Which nhl team should i root for? With 32 teams in the National Hockey League, choosing a favorite can feel overwhelming if you’re just diving into the sport. But don’t worry! In this article, I’ll share some fun guidelines to help you find the perfect team to cheer for in the NHL, plus clear up some common misconceptions about being a fan. Let’s jump right in!
How do I choose an NHL team to root for?
Picking a team as a new hockey fan isn’t always a walk in the park, but with a few helpful tips, you’ll be ready to commit in no time!
Stick to the home team
If you’re from a vibrant city in the U.S. or Canada, chances are there’s already an NHL team representing your area. This can be the easiest way to find your team for several reasons. First off, if you love your city, it’s natural to feel pride in the team that calls it home. Plus, you’ll have the chance to attend live games and catch every match on TV without any pesky regional restrictions!
Remember, depending on where you live, you might have multiple teams to choose from. For instance, if you’re in New York, you could cheer for the New York Islanders, New York Rangers, or even the New Jersey Devils. In Los Angeles, supporting the Anaheim Ducks or the Los Angeles Kings is totally reasonable. And if you’re from Alberta, Canada, you might find yourself rooting for the Edmonton Oilers even if you reside in Calgary, home of the Flames!
Your favorite style of play
Do you love a gritty defensive showdown or a high-octane offensive game? Maybe you’re all about that physical play where players give it their all on the ice every night. The type of game you enjoy will significantly shape the team you choose to support as a newcomer to hockey.
Historically, teams have built reputations based on their playing style, so keep an eye out! For example, the Edmonton Oilers have long been celebrated for their fast-paced offensive game, trading chances with opponents and banking on their ability to outscore them—just as they did in the ’80s with legends like Wayne Gretzky and today with Connor McDavid.
On the flip side, the Minnesota Wild have been known for their patient, defensive approach, waiting for the perfect moment to strike while giving up very few chances. And let’s not forget the Boston Bruins and Philadelphia Flyers, famous for their physical, bruising style of play—known as the “Big Bad Bruins” and the “Broadstreet Bullies,” respectively.
Ultimately, what excites you most about watching hockey—whether it’s the finesse of a skilled pass or the thrill of a big hit—will undoubtedly influence the team you choose to rally behind. So get ready to dive into the action and discover the thrill of being an NHL fan!
Your Favorite Player : Which nhl team should i root for?
You might have started your hockey journey because of a standout player. Perhaps you heard about Connor McDavid’s incredible skills and couldn’t resist tuning in. Or maybe you caught wind of Alex Ovechkin’s quest to become the all-time leading goal scorer in the NHL. No matter how you got hooked, once you find a player you love, choosing an NHL team to support becomes a breeze! Many fans stick with their chosen team long after their favorite player moves on or retires, creating a lasting bond with the sport.
Recent Success or Failure
It’s totally natural to be drawn to teams that are riding high with recent success, especially if you’re new to the game. Whether you prefer to cheer for a powerhouse or root for an underdog depends on your vibe. From my experience as a hockey fan, it’s a mixed bag! Some new fans fall in love with the underdog and continue their journey with that team as they rise, while others gravitate toward the top teams, only to stick around as those teams eventually face challenges.
One thing is for sure: in the NHL’s salary cap era, consistent success is hard to come by. So, if you decide to support a top-tier team, just know they might not stay at the top for long!
Rivalries
The NHL is packed with intense rivalries that can really pull you in as a new fan. Imagine tuning into a heated matchup between two rival teams—it’s electric and definitely boosts your excitement for the game!
When we think of fierce rivalries, a few classic pairs come to mind:
- Toronto Maple Leafs vs. Boston Bruins
- Montreal Canadiens vs. Toronto Maple Leafs
- Edmonton Oilers vs. Calgary Flames
- Pittsburgh Penguins vs. Washington Capitals
- Chicago Blackhawks vs. Detroit Red Wings
These rivalries often stem from geographical proximity, but they’re also fueled by historic playoff battles that ignite passionate feelings among teams and their fans. I vividly remember the fierce rivalry between the Edmonton Oilers and Dallas Stars in the late 90s and early 2000s—those playoff clashes were nothing short of legendary! While that rivalry has faded with the NHL’s new playoff format, the intensity of those matchups still resonates with fans.
The Fan Base
A team’s fan base can have a huge impact on your decision to cheer for them. Let’s be real: who wants to support a team that plays in a half-empty, quiet arena? Instead, it’s way more fun to root for a team that consistently sells out their games and has a passionate crowd supporting them.
The vibe of a fan base varies from team to team. For instance, the Nashville Predators and Montreal Canadiens are famous for their loud and lively fans, creating an electric atmosphere that makes the arena a tough place for opponents and an absolute blast for supporters!
The Jersey or Logo
Choosing a team based on the color or design of their jersey might seem trivial, but for many new fans, it’s a crucial factor in deciding whom to cheer for. As a kid, I didn’t end up supporting the Anaheim Mighty Ducks, but I absolutely loved their logo and vibrant jersey colors. They captured my imagination!
The History of the Team
A team with a rich history and past success can be a magnet for new fans. Take the Original Six teams, like the Detroit Red Wings – their legacy draws in admirers far more than newer franchises like the Vegas Golden Knights or Columbus Blue Jackets, who are still building their stories. However, with Vegas recently clinching a Stanley Cup, they might just be changing the game!
Equally enticing are the fresh faces of teams like the Golden Knights and Seattle Kraken. There’s something thrilling about rooting for a “new” team that brings a sense of excitement and possibility!
In the end, it’s all about discovering what aspect of a team’s history resonates with you. Use that passion as a stepping stone to find your favorite NHL team – the journey is just as exciting as the destination!
