The trophy awarded to the champion of the NHL playoffs is called the Stanley Cup. This prestigious trophy has a rich history, dating back to 1893, and is one of the most coveted awards in professional ice hockey. Winning the Stanley Cup is considered the pinnacle of achievement for NHL teams and involves a playoff format in which teams compete in a series of rounds to ultimately claim the championship. The trophy is emblematic of excellence in the sport and is awarded annually following the conclusion of the playoffs.