NEW JERSEY VS. PITTSBURGH COLORADO VS. ST. LOUIS

Thursday, May 31 Stanley Cup finals flashbacks Mark Messier scored in Game 7 to help the New York Rangers win their first Stanley Cup since 1940. Veteran Mark Messier was brought to New York to win a Stanley Cup. Three seasons after his arrival, the captain and the Rangers delivered. After the Canucks came back from a 3-1 series deficit to force a Game 7, the 1940 demons started to surface. But the Blueshirts hung on and erased one of the longest championship droughts in the process. After the Rangers clinched their first Cup at Madison Square Garden, a fan's sign read, "Now I can die in peace." OTHER GREAT STANLEY CUP FINALS MOMENTS Flashback 1951: Maple Leafs vs. Canadiens These two teams needed overtime – every time – in deciding who would take home the Stanley Cup. Flashback 1964: Maple Leafs vs. Red Wings Toronto's Bob Baun turns in a historic performance that leads to another championship for the Maple Leafs. Flashback 1980: Islanders vs. Flyers The likeliest hero helped the Islanders erase the "chokers" label and start a surprising hockey dynasty. Flashback 1987: Flyers vs. Oilers Speed vs. brawn. Offensive explosion vs. defensive power. The Oilers are pushed to seven games thanks in part to Ron Hextall. Flashback 1993: Kings vs. Canadiens In a series that's remembered for Marty McSorley's illegal stick, Canadiens goalie Patrick Roy was unforgettable. Flashback 1994: Canucks vs. Rangers The surprising Canucks and some "curse" didn't make it easy for the Rangers to erase the 1940 demons.

ALSO SEE Stanley Cup Flashbacks: Conference finals Stanley Cup Flashbacks: Second Round Stanley Cup Flashbacks: First Round