Which are the most popular NHL teams in the history of the game?

The NHL is one of five major sports leagues in North America and is statistically the fourth most popular sport to watch behind the NFL, MLB and the NBA. There are 32 teams in the NHL, 7 in Canada and the rest in the USA. Their popularity differs enormously and can be broadly attributed to Legacy, Success, and Geography. What is the most popular NHL team?

The Nashville Predators, Dallas Stars, and St. Louis Blues are the most popular NHL teams in the country by county, according to a map powered by Vivid Seats NHL ticket sales data from 2018 to the present day. In the US, the Boston Bruins and Chicago Blackhawks are among the most popular teams by state.

Top 10 most popular NHL teams

From a national perspective, the most popular teams are the Original Six (Montreal, Toronto, Boston, New York Rangers, Chicago and Detroit) and teams who are strong Stanley Cup contenders. Below are the most popular NHL teams in 2023.

10. New York Rangers

For well over a century, the New York Rangers, established in 1926, have woven their way into the hearts of devoted fans. The Blueshirts boast four impressive Stanley Cup victories and a storied history, graced by luminaries such as Mark Messier, Brian Leetch, and Henrik Lundqvist.

Their home rink, Madison Square Garden, transcends mere architecture; it symbolises the city's resilience and power. There is nothing quite like the exhilaration of a Rangers game in New York, from the crowd's deafening roar to the symphony of skates slicing through the ice. The New York Rangers are a local sensation and one of Europe's most popular NHL teams.

9. Philadelphia Flyers

The Philadelphia Flyers are a team that injects passion and excitement onto the ice in the city of brotherly love. Founded in 1967, this beloved organization boasts a rich history, marked by two Stanley Cup victories and an impressive 39 playoff appearances.

Sporting their iconic orange and black uniforms and with the quirky mascot Gritty as a beloved fixture, the Flyers have become an integral part of the Philadelphia sports scene. They are a cornerstone of Philadelphia's sporting identity, known for bone-crushing hits, thrilling overtime victories, and the legacy of legendary players like Bobby Clarke and Eric Lindros.

8. Detroit Red Wings

With an impressive tally of 11 Stanley Cup championships, they boast a storied history and a legacy deeply rooted in excellence and with the leadership of the legendary Steve Yzerman, the Red Wings asserted their dominance over the NHL in the late 1990s and early 2000s, clinching four championships in just 11 years.

Despite recent challenges and setbacks, the team remains a cherished symbol of Detroit's unwavering resilience and determination. Their dedicated fan base continues to provide steadfast support through every game, whether the Red Wings are skating to victory or battling through a challenging season. This team consistently gives its all on the ice, embodying the spirit of Detroit.

7. Edmonton Oilers

With their dynamic duo of Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl at the helm, the Oilers have firmly established themselves as a formidable presence in the NHL. The team boasts a storied history of success, clinching five Stanley Cup titles. However, their thirst for more remains insatiable as they relentlessly pursue greatness and a return to their former glory.

Clad in the team's signature blue and orange, fervent supporters lend unwavering passion to every game at Rogers Place, transforming each event into an electrifying spectacle. The tale of the Edmonton Oilers is characterized by unyielding tenacity, steadfast dedication, and an unending quest for excellence.

6. Vancouver Canucks

From the electric atmosphere of Rogers Arena to the bustling streets adorned in the team's signature blue and green. Since their inception in 1970, the Canucks have consistently asserted themselves as a formidable presence in the hockey world.

They have clinched numerous division titles and crafted unforgettable moments, such as Pavel Bure's historic goal in Game 7 of the 1994 playoffs. Whether you are an ardent fan or a casual observer, the Vancouver Canucks have an enduring capacity to capture your heart through their unwavering dedication and boundless energy.

5. Chicago Blackhawks

The United Centre reverberates with fans' enthusiasm as the Chicago Blackhawks grace the ice, their iconic Indian head emblem proudly displayed on their jerseys. Established in 1926, the Blackhawks boast a rich and storied history, having secured six Stanley Cup championships and a roster of celebrated players, including Bobby Hull, Stan Mikita, and Jonathan Toews.

The Blackhawks continue to assert themselves as a dominant force in the NHL, driven by a passionate fan base, a formidable team, and an unwavering commitment to excellence. They embody the heart and spirit of Chicago sports, from the sheer power of Patrick Kane's slapshot to the graceful elegance of Duncan Keith's skating.

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4. Pittsburgh Penguins

Established in 1967, the Pittsburgh Penguins boast a storied history of triumph in the NHL, clinching the Stanley Cup championship five times. They achieved consecutive victories in 1991 and 1992, led by the legendary Mario Lemieux.

The Penguins' current captain, Sidney Crosby, is one of the greatest players in the sport's history. His accolades include three Hart Trophies as the league's Most Valuable Player and two Conn Smythe Trophies as the playoff's Most Valuable Player. The Penguins continue to assert themselves as a formidable presence in the NHL.

3. Boston Bruins

The Boston Bruins, established in 1924, boast a rich history of NHL dominance, characterized by their skilful play and unyielding dedication. From Bobby Orr's iconic "Flying Goal" in 1970 to their most recent journey to the Stanley Cup Final in 2019, the Bruins' indomitable spirit has captured the hearts of fans worldwide.

The Bruins are formidable on the ice, led by exceptional players such as Patrice Bergeron, Brad Marchand, and Charlie McAvoy. Their tenacity and skill make them a force to be reckoned with, solidifying their position as a top-tier team in the NHL.

2. Toronto Maple Leafs

With a storied century-long legacy, the Leafs have firmly established themselves as one of Canada's most popular NHL teams. Over the years, the Leafs have consistently showcased their prowess.

They have iconic figures such as Mats Sundin and Johnny Bower from the past and the current talents of Auston Matthews and Mitch Marner. Although challenges have marked the Leafs' journey towards the Stanley Cup, their dedicated fanbase has remained steadfast, providing unwavering support through every triumph and defeat.

1. Montreal Canadiens

The Montreal Canadiens, often called the Habs, boast an extensive history and an ardent fan base. They are the world's oldest continuously operating professional ice hockey franchise, established in 1909. The team has achieved remarkable success in the NHL, securing 24 Stanley Cup championships and making 58 playoff appearances.

Montreal residents and hockey enthusiasts deeply connect with the team's iconic red, white, and blue uniforms and the famous rallying cry, "Go Habs, Go!" Regardless of the outcome on the ice, the Montreal Canadiens remain an integral part of the city's culture and identity. They are undeniably one of the most beloved NHL franchises globally.

The list of the top ten most popular NHL teams attests to hockey’s long reputation as a sport that captivates fans worldwide. From the Montreal Canadiens, who have won 24 Stanley Cups, to the up-and-coming Vancouver Canucks, each of these clubs has carved out a special place in the hearts of its supporters.

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