Top 10 Most Popular NHL Teams

Hockey fans are some of the most passionate in all of sports. From the die-hard supporters who have stuck with their team for generations to the newer fans just discovering the thrill of the game, everyone has an opinion on which NHL teams stand out the most.

But which teams are truly the most popular? That's what this list is all about.

Here, fans have weighed in, voting for the teams they believe deserve the top spots. Some are drawn to legendary franchises with decades of history and championship banners hanging from the rafters. Others rally behind exciting young teams on the rise, drawn in by electrifying talent and a bright future. And then there are the teams with the most dedicated fan bases, where win or lose, the arena is always packed, and the energy is unmatched.

Popularity in the NHL isn't just about championships. It's about loyalty, tradition, and the unforgettable moments that bring fans back season after season. Whether it's an Original Six team with a century of history or a newer franchise, every team has a story.

The Top Ten

  1. Pittsburgh Penguins

    The Pittsburgh Penguins, commonly known as the Pens, are a professional ice hockey team based in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. They compete in the National Hockey League (NHL) as part of the Metropolitan Division in the Eastern Conference. The Penguins are one of two NHL teams in Pennsylvania, with the other... read more

    They are the face of the NHL. When you think of a hockey star, you think of Sidney Crosby. The average Joe who does not watch hockey knows who Sidney Crosby is. With the 2016 championship, it's great for the game and league because they are so popular, and they look like they could be the next Chicago Blackhawks. A modern-day dynasty is the way for the Pens.

    Legendary owner willing to spend money, legendary captain willing to take less money, good overall talent, solid fan base support, creative GM, players still listening to coach (as of now). But the clock is ticking on the team's top talent on the wrong side of 30. The window is closing in 3 years as younger teams continue to improve.

  2. Boston Bruins

    The Boston Bruins are a professional ice hockey team based in Boston, Massachusetts. The Bruins compete in the National Hockey League as a member club of the league's Eastern Conference Atlantic Division.

    The Bruins traded skinny for muscles, high tops for skates, parties for games, and their social life for hockey. They will never ever trade hockey for anything. It's as simple as this: hockey and the Boston Bruins are their lives.

    We are just getting started if you look at the core players, so we will be fighting for the top prize for years to come. Hopefully, we can be as successful as it appears. Great loyalty, great team prestige, and great history. What more could you ask for?

  3. Detroit Red Wings

    The Detroit Red Wings are a professional ice hockey team based in Detroit, Michigan. They compete in the Atlantic Division of the Eastern Conference of the National Hockey League. The Red Wings are one of the Original Six franchises of the NHL and have a storied history with multiple Stanley Cup victories... read more

    One of the greatest NHL teams of all time is the Detroit Red Wings. Gordie Howe, Ted Lindsay, Sergei Fedorov, Henrik Zetterberg, Chris Osgood, and Alex Delvecchio all have something in common: they were not just great players, but they were all at one point in their careers Red Wings that brought multiple Stanley Cups to Detroit. They aren't doing very well right now, but, as I have shown with the players listed above, they have had a history of creating good rosters that mesh well together and produce results.

    Original 6. The most successful US-based franchise with 11 cups and over 20 finals appearances. They revolutionized the pro game in the '90s with the Russian Five lineups. They've slightly fallen off in the last few years but still boast 22 consecutive playoff berths and counting.

  4. Montreal Canadiens

    The Montreal Canadiens (French: Les Canadiens de Montréal) are a professional ice hockey team based in Montreal, Quebec. They compete in the National Hockey League (NHL) as part of the Atlantic Division of the Eastern Conference. Founded in 1909, they are the oldest continuously operating professional... read more

    All this is just about opinions, but for me, there are no other teams than the Montreal Canadiens. When I see at some games that the Canadiens are visitors, the crowd makes more noise when the Canadiens score than when the home team scores. I'm thinking that I'm not the only one loving it.

    The Montreal Canadiens have always been my favorite team. I have been a follower since forever and am proud to say I saw them when they were only one of 6, and the thrill of watching them play in the Montreal Forum was something I shall never forget. They will always be number 1 with me.

  5. Quebec Nordiques

    The Quebec Nordiques were a professional ice hockey team based in Quebec City, Quebec. They played in the World Hockey Association from 1972 to 1979, then joined the National Hockey League from 1979 until 1995. The franchise was relocated to Denver, Colorado in May 1995 and became the Colorado Avalanche... read more

    Still one of the best-selling teams in the entire NHL, 21 years later. With a rich history and still beloved by fans all over, the Nordiques will come back, and you know it!

    When a team gone for 21 years is more popular than some existing franchises, it certainly means something.

    Bring back the old Montreal-Quebec confrontations. These games were among the best rivalries in sports.

  6. Toronto Maple Leafs

    The Toronto Maple Leafs, officially the Toronto Maple Leaf Hockey Club and often simply referred to as the Leafs, are a professional ice hockey team based in Toronto, Ontario. They compete in the National Hockey League (NHL) as a member of the Atlantic Division of the Eastern Conference. The team was... read more

    Despite the fact the Leafs haven't had a great team in a very long time, their fan base is probably the largest and most loyal in the NHL. With the Air Canada Centre sold out every night, and the fact that you basically have to inherit season tickets, there is no doubt the Leafs have one of the largest, if not the largest, fan base in the entire NHL. The revenue from Leafs merchandise is also a serious indicator of the number of fans. If you know the NHL, then you know the Leafs are one of, if not the biggest teams in terms of fan base.

    I think they are a very popular team and have a great fan base. The fact that the fans cheer them on so well gives them an advantage when they're at home.

    I'm not saying they're the Blue Jays because fans travel everywhere with them, but the point is that in the future, the fans and the team will go a long way.

  7. Chicago Blackhawks

    The Chicago Blackhawks are a professional ice hockey team based in Chicago, Illinois. They compete in the Central Division of the Western Conference in the National Hockey League. Since their founding in 1926, the Blackhawks have won six Stanley Cup championships, with their most recent title coming... read more

    The Chicago Blackhawks are a team with a rich history. I grew up with this team from the '90s until 2011, when I stopped growing up and became an adult. This team, with its six cups, is not the only thing that makes them well-known. They are actually a very symbolic team. Seriously, go to OKC and ask people about hockey teams. Of the teams mentioned, the Blackhawks will be said the most.

    A symbolic team with a great fan base. In 99-00, we were still selling out games, even though the numbers were declining. We had the incredible White Sox and the Bulls while laughing at the Cubs. (I like both the Sox and Cubs). We have also made many historical achievements on and off the ice. This Original Six club was held back by an owner who used Chicago as a bad player stock for the also-owned Red Wings.

    Also, the rivalries. We are the Blackhawks. This team will forever hold a place in my heart and in the hearts of every hockey fan. Haters are just confused admirers.

  8. New York Rangers

    The New York Rangers are a professional ice hockey team based in New York City. They compete in the National Hockey League (NHL) as part of the Metropolitan Division in the Eastern Conference.

    The Rangers play their home games at Madison Square Garden in Manhattan, which they share with the New... read more

    A team whose fans hold them accountable for their performance, yet always have their support. New York is a city of hardworking people who expect results. Results don't always come in the form of a win, but when a team plays their heart out, this is what the fans love. This is why they rely on the Rangers to be their passion and obsession!

    Everywhere I go in the US, I always see Rangers fans wearing their colors. I can't say that for any other team in any sport, except the Yankees. I used to see the "B" hats (Red Sox) everywhere in the Northeast, but as soon as I left the area, their fandom died with it. Today, two kids at a trampoline place in NC approached me (I was wearing my Rangers T-shirt) to tell me how the Rangers rule. That is one of the many reasons Rangers fans are the best.

  9. San Jose Sharks

    The San Jose Sharks are a professional ice hockey team based in San Jose, California. They are members of the Pacific Division of the Western Conference of the National Hockey League. The team was founded in 1991 and plays its home games at the SAP Center at San Jose, often referred to as the Shark Tank... read more

    You might wonder how Northern California got an NHL team. They had one back in the '70s with the California Seals, but that went about as well as hockey in Atlanta. Fast forward to the early '90s, and Gordon Gund, the owner of the Cleveland Cavaliers, decides to put a team in the southern Bay Area. The next thing you know, the San Jose Sharks are filling the Shark Tank night after night.

    Sure, the first few years weren't that great, but that's what you get with an expansion team. Next thing you know, they made the playoffs for ten straight years, a feat that only rivals the Detroit Red Wings. Sure, they have a reputation as a playoff choke, but there's no denying the fan base is rabid for a Stanley Cup. Add to that the fact that they have a pretty good three-way rivalry with the Los Angeles Kings and the Anaheim Ducks, and you'll be hard-pressed to find a team as great as the San Jose Sharks.

  10. Edmonton Oilers

    The Edmonton Oilers are a professional ice hockey team based in Edmonton, Alberta. They compete in the Pacific Division of the Western Conference in the National Hockey League. The team has a rich history, including multiple Stanley Cup victories during the 1980s with Wayne Gretzky.

    Happy this is above the stupid Kings. I will always love this team, no matter how bad or good they are. I don't care if they are the worst or second worst. I will always have faith in this team.

    A new and fresh vision from non-alumni should be able to put the on-ice talent to good use. Acquiring a strong defensive guard could see the Oilers return to the glory days of the '80s.

    This team is my local team. They have had Wayne Gretzky in the past, and with their several prospects, they are almost guaranteed to begin their glory days once again, especially after the addition of Connor McDavid. They have a great team.

    11. The Newcomers
  11. ?

    Vegas Golden Knights

    The Vegas Golden Knights are a professional ice hockey team based in the Las Vegas metropolitan area. They compete in the National Hockey League as part of the Pacific Division in the Western Conference. The team was established in 2017 as an expansion franchise.... read more

    Um, are you guys serious?! They're an expansion team that broke countless records in their inaugural season, including making it to the Stanley Cup Finals. They have one of the best goalies in the league. They were Nevada's only professional sports team. They should be much, much higher on this list. Go Knights Go!

    They have a great fanbase and have had unbelievable success in their first few years. It's not your typical hockey market, but they sure have a good atmosphere.

    This team might win the cup in their first year, and if so, they will be the best team ever created. Or at least that is what some people think.

  12. ?

    Kansas City Scouts

    13. The Contenders

  13. Los Angeles Kings

    The Los Angeles Kings are a professional ice hockey team based in Los Angeles, California. They are members of the Pacific Division of the Western Conference of the National Hockey League. The team was founded in 1967 and has won two Stanley Cup championships, in 2012 and 2014.

    A blue-collar team that actually draws hardcore blue-collar fans, yes, they do exist in Southern California, and this is the team that they support. The only team that never wants, especially the fans, any support from Hollywood. It's the same 18,000 plus night after night, dressed in black, and they show up whether the visiting team is Ottawa, Florida, or Carolina. It does not matter if the Kings have lost ten in a row. They still pack them in.

    The reason is that this is the hardest working team in the NHL, the team that never quits playing, and hits like the old Bruins of 40 years ago. They're the only Northeast team that plays in the West. They've captured fans around the country who appreciate old-school hockey. If you like defense and hard work, this is your team.

  14. Tampa Bay Lightning

    The Tampa Bay Lightning are a professional ice hockey team based in Tampa, Florida. They compete in the Atlantic Division of the Eastern Conference of the National Hockey League. The Lightning have won three Stanley Cup championships during the 2003-04, 2019-20, and 2020-21 seasons.

    Everyone is crying about this team being on here because they're a Southern United States team. Most of the players are Russian or Canadian themselves. They DESERVE to be listed here. The Lightning are a very fine and well-coached hockey team. Crybabies beware. We are back-to-back Stanley Cup winners, we're in the playoffs AGAIN, and we're coming for you and your team. Go Bolts!

    Sure, they may be underdogs, a young team, and not "The Best," but the fans believe in them, and that's what counts.

    Four straight sellout seasons and a record for most consecutive sellouts for a Tampa team.

  15. Calgary Flames

    The Calgary Flames are a professional ice hockey team based in Calgary, Alberta, Canada. They are members of the Pacific Division of the Western Conference in the National Hockey League. The team was founded in 1972 and relocated from Atlanta to Calgary in 1980.

    Even though they aren't doing great this season, Calgary is arguably one of the most fan-supported teams in the NHL. The hockey world is huge in Calgary, and the Flames definitely should be in the top 3 on this list. Go Flames go!

    They're doing well, not as great as last season, but it's just the start. Calgary is only a city with just over a million people, less than many others, even though it has a lot more than Vancouver. Most other hockey fans don't see them as relevant, but #nevergiveup.

    My childhood team.

    Grew up in L.A., but hated the Kings, and Calgary was a rival in the early '80s. Loved Calgary ever since. Got one Stanley Cup, need another. Go Flames!

  16. Washington Capitals

    The Washington Capitals, commonly known as the Caps, are a professional ice hockey team based in Washington, D.C. They compete in the National Hockey League as a member of the Metropolitan Division of the Eastern Conference. The team is owned by Monumental Sports and Entertainment, led by Ted Leonsis.... read more

    Caps fans are completely underrated. They pack the Verizon Center every game and show up to plenty of road games. Washington is one of the best hockey towns in this country, and I don't care what anyone says. LET'S GO CAPS!

    The Capitals are my life. My bedroom won the Capitals decorating contest (3rd place, I believe), and the Verizon Center had over 117 consecutive sellouts, which is an NHL record! And by the way, Crosby sucks.

    I live in Virginia, and the ONLY (repeat: ONLY) NHL teams that people like here are the Penguins and the Caps. And there are 10 or 20 Caps fans for every Penguins fan. GO CAPS!

  17. Winnipeg Jets

    The Winnipeg Jets are a professional ice hockey team based in Winnipeg, Manitoba. They are members of the Central Division in the Western Conference of the National Hockey League. The current franchise was established in 1999 and relocated to Winnipeg in 2011 from Atlanta, where they were previously... read more

    Wow. They should be in the top ten, no doubt.

    Jets fans are some of the best I'm aware of. From a die-hard New York Rangers fan.

    It seems only the Winnipeggers really like this climate, but all the players seem to buy into the team effort.

    This should be WAY higher than 25th. Winnipeg has got to be in the top ten.

  18. Ottawa Senators

    The Ottawa Senators (French: Sénateurs d'Ottawa) are a professional ice hockey team based in Ottawa, Ontario. They compete in the National Hockey League (NHL) as a member of the Atlantic Division in the Eastern Conference. The Senators play their home games at the Canadian Tire Centre, an 18,652-seat... read more

    Go Sens Go!

    Love the Senators so much! I am the biggest Senators fan there is!

    The Ottawa Senators are the best team in the NHL.

    They try hard despite the drama.

  19. Vancouver Canucks

    The Vancouver Canucks are a professional ice hockey team based in Vancouver, British Columbia. They compete in the Pacific Division of the Western Conference of the National Hockey League. The team was founded in 1970 and has appeared in the Stanley Cup Finals three times.

    Haven't won a Stanley Cup, but have had some amazing players wear their logo. Pavel Bure, Trevor Linden, Henrik and Daniel Sedin, Roberto Luongo. They have a solid roster full of great young talent, such as Elias Pettersson, Bo Horvat, Quinn Hughes, Thatcher Demko, and Brock Boeser. They came close in 1994 and 2011 to winning a Stanley Cup, as well as in 1982. But with this young team, there is a chance to produce a cup-winning team that will finally bring Lord Stanley to Vancouver.

    They boast the support of an immensely passionate fan base, as evidenced by the numerous Canucks jerseys visible during their road games. They have also consistently been in the standings' upper tier for the last several seasons. All that remains is for them to finally claim the Stanley Cup.

  20. St. Louis Blues

    The St. Louis Blues are a professional ice hockey team based in St. Louis, Missouri. They are members of the Central Division in the Western Conference of the National Hockey League. The Blues won their first Stanley Cup championship in 2019.

    I've traveled extensively, and I find that what hockey means to St. Louis is something most markets cannot understand. Not just their beloved Blues, but the ever-growing youth programs there. Save for maybe Detroit and parts of the Northeast, you really see nothing else like it south of the border.

    For a city that has never seen the Cup, the fans in the region could not be more enthusiastic for their team. Some places, such as Winnipeg, Portland (WHL), and St. Louis, just don't get the respect they've earned as great hockey markets.

    P.S. Nashville is still new to the sport but is well on the way to becoming a solid market.

    I am a Blues fan, and I believe that the fans will always be there, clapping, screaming, and yelling, LET'S GO BLUES. No matter how much the team changes, even if we lose a game, we will be proud of the players.

    If I were an NHL team, I would choose to be the Blues because our light will never die. I believe that the Blues fans are the best.

  21. Dallas Stars

    The Dallas Stars are a professional ice hockey team based in Dallas, Texas. They are members of the Central Division of the Western Conference of the National Hockey League. The team was established in 1967 as the Minnesota North Stars before relocating to Dallas in 1993.

    Hockey in Dallas is great! Awesome fans!

    My second favorite team! Go Stars!

  22. Columbus Blue Jackets

    The Columbus Blue Jackets are a professional ice hockey team based in Columbus, Ohio. They compete in the Metropolitan Division of the Eastern Conference in the National Hockey League. The team was established as an expansion franchise in 2000 and began play in the 2000-2001 NHL season.

    Most don't know them since they're new and in the building stage. But with that recent 15-game win streak, they're getting more popular.

  23. Phoenix Coyotes

    They should be moved to Quebec, where they will actually be appreciated.

    Hockey does not belong in Arizona, Florida, California, or Georgia.

    There's potential there now that the rut is fading.

  24. New York Islanders

    The New York Islanders are a professional ice hockey team based in the New York metropolitan area. They are members of the Metropolitan Division of the Eastern Conference in the National Hockey League (NHL). The team has won four consecutive Stanley Cups from 1980 to 1983.

    The only hockey team to accomplish 19 consecutive playoff series wins and to win four Stanley Cups after eight years of being an expansion team. They are also the last sports franchise to win four straight titles. Long live the dynasty!

    The only sports team based on Long Island and one of the most iconic dynasties of all time.

    The fan base is unmatched, the team is good, and it has a rich history among expansion teams.

  25. Buffalo Sabres

    The Buffalo Sabres are a professional ice hockey team based in Buffalo, New York. They are members of the Atlantic Division of the Eastern Conference of the National Hockey League (NHL). The team was established in 1970 and has made multiple playoff appearances.

    Typical Boston fan can't spell, haha, but you see lots of fans at road games. Right now, I'm watching them at Nashville, and there are mostly Sabres fans. If you watch them at the Panthers, you see more Sabres fans.

    In Sweden, we mostly like the Buffalo Sabres. They have a certain style that other teams struggle to copy. Don't know how 98% of the voters failed to notice that.

    I'm shocked they are so low on this list! I live in South Carolina and have met Buffalo fans here (not many, but you can find them). I get NHL Center Ice every year, so I won't miss a game. Can't wait to make the trip for a home game soon!

  26. Anaheim Ducks

    The Anaheim Ducks are a professional ice hockey team based in Anaheim, California. They compete in the National Hockey League (NHL) as a member of the Pacific Division of the Western Conference. Since their inception in 1993, the Ducks have played their home games at the Honda Center. The team was originally... read more

    If you don't like Anaheim, well then, Duck you! The fans here are die-hard, unlike the Kings fans who only come around when they make the playoffs!

    I think the Ducks are great! I see why they were the best team in the league.

    The Ducks may have gone 0 and 4, but we will win the Stanley Cup next year!

  27. Philadelphia Flyers

    The Philadelphia Flyers are a professional ice hockey team based in Philadelphia. They are members of the Metropolitan Division of the Eastern Conference of the National Hockey League. The team was established in 1967 as part of the NHL's first expansion.

    Go Flyers! We actually like our team, unlike some people. I'm talking to you, Arizona and Florida. Anyone who likes the Penguins or the Rangers, no. Your teams are bad to us. You may be good at hockey, but we still don't like you. Flyers bleed orange and black, and as long as you're a fan, you're part of the family.

    When I go to Flyers games, people are always nice to me. And one thing's for sure: most of us are NOT nuts. Also, we should be #1. Put on any game where the Flyers are playing in a different city (not Philly, because they're everywhere!) and you will see orange and black jerseys sporting our logo. Bye, fellow Flyers fans, and bye, other guys!

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