The 1894 AHA season ended precariously. Four of the five competing clubs - the Montreal AAA, Montreal Victorias, Ottawa Capitals and Quebec - finished with 5-3-0 records and shares of first place. The determination of a champion, and thus the winner of the Stanley Cup, created many problems for the league's governors who simply could not come to terms on a solution suitable to all involved. With two of the four finalists from Montreal, home-ice advantage became the major issue of contention. After Quebec ultimately withdrew, it was decided that all playoff games would be staged in Montreal and that Ottawa would be given a bye into the finals since it was the sole "road" team.
In what must be termed the first Stanley Cup playoff game ever, the two Montreal clubs battled to a 3-2 decision in favor of the defending champions, who then downed Ottawa in the finale.
Forward Billy Barlow, who finished third overall with eight goals in eight regular-season games, scored twice in each postseason contest as the AAA successfully defended its title.
1893-94 - Montreal AAA - Herb Collins, Allan Cameron, George James, Billy Barlow, Clare Mussen, Archie Hodgson, E. O'Brien, Haviland Routh, Alex Irving, James Stewart, A.C. (Toad) Wand, A.B. Kingan, E. O'Brien.
SCORES
| Mar. 17 | Mtl. Victorias | 2 | at Mtl. AAA | 3 |
| Mar. 22 | Ottawa | 1 | at Mtl. AAA | 3 |