NHL Playoffs 2025: Canadian fans increasingly back any home team in Stanley Cup Playoffs
Canadian NHL fans (via Getty Images)
As the NHL Stanley Cup Playoffs take centre stage, a fresh Angus Reid Institute survey finds Canadian pride surging as the vast majority of hockey enthusiasts rally behind whichever Canadian team might lead them to victory and capture the Cup. The poll, carried out between April 21 and 24, reveals 71 percent of Canadian fans now root for any national team, a big increase from before.
Canadian NHL fans unite in national pride as drought persists without Stanley Cup
As per the Angus Reid Institute's report, support for a Canadian team to win the Stanley Cup is currently at its all-time high in almost a decade. In 2016, it was felt by just 57 percent of the fans. In 2024, it increased to 64 percent, and now in 2025, it stands at 71 percent.
The remarks of U.S. President Donald Trump — joking that Canada should be America's 51st state — seem to have awakened strong nationalist sentiments. Canadian supporters, sensitive to any perceived insult, are directing their pride into the NHL playoffs. The survey suggests that hockey is more than a hobby; it's become a vehicle for Canadians to express their national identity.
Toronto Maple Leafs, Winnipeg Jets, and Edmonton Oilers top fan loyalty
When polled, which team they think will end Canada's Stanley Cup drought, 22 percent of the survey selected the Toronto Maple Leafs, even with their recent playoff disappointment. The Presidents' Trophy-winning Winnipeg Jets got 19 percent. The Edmonton Oilers, who were one game away from the Cup last spring, received 16 percent.
The Montreal Canadiens received 14 percent backing, followed by the Ottawa Senators and Vancouver Canucks with three percent each. The Calgary Flames lagged behind at two percent. Surprisingly, two percent of Canadians hold the opinion that no Canadian team will ever again win the Cup.
Survey highlights growing sense of national unity through hockey
Angus Reid Institute's website poll was done among 1,607 Canadian adults who form part of the Angus Reid Forum. As background, this many samples include ±2 percentage points margin of error, 19 times in every 20.
Also read:
'I was afraid, I was excited, I was emotional, I was crying at the end': rookie goaltender Jakub Dobes shone in Game 3 of the Montreal Canadiens
The numbers decisively speak to a common theme: when patriotism gets pumped up, Canadians become more eager to set aside their club allegiance during the playoffs to watch a Canadian team raise the Stanley Cup — something the nation has been denied since 1993. As national sentiments grow stronger, especially after U.S. President Donald Trump's controversial remarks, the NHL playoff race has turned into more than a hockey competition — it's about national pride.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Time of India
an hour ago
- Time of India
Vera Larsson, wife of Adam Larsson's sunset outing with NHL wives redefine hockey's off-ice season with beauty, bonding, and bold celebration
Vera Larsson's sunset outing with NHL wives (Credit: Instagram/@verasoderberg) As the Oilers charge through the Stanley Cup playoffs, Lauren Kyle, wife of Connor McDavid created a sun-drenched moment of her own. She hosted a bachelorette trip in Greece for her best friend, Celeste Desjardins, a Canadian actress and the fiancée of Oilers star Leon Draisaitl. The images, shared widely on social media. This revealed a celebration rooted in closeness and aesthetics, with sea-blue backdrops and golden light, the bachelorette wasn't just an event. It was an expression of where these women stand in the world of hockey today. Vera Larsson's sunset outing captures quiet togetherness At the same time, Vera Larsson, wife of Seattle Kraken defenseman Adam Larsson, offered a similarly meaningful post. Known online as @verasoderberg , she shared a fleeting Instagram Story showing a sunset outing where food, friendship, and summer light framed the evening. The image, though simple, reflected the same calm intimacy seen in the Greek celebration. A long table, scattered plates, and relaxed company under open sky; the setting wasn't about spectacle. It was about presence. There was no performance, just a natural moment of gathering during a time when most eyes are on the playoffs. While Adam isn't in the Oilers' current run, Vera's post still felt deeply in tune with the cultural beat of hockey right now. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Giao dịch CFD với công nghệ và tốc độ tốt hơn IC Markets Đăng ký Undo The mood matched the broader emotional tone: one of warmth, style, and subtle celebration. Vera Larsson's sunset outing with NHL wives (Credit: Instagram/@verasoderberg) The new face of the playoff season beyond the rink W hat both Lauren and Vera's moments show is that hockey's season doesn't end at the rink doors. These off-ice expressions are part of the sport's evolving identity. As they reflect a growing space for emotion, lifestyle, and community, this is defined not just by who scores, but by how people close to the game live and connect. Whether it's the Greek islands or a sunset meal. By the coast, these moments are being documented with intention and elegance. They're shaping how fans understand the full scope of the season, beyond goals and jerseys, into the lives, loves, and aesthetics of those surrounding the game. Read more: Jake Walman thriving as key defensive force for Oilers in Cup Final as coach says 'we wouldn't be here if it wasn't for Jake' As the Oilers continue their pursuit of the Cup, NHL wives like Lauren Kyle, wife of Connor McDavid and Vera Larsson, wife of Adam Larsson are writing their version of the season. Through bachelorette escapes and softly lit outings, they've captured something lasting; the beauty of hockey's off-ice world, where the real wins are in shared time, personal rituals, and the glow of unforgettable moments.
Time of India
2 hours ago
- Time of India
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander vs Pascal Siakam net worth: Comparing financial status, contract details and salary of 2025 MVPs
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander vs Pascal Siakam Net Worth: Comparing Financial Status, Contract Details and Salary of 2025 MVPs (Image Source: Getty Images) Two Canadian basketball stars, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Pascal Siakam, have drawn major attention with their remarkable 2025 MVP-level performances. Shai's skilful leadership with the Oklahoma City Thunder has quickly placed him among the league's rising stars. At the same time, Pascal's hard work and championship background with the Indiana Pacers showcase his strong presence on the court. Off the court, both players have made smart decisions to grow their wealth. Now, let's have a look at the fortune of the 2025 MVPs. What is Shai Gilgeous-Alexander's net worth in 2025? According to Forbes, as of May 2025, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander is said to possess almost $61.2 million. His NBA paychecks, sponsorships, and shrewd business decisions create this massive fortune. Back in August 2021, he signed a five-year deal with the Oklahoma City Thunder. About $179.3 million this deal was valued; average per year was over $35 million. He is receiving only $35.8 million in salary during the 2024-25 NBA season. The numbers were listed by Spotrac, a trusted site for athlete contracts. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, nevertheless, makes money not only from basketball. In 2024, he signed a $15 million a year contract with Converse, who also launched his own shoe, the "Shai 001." by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Why Didn't Anyone Tell You About This Power Saver? elecTrick - Save upto 80% on Power Bill Pre-Order Undo Moreover, representing major brands including Nike, AT&T, and Canada Goose, he has about $18 million a year in endorsements combined. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander was born on July 12, 1998, in Toronto, Canada. Hamilton Heights Christian Academy in Chattanooga saw his high school Basketball play. He then announced for the 2018 NBA Draft after only one season at the University of Kentucky. With the eleventh overall selection, the Charlotte Hornets picked him, but his time there was brief. On draft night, he was sent to the Los Angeles Clippers. Then, a year later, he was sent to the Oklahoma City Thunder, where his performance actually flourished. What is Pascal Siakam's net worth in 2025? Pascal Siakam, who is currently playing for the Indiana Pacers, has also built a strong wealth. By 2025, it was estimated at about $ 45 million based on celebrity network data. By 2023, he signed a four-year deal with the Toronto Raptors, valued at $ 136.9 million. He was traded to the Indiana Pacers in January 2024 and now earns about $ 34.2 million a year with this agreement. Though Shai Gilgeous-Alexander may have more brand sponsorships overall, Pascal Siakam's endorsements are still effective. He has partnered with New Balance and Tangerine Bank among other businesses. His endorsement income is thought to be between $4 million and $5 million annually. Pascal Siakam was born in Douala, Cameroon April 2, 1994. Later moved to New Mexico State University to play Collegiate Basketball. Selected 27th place in the Toronto Raptors in the NBA draft in 2016. By 2020, he had become an NBA All-Star. Pascal Siakam summarized his attitude perfectly after a crucial playoff victory with the Indiana Pacers in May 2025: 'Every year is a fresh opportunity. His remarks show the same passion and work ethic that have allowed him to develop as a person and as a player. I only want to improve.' Though both are stars, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander edges ahead in both salary and brand value, shaping his place as not just an MVP but also a top-earning celebrity in the league. Also Read: Former NBA player says LeBron James should consider retirement: 'He ain't getting no fifth ring unless he buys one'
Time of India
3 hours ago
- Time of India
Connor McDavid's wife, Lauren Kyle, shares an intimate game night moment with Mikayla Nurse during the Stanley Cup Final
Connor McDavid's wife, Lauren Kyle, shares an intimate game night moment with Mikayla Nurse during the Stanley Cup Final (Credit: Instagram/@laurenkyle1) As the Edmonton Oilers fight their way through the Stanley Cup Final, it's not just the players feeling the tension. On Friday night, Lauren Kyle, wife of Connor McDavid, posted an Instagram story capturing a low-key viewing session with Mikayla Nurse, wife of fellow Oilers alternate captain Darnell Nurse. The image, quietly elegant, showed a phone playing the game perched against a cushion with a glass of wine nearby and the soft glow of a city skyline in the distance. The caption read, "a view with a view," tagging Mikayla Nurse and adding blue and orange hearts. An understated but powerful nod to the Oilers' colors, it wasn't just about watching a game; it was about holding onto moments of calm in a high-stakes atmosphere, sharing a bond beyond the rink. Lauren Kyle and Mikayla Nurse offer a rare look at the personal side of Stanley Cup pressure The Instagram story quickly drew attention from fans and the media. Both Kyle and Nurse have stood solidly behind their partners throughout the Oilers' playoff journey. These behind-the-scenes glimpses offer something more than just fan service. As they humanize the players and reveal the emotional weight that accompanies every win or loss. There were no roaring crowds in that story, no locker room celebrations. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like She Was Everyone's Dream Girl In 90's, This Is Her Recently Boite A Scoop Undo Just two women watching the game, wine glass in hand, phone screen glowing, city lights shining. The support network behind the Oilers' deep playoff run As the Oilers chase Stanley Cup glory, the role of families cannot be overlooked. Connor McDavid and Darnell Nurse are not only leaders on the ice, but they rely heavily on support from home. The visual Lauren Kyle shared, though just a fleeting social media post, underlines how deeply intertwined personal and professional lives become during moments like this. Read more: Gustav Lindstrom leaves the Canadiens as he signs a five-year deal in Sweden in a shocking career turn Their quiet solidarity, framed by flickering lights and smartphone screens, might not win trophies, but it speaks just as loudly.
