I don't why but I tend to really care about the fan involvement and excitement level in the cities when I'm cheering for teams in the playoffs.
So for example, Montreal's great for me as their fans are off the hook, probably the most dedicated and hockey mad fans in the NHL, and there's just a different buzz around playoff games when a Canadian team is playing, imo.
So for me, there's a lot of positives in the teams left.
Montreal: Mentioned above
New York: Biggest city in the States, despite being the 4th biggest sport in New York, the city goes crazy for the Rangers when they're on a playoff run, and more specifically the Stanley Cup finals. If they make it, it's huge for the NHL.
LA: Same idea as New York, only not as much excitement in the city. Was a little disappointed when they won the Cup, thought it would be a lot crazier. They ended up having a very small turnout for the parade and are still considered a fringe team/sport in the LA sports market. But still, another trip to the finals can only improve things, and it's great for the NHL.
Chicago: Again, huge market, city gets fully invested in the team during runs. 2mil fans at cup parades which is just insane. Plus, as much as I want new teams and fanbases to experience championships, it would be pretty cool to see a franchise in the salary cap era win 3 cups in 5 years.
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