The NHL playoffs are approaching, and 16 teams have secured their spots. For fans of these teams, it’s an exciting time, but for fans of teams that didn’t make it, it’s time to choose a bandwagon team to support. This allows fans to experience the highs and lows of following a team through the playoffs. The article ranks the 16 playoff teams based on their bandwagon potential, from the worst options to the best.
Starting with the defending champions, the Vegas Golden Knights are not a popular choice due to their perceived front-running status. The Tampa Bay Lightning, despite their strong roster, may not offer the underdog appeal that some bandwagon fans seek. The Los Angeles Kings are seen as a potential underdog, but their chances may be slim. The New York Islanders have a resilient fan base but struggle with offensive production, making them a challenging bandwagon team.
The Calgary Flames present an exciting bandwagon option with star players and a chance for redemption after a disappointing previous season. The New York Rangers, boasting a strong record, are a solid choice with plenty of star power. The Toronto Maple Leafs, while historically unsuccessful in the playoffs, offer potential for a compelling underdog story. The Nashville Predators have a captivating journey and could surprise as a dark horse contender.
The Boston Bruins, led by the charismatic Brad Marchand, provide an entertaining bandwagon option for fans. The Carolina Hurricanes, one of the best teams in the conference, have a fun roster and forward-thinking management. The Winnipeg Jets, once considered a rebuilding team, have defied expectations and offer a feel-good story for bandwagon fans. Finally, the Dallas Stars emerge as the top bandwagon choice with a skilled and entertaining team, led by Joe Pavelski and Ryan Suter. Ultimately, the Stars offer the best combination of talent and compelling storylines for fans to rally behind.
