Surge in NHL Popularity Driven by International Success

The Stanley Cup Playoffs have concluded, drawing attention to the current NHL Draft, coaching changes, and significant trades. Despite these shifts, there’s cause for celebration. Recent viewership ratings unveiled for this year’s playoffs have shown impressive figures.

According to Sports Media Watch, the Stanley Cup Playoffs broadcast on ABC, ESPN, and TNT Sports attracted an average of 1.8 million viewers. This signifies a 68% increase from last year’s numbers, marking the highest viewership since 1996 when it reached 1.56 million.

Andrei Svechnikov of the Carolina Hurricanes lifts the Stanley Cup after their victory over the Vegas Golden Knights in Game Six of the 2026 NHL Stanley Cup Final at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada, on June 14, 2026. (Bruce Bennett/Getty Images)

A pivotal factor for this rise in popularity is the recent achievements in American hockey. The U.S. men’s and women’s teams seized gold at the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan, both triumphing in overtime. The men’s victory was particularly historic, as it was their first Olympic gold since the 1980 Miracle on Ice. These successes captivated American audiences, reviving an interest in hockey.

The Olympics followed the well-received 2025 4 Nations Face-Off tournament, enhancing the appeal of the international game among U.S. audiences. The NHL’s embrace of international competition seems to be yielding positive results domestically.

U.S. players, including Brady Tkachuk, rejoice after defeating Canada in the men’s ice hockey gold medal game at the Milano Santagiulia Ice Hockey Arena during the Milano Cortina 2026 Olympics on Feb. 22, 2026. (Amber Searls/Imagn Images)

This momentum contributed to the popularity of the 2026 Stanley Cup Final between the Carolina Hurricanes and the Vegas Golden Knights. The series ranked among the top five most-watched finals ever, despite initial concerns about the teams’ geographical appeal. The games were thrilling, defying expectations and drawing substantial viewership.

The NHL aims to sustain this momentum, with a focus on continuing to promote international hockey. The announcement of the 2027 All-Star Game on Long Island underscores this strategy.

Matthew Reigle reports for OutKick.