As a passionate hockey fan, I relish this time of year, where the postseason brings a comforting sense of familiarity. The Stanley Cup playoffs are reaching their conclusion, hitting all the expected beats along the way. Unfortunately, my favorite team has already been eliminated, which means I can dive into the usual discussions and controversies that come with the playoffs. Yet, this year feels overly familiar, and that’s starting to impact the excitement.
For the first time in years, I skipped writing about the “lessons from the final four” because three of the four finalists are the same as last year. To make matters more intriguing, we are witnessing a rare Stanley Cup Final rematch. While sequels can offer thrilling narratives, this rematch threatens to disrupt one of my favorite traditions: the annual rooting guide for the 30 other fan bases. After all, we already watched Florida take on Edmonton last year. So, what’s a seasoned sportswriter to do? The answer is clear: let’s shake things up and explore new perspectives on this rematch.
While I aim to provide fresh takes for as many teams as possible, certain teams evoke strong feelings that cannot be ignored. Here’s a brief overview of those teams:
After winning their first Stanley Cup in their inaugural season, the Avalanche have a history that includes Panthers fans tossing rats in celebration. Forgiveness is not on the table here. Pick: Oilers
Last year, the Stars faced disappointment after a tough series loss. This year, despite losing even faster, the sentiment remains the same: you can once again cheer for the Panthers out of spite. Pick: Panthers
The Panthers have evolved from being the Lightning’s little brother into a formidable rival. As such, I cannot condone cheering for them. Pick: Oilers
In the realm of sports, it’s often about the journey rather than the destination, even if this post is heavily focused on the latter. Here’s how various teams might approach this rematch:
It would be amusing to see Corey Perry lose in the Stanley Cup Final for the 14th consecutive year. However, Ducks fans may feel it’s time for him to finally get that second ring. Pick: Oilers
The Hurricanes were eliminated by the Panthers in the conference finals. The subsequent antics of the Panthers’ coach regarding handshake lines made the defeat even more frustrating. Pick: Oilers
Hawks fans are divided on rooting for Seth Jones, who left Chicago under contentious circumstances. Given the Panthers’ recent success, it’s hard to cheer for them. Pick: Oilers
Bill Zito’s successful tenure as the Panthers’ GM may sting for Blue Jackets fans. Nonetheless, rooting for a former employee's success is good karma. Pick: Panthers
With Connor McDavid finally poised to win his first championship, it could enhance his leadership qualities when he eventually joins the Wild. Pick: Oilers
Given the Predators’ roster, which includes former Panthers players, it makes sense to fully embrace a hatred for Florida. Pick: Oilers
The Oilers, featuring the league’s best player, are attempting to dethrone last year’s champions, a narrative that feels all too familiar. Pick: Panthers
After being eliminated by the Panthers last year, the Rangers are looking for redemption. Historical trends indicate that when the Oilers win the Cup, the Rangers might steal their captain shortly after. Pick: Oilers
The NHL is experiencing a division between larger markets that thrive on hockey and smaller markets that attract star talent. Flyers fans should align with the Oilers. Pick: Oilers
The idea of signing Connor McDavid may be a pipe dream for the Leafs, but if he wins a Cup with Edmonton, he might seek new challenges. Pick: Oilers
Although Canucks fans typically avoid cheering for Canadian rivals, rooting for Brad Marchand is a tough pill to swallow, even if he might sign with them eventually. Pick: Panthers
Knights fans are grappling with past injustices, and while time may heal, it’s clear they have a long way to go. Pick: Panthers
Jets fans have a complicated relationship with former coach Paul Maurice, but supporting him now could be beneficial. Pick: Panthers
This section addresses teams that received a pass last year, now facing the reality of rooting for a rival in the playoffs:
Last year, Flames fans were caught between their rivals and a player who left them. However, with Matthew Tkachuk already having a ring, it’s time to embrace the rivalries again. Pick: Panthers
Here, we explore teams that may switch allegiances based on their circumstances this year:
Last year, the Sabres leaned towards the Panthers due to the Kyle Okposo factor. With him absent, cheering for Jeff Skinner, who is now in Edmonton, could bring some hockey karma. Pick: Oilers
With Ken Holland no longer leading the Oilers, Red Wings fans have the opportunity to root against them, even if it means siding with a division rival. Pick: Panthers
After enduring losses to the Oilers, rooting for the Panthers may now seem like the more appealing option. Pick: Panthers
Devils fans can rally behind Adam Henrique, who once achieved great success against the Rangers, as they cheer for him to win his ring. Pick: Oilers
With the Panthers having eliminated the Maple Leafs, Senators fans can prepare for future encounters by hating on the Panthers now. Pick: Oilers
Last year’s reasoning for supporting the Panthers is now outdated, as Patric Hornqvist has transitioned to a more traditional front office role. Pick: Oilers
Sharks fans might feel compelled to root against the Panthers due to their history with Brent Burns, solidifying their rationale. Pick: Oilers
As discussions about market advantages unfold, Kraken fans should consider supporting the Oilers to annoy their rival Canucks fans. Pick: Oilers
Should the Panthers win, it would mark another chapter of disappointment for Blues fans, making it essential to support the Oilers. Pick: Oilers
Capitals fans can look to Nate Schmidt as a reason to support the Panthers, given his history with the team. Pick: Panthers
With the Panthers now a significant threat, Bruins fans may find themselves rooting for Brad Marchand in what could be his final playoff run. Pick: Panthers
Despite any lingering sentiments, the decision remains clear: cheer against Brad Marchand. Pick: Oilers
