Hockey fans are a passionate bunch. They’ll defend their team to the death, scream at referees like they’re auditioning for Wicked, and engage in Twitter beefs that last longer than some players’ careers. But not all fanbases are fueled by pure chaos. Some are… dare I say… nice?
Now, “nice” is subjective in the NHL. It can mean “pleasant to chat with” or simply “not threatening to fight you in a Tim Hortons parking lot.” So, we’re ranking the 15 nicest NHL fanbases—because not every hockey town is out for blood.
15. Vegas Golden Knights
The Golden Knights’ fans are like Vegas itself: fun, flashy, and full of energy. Sure, they’ve been spoiled with success from the start, but they still act like they just won the lottery every time they see ice. A little over-the-top? Maybe. But they’re way too busy throwing glitter in the air to be mean.
14. Minnesota Wild
It’s literally called the “State of Hockey,” and yet, Wild fans remain shockingly polite. They’ll chat you up about high school hockey, apologize if they bump into you, and never gloat (even though they could, because Minnesota basically breeds NHL talent).
13. Seattle Kraken
New to the NHL, but already making a case for the league’s nicest fans. Kraken fans are a mix of lifelong hockey lovers and people who just learned what offside means, and you know what? They’re having a blast. Zero gatekeeping. They just want to watch their sea monster team do cool things.
12. Buffalo Sabres
Buffalo fans? Nice? Yes! Years of suffering have humbled them into some of the most loyal and supportive fans in hockey. They should be bitter, but instead, they welcome fellow fans with open arms (and possibly some wings).
11. Dallas Stars
Southern hospitality is alive and well in Dallas. These fans love their hockey, but they’re not out here trying to start a war. They’ll buy you a beer, tell you about that one time they saw Mike Modano at a gas station, and carry on their way.
10. Ottawa Senators
The Sens haven’t had the best luck over the years, but their fans take it in stride. No angry mobs here—just folks who love their team, politely endure heartbreak, and occasionally throw a burger on the ice (RIP, Hamburglar run).
9. Los Angeles Kings
LA hockey fans are too chill to be mean. They’ve got beaches, In-N-Out, and actual celebrities sitting in their arena. Hockey is fun, but if they lose? Oh well, time to hit the beach. Hard to be mad when the sun is shining 300 days a year.
8. Columbus Blue Jackets
CBJ fans are like golden retrievers—loyal, energetic, and just happy to be here. They fully embrace the “underdog” role and love their team no matter what. Plus, they get bonus points for their inexplicable cannon obsession.
7. St. Louis Blues
After years of disappointment, the Blues finally won a Cup in 2019, and instead of turning into insufferable monsters, their fans celebrated like their Midwestern hearts depended on it. No bragging, no trash talk—just pure joy (and a lot of Gloria).
6. Tampa Bay Lightning
Sure, winning helps, but Bolts fans aren’t obnoxious about it. They’ll happily talk hockey with you, offer you a seat on their boat, and then remind you—very politely—that they have more Cups than your team in recent years.
5. Winnipeg Jets
Jets fans are the definition of “small but mighty.” They love their team with a fiery passion, but they aren’t the type to throw hands in the concourse. Instead, they’ll just start a “True North” chant and hype up their cold little city like it’s paradise.
4. Carolina Hurricanes
Hockey in North Carolina? Absolutely. The Caniacs are loud, fun, and love their team in a wholesome, tailgating-in-the-parking-lot kind of way. Plus, they embrace the Storm Surge, which means they’re down for good vibes only.
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3. Vancouver Canucks
This might be controversial (given certain moments in Canucks history), but hear me out—most Vancouver fans are just laid-back, good-natured folks who love their team. They’ll apologize if they step on your foot, then debate goaltending with you over sushi.
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2. Montreal Canadiens
Wait, what? Montreal fans?? Hear me out. Habs fans are passionate, yes, but they’re also some of the most respectful and knowledgeable fans in the game. They might roast your French pronunciation, but they’ll also buy you a beer and talk hockey all night.
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1. Nashville Predators
It’s not even close—Preds fans are the nicest in the NHL. They throw catfish for fun, belt out “Friends in Low Places” like a national anthem, and welcome everyone to Smashville like they’re family. Hockey meets country hospitality, and somehow, it just works.
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