If you’re a newcomer to the world of hockey or just looking for a new team to root for, sorting through all the options can be overwhelming. With so many teams and fan bases out there, how do you know which one is right for you?
Luckily, we’re here to help you find your perfect match. Whether you’re drawn to a team’s history, style of play, or home city, there are plenty of factors that make each franchise unique.
By taking some time to understand what you want in a hockey team and doing a bit of research, you can narrow down your choices and find the team that will give you the greatest sense of pride and joy every time they hit the ice.
“Hockey is more than just a sport; it’s a culture and a way of life. Choosing the right team to root for can unlock a whole world of passion and excitement you never knew existed. Let us guide you on your journey to finding the perfect match.”
So whether you’re a die-hard fan looking for a change of pace or a curious newcomer seeking out a new obsession, read on to discover how to choose the best hockey team for you!
Discover Your Hockey Personality
If you are new to hockey or unsure which team to root for, taking our quiz can help you determine your hockey personality. Answer a few simple questions and find out which NHL team is right for you.
Take the Quiz
- Question 1: What kind of weather do you prefer?
- a) Cold and snowy
- b) Warm and sunny
- Question 2: How do you like to spend your free time?
- a) Outdoors doing physical activities
- b) Indoors relaxing with a good book or movie
- Question 3: What’s your favorite type of music?
- a) Rock or alternative
- b) Pop or hip-hop
- Question 4: Do you enjoy being part of a large group or smaller clique?
- a) Large group
- b) Smaller clique
- Question 5: Which country would you most like to visit?
- a) Canada
- b) France
Interpret Your Results
If you answered mostly A’s:
“You are a fan of tradition and grit. You appreciate hard work and determination in players. You should be rooting for the original six teams such as the Boston Bruins, Chicago Blackhawks, Montreal Canadiens, New York Rangers, Detroit Red Wings, and the Toronto Maple Leafs.”
If you answered mostly B’s:
“You are a fan of flashy plays and fast-paced action. You appreciate skill and talent in players. You should be rooting for the younger teams with flair such as the Vegas Golden Knights, Colorado Avalanche, Tampa Bay Lightning, Washington Capitals, or Toronto Maple Leafs.”
Now that you know which team to root for based on your personality, grab some snacks, put on your favorite player’s jersey, and get ready to cheer them on throughout the season!
Get to Know the Teams
Hockey is a fantastic sport with many incredible teams to choose from. If you’re looking for a new hockey team to cheer on, there are several things that you should consider before making your decision.
Research the Roster
One of the most important things to consider when choosing a hockey team is the roster. You’ll want to look at the players’ skills and experience level to determine if they have what it takes to win. Take some time to research each player and learn about their strengths and weaknesses. This will give you a better understanding of the team’s overall potential.
“A great hockey player plays where the puck is going to be.” -Wayne Gretzky
Understand the Coach’s Strategy
The coach of a hockey team plays a significant role in its success. Different coaches have different strategies, so it’s essential to understand the coach’s style and philosophy. Does the coach prioritize defense or offense? Are they more strategic or aggressive in their gameplay? Knowing these details can help you decide which team fits your desired playstyle.
“Hockey is not just a game; it’s a way of life.” -Unknown
Explore the Team’s Statistics
Analyze the team’s stats to get a better picture of their performance. Look at their records from previous seasons, how they perform against certain opponents, and how often do they score goals. This information will provide valuable insights into the team’s playing style, talent, and potential success rate.
“Good players go where the puck is. Great players go where the puck is meant to be.” -Orr
Learn about the Team’s Culture
A team’s culture reflects how they work as a unit, both in and out of the rink. Every hockey team has its unique culture that dictates the players’ behavior towards each other and their fans. Learning about the team culture can help you relate to the players better and feel more invested in rooting for them.
“You miss 100% of the shots you don’t take.” -Wayne Gretzky
There are many great teams in the world of hockey, so it may be challenging to decide which one is right for you. However, with some research and investigation, you’ll find a team that knots every tick box in your criteria and gets you excited to be an avid supporter until the end.
Choose Based on Location
Hello hockey fans! If you’re new to the sport or just looking for a team to root for, location is an important factor to consider. Here are some tips for choosing a team based on location:
Consider the Proximity to Your Home
If you’re lucky enough to live near a professional hockey team, that’s often a good place to start rooting for your home team. Attending games in person is one of the best ways to experience the atmosphere and passion that comes with being a fan.
For example, if you live in New York City, you have two NHL teams to choose from – the Rangers and the Islanders. The Rangers play at Madison Square Garden in Manhattan, while the Islanders play at the Barclays Center in Brooklyn. Both arenas offer unique experiences, but depending on where you live, one may be easier to get to than the other.
Look at the City’s History and Culture
Hockey teams often represent more than just a sport – they can be a symbol of a city’s culture and history. Take Montreal, for instance. The Canadiens have been around since 1909 and are considered one of the most successful franchises in NHL history. They’ve won 24 Stanley Cup championships and their “CH” logo has become synonymous with the city itself.
Similarly, the Detroit Red Wings are known as “Hockeytown” because of the deep roots the sport has in the area. The Red Wings have won 11 Stanley Cups and play at Little Caesars Arena, which also hosts concerts and other events. If you’re looking for a team with a rich legacy and passionate fanbase, these historic teams are worth considering.
Check out the Arena’s Atmosphere
One aspect that sets hockey apart from other sports is the intense atmosphere at games. The energy of the crowd can make or break a game, and being in the arena during a playoff run or rivalry game is truly exhilarating. Before choosing a team to root for, research their arena’s reputation and what it’s like to attend a game there.
The Las Vegas Golden Knights are one example of an expansion team that quickly developed a strong fanbase and dynamic home ice advantage at T-Mobile Arena. On the East Coast, Boston Bruins fans proudly sing “Sweet Caroline” by Neil Diamond during games to rally behind their team at TD Garden. Experiencing these unique traditions firsthand can add another layer of excitement to following your new favorite team.
Research the Local Fanbase
No matter where you live, it’s important to know who you’ll be rooting alongside as a fan. Researching a team’s local fanbase can give insight into the culture surrounding the team and help determine if you identify with their values and passion for the game.
For example, the Nashville Predators have been praised for their game day experience and passionate fan base dubbed the “Smashville” scene. Fans come together before and after games on Broadway Street to enjoy live music and food and drink specials, creating a vibrant community around the team. Seeing how a team’s fans support their squad both inside and outside of the arena can help solidify your decision on which team to cheer for.
So whether you’re a seasoned hockey fan looking for a new squad or just getting into the sport, finding the right team to root for can seem daunting. By taking location into account and doing some research on teams’ history, fan culture, and the arena experience, you’ll find yourself cheering alongside fellow fans in no time!
Find Your Favorite Players
If you’re looking for a hockey team to root for, one of the best ways to make that decision is by following your favorite players. Whether it’s their style of play or their personalities off the ice, finding a player you love can be the gateway to becoming a loyal fan of their team.
One player who has become a fan favorite around the league is Connor McDavid of the Edmonton Oilers. The young superstar has been breaking records and wowing fans since he entered the NHL in 2015. His speed and skill on the ice are unmatched by many other players in the league, making him a must-watch every time he takes the ice.
Another player who has captured the hearts of fans is P.K. Subban of the New Jersey Devils. Not only is he an incredible defenseman, but his charitable efforts off the ice have made him a beloved figure in many communities.
No matter who your favorite player is, following them can lead you to discover new teams and find like-minded fans to connect with.
Explore the League’s Top Scorers
If you’re someone who loves watching high-scoring games, then exploring the league’s top scorers could help you find the perfect hockey team to root for.
Currently leading the league in points is Leon Draisaitl of the Edmonton Oilers. He’s been tearing up the ice alongside teammate Connor McDavid, creating one of the most dynamic duos in the NHL. Watching these two play together can bring excitement to any game they’re in.
Another top scorer this season is David Pastrnak of the Boston Bruins. With his quick hands and lethal shot, Pastrnak has become a scoring machine for the Bruins. He’s often compared to former Bruin greats like Bobby Orr and Phil Esposito, making him a favorite among Boston fans.
Checking out the top scorers can not only lead you to discover new teams but also give you a chance to see some of the league’s most exciting players in action.
Follow Your Favorite Team’s Stars
If you already have a team that you’re interested in rooting for, following their star players can help deepen your connection to the team and create a more meaningful fan experience.
For example, if you’re a fan of the Chicago Blackhawks, then keeping an eye on Patrick Kane is a must. The dynamic forward has been one of the best players in the NHL over the last decade, leading the Blackhawks to three Stanley Cup championships during his time with the team.
Another player who has become synonymous with his team is Alex Ovechkin of the Washington Capitals. With his incredible goal-scoring ability and passionate play, Ovechkin has become the face of the franchise. He’s led the Capitals to their first-ever championship in 2018 and continues to be one of the league’s most dominant players.
Focusing on a team’s stars allows fans to develop a deeper understanding of the history and culture of a particular team. It lets fans connect with each other by sharing stories about their favorite players and helps create a sense of community around a shared passion.
Consider the Team’s History and Achievements
If you’re trying to decide which hockey team to root for, one important factor to consider is the team’s history and achievements. The following are some things to look for when researching a team:
Review the Team’s Championship Wins
A team with multiple championship wins may be more appealing than one that has never won a championship. Some of the most successful teams in NHL history include the Montreal Canadiens (with 24 Stanley Cup titles), the Toronto Maple Leafs (13 titles), and the Detroit Red Wings (11 titles).
You should also look beyond just the number of championships and consider how recently a team has won. A team that won five championships in the 1970s might not be as exciting to root for today if they haven’t won anything since.
Learn about the Team’s Iconic Moments
Certain moments throughout a team’s history can capture the imagination of fans and create memorable experiences. For example, Chicago Blackhawks fans will never forget Patrick Kane’s game-winning goal in overtime during Game 6 of the 2010 Stanley Cup finals. Similarly, Pittsburgh Penguins fans cherish Mario Lemieux’s ‘five goals, five different ways’ performance from 1988.
You don’t necessarily need to become a fan of a team based solely on their iconic moments, but these events can help you understand the team’s culture and why it matters to its supporters.
If you want to learn about a team’s iconic moments and its overall history, there are many online resources available. You can visit the official website of the NHL or individual team websites to read about past seasons and notable players. Fan forums and social media groups can also provide insight into what it means to be a fan of a specific team.
Deciding which hockey team to root for is a personal choice that depends on your own preferences and interests. By considering a team’s history and achievements, particularly championship wins and iconic moments, you can begin to understand what makes each franchise unique and exciting to follow.
“Hockey captures the essence of Canadian experience in the New World. In a land so inescapably and inhospitably cold, hockey is the chance of life, and an affirmation that despite the deathly chill of winter we are alive.” -Stephen Leacock
Join the Fanbase and Experience the Culture
If you’re new to hockey, choosing a team to root for can be a daunting task. A great way to start is by joining the fanbase of a team that you have some connection with or interest in. This will help you experience the culture and atmosphere surrounding the team.
Attend a Live Game
The excitement and energy of attending a live hockey game cannot be replicated from watching it on TV. Attending a game will give you the opportunity to see your potential favorite team play in person, and interact with other fans. You may also get the chance to participate in fan traditions unique to that particular team.
“Live games are a unique cultural experience unlike any other form of entertainment.” -Lucas Rixon
Participate in Fan Events and Activities
Fan events and activities provide great opportunities to connect with fellow fans and immerse yourself in the team’s culture. Many teams hold events such as meet-and-greets, autograph signings, and viewing parties which allow fans to interact with players and other fans while showing support for their team.
“Fan events are a great way for fans to come together and show their passion for their team.” -Mike Smith, NHL Commissioner
Join Online Fan Communities
Nowadays, there are numerous online communities dedicated to specific sports teams where fans can connect and discuss news, trades, performance, and more. Joining these communities and participating in discussions can help build camaraderie and knowledge about your potential favorite team.
“Online communities provide a platform for fans from all over the world to connect and share their love for their favorite teams.” -Avery Johnson, CEO of Sports Social Media
Joining the fanbase of a hockey team and experiencing the culture surrounding it can be an exciting and fulfilling way to become involved in the sport. Attending live games, participating in fan events, and joining online communities are great ways to connect with fellow fans and immerse yourself in the team’s unique atmosphere.
Frequently Asked Questions
What factors should I consider when choosing a hockey team to root for?
When choosing a hockey team to root for, consider the team’s history, their current players, their performance, and their fan base. You may also want to consider their style of play and whether their values align with your own.
Should I root for a team based on their location or their performance?
Whether you root for a team based on their location or performance depends on your personal preferences. If you value local pride and community, location may be important. However, if you value winning and success, performance should be your main factor.
What are the most popular and successful hockey teams to root for?
The most popular and successful hockey teams to root for include the Boston Bruins, Chicago Blackhawks, Detroit Red Wings, Montreal Canadiens, and Toronto Maple Leafs. These teams have a long history of success and large fan bases.
Is it better to root for a team with a long history or a newer team?
Whether to root for a team with a long history or a newer team depends on your personal preferences. A team with a long history may have established traditions and a loyal fan base, while a newer team may have a fresh perspective and modern approach.
Should I base my decision on the team’s players or their overall culture and fanbase?
When choosing a hockey team to root for, it’s important to consider both the team’s players and their overall culture and fanbase. Players can change over time, but a team’s culture and fanbase can create a lasting connection and sense of community.