returned to this well, confirming its enduring appeal.
1. Montreal Canadiens Blue Stripes (2006–07)
This remains the only instance in Canadiens history where the iconic blue chest stripe—synonymous with the red home sweater—was applied to the white uniform. The result was a masterclass in restraint. Montreal has experimented heavily with alternates over the past two decades, yet only the 2016 Winter Classic jersey, cut from the same cloth, approaches the elegance of this one-off design.
