Every NHL playoff season brings stories of veterans chasing their first Stanley Cup. These are the “old guys without a Cup,” affectionately known as OGWAC. Fans root for them regardless of team loyalty, inspired by moments like Paul Maurice lifting the Cup in 2024 after decades behind the bench or Ray Bourque receiving it from Joe Sakic in 2001.[1][2]
As the 2025-26 season heads toward the postseason, several grizzled players stand out. They have logged thousands of games, battled through deep runs, but never hoisted Lord Stanley’s Mug. With teams like the Avalanche leading the odds at +290, the playoffs promise drama for these contenders.[3]
Brent Burns leads the OGWAC charge
Brent Burns, the Colorado Avalanche defenseman, tops many lists at age 41. His majestic beard and quirky personality make him a fan favorite, but it’s his longevity that defines him. Burns reached his 1,500th NHL game milestone earlier this season and is closing in on ironman records, tying Keith Yandle for second-longest consecutive games played streak.[4][5]
He came close with the Sharks in the 2016 Final and had playoff success with the Hurricanes, but the Cup eluded him. Now on the league’s top team, Burns benefits from stars like Nathan MacKinnon. The Avalanche’s dominance positions him perfectly for a storybook ending.
Burns signed a one-year deal with Colorado in July 2025, joining a blue line that’s powered their league-leading standings.[6] His recent two-goal game, including a winner, shows he’s still contributing offensively. At over 40, few players match his endurance.
Fans hope for that exhale moment like Maurice’s. If the Avs win, Burns hoisting the Cup would cap a Hall of Fame career.
The Foligno brothers’ dream in Minnesota
Nick and Marcus Foligno, forwards for the Minnesota Wild, represent a unique sibling story. At 38 and 34, they’ve combined for deep leadership experience. Nick captained Columbus and Chicago, yet his deepest playoff run was just 10 games in one season.
He famously dropped the gloves defending John Tavares against Corey Perry in Toronto’s playoffs. That grit defines him as one of hockey’s great leaders. Now reunited with brother Marcus for the first time in the NHL, they’re on a stacked Wild team chasing its first Cup.
The image of the Folignos lifting the trophy together would be iconic. Minnesota’s push adds emotional weight to their quest.
Their tenacity fits the Wild’s style. As playoffs near, this brother duo could deliver feel-good magic.
Jamie Benn’s loyalty to Dallas
Jamie Benn, the 36-year-old Stars captain, embodies franchise heartbeat. He’s spent his entire career in Dallas, leading them to the 2020 Final and recent conference finals. Signing a one-year, $1 million deal last summer shows his commitment.
As captain, Benn would skate first to grab the Cup if they win. Few would begrudge him after years of heartbreak.
His leadership shines in clutch moments. Dallas remains a contender, keeping Benn’s dream alive.
Benn’s perseverance inspires. A Cup would cement his legacy.
Ryan Reaves protects the young Sharks
Ryan Reaves, 39, brings toughness to the San Jose Sharks. Traded to them in July 2025, he sticks up for stars like Macklin Celebrini and Will Smith.[7] He scored the 2018 Western Conference finals-clincher for Vegas, but lost the Final to Washington.
The Sharks’ surprise wild-card climb makes Reaves a dark horse. Recently activated from IR, his physicality boosts their fun, up-tempo game.[8]
Fans of his past teams root for “Reavo.” An Avalanche-Sharks matchup would spotlight him.
His career enforcer role earns universal respect. Playoffs could reward his loyalty.
Mats Zuccarello’s Minnesota magic
Mats Zuccarello rounds out the Wild’s OGWAC duo. The Norwegian star reached the 2014 Final with the Rangers but lost. Now in Minnesota, he’d likely house the Cup early after captain Jared Spurgeon.
Rangers fans still adore “Zucc.” His skill at 38 keeps him vital.
Paired with the Folignos, he adds offensive flair. The Wild’s Cup hunt favors him.
A win would make history as Norway’s first Cup winner.
Honorable mentions and beyond
Corey Perry, 40, has a 2007 Cup but five Final losses since. Connor McDavid, 29, carries bridesmaid status despite elite play.
These stories heighten playoff tension. Check the full OGWAC breakdown on ESPN and 2026 playoff bracket.[9]
As races tighten, root for these veterans. Their triumphs could define the 2026 playoffs, reminding us why hockey tugs heartstrings. Who will finally sip from the Cup? The postseason will tell.
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Par Mike Jonderson
Mike Jonderson is a passionate hockey analyst and expert in advanced NHL statistics. A former college player and mathematics graduate, he combines his understanding of the game with technical expertise to develop innovative predictive models and contribute to the evolution of modern hockey analytics.