The National Hockey League (NHL) is a professional ice hockey league in North America, consisting of 32 teams. It was founded in 1917 and is one of the major professional sports leagues in the United States and Canada. The league is divided into two conferences: the Eastern Conference and the Western Conference, each containing two divisions. The NHL season typically runs from October to April, followed by the playoffs, which culminate in the Stanley Cup Finals. The league features some of the best ice hockey players in the world, showcasing a fast-paced and exciting sport that attracts millions of fans.