NHL Shatters Attendance Records: A New Era of Hockey Fandom
April 18, 2025, will be remembered as a landmark date in the history of the National Hockey League (NHL). The league has once again set a new attendance record, surpassing the 23 million mark for the first time ever. This achievement is a testament to the growing popularity of hockey and the league’s ability to captivate fans across North America and beyond.
According to the NHL’s report released on Friday, the league welcomed a staggering 23,014,458 fans during the 1,312-game regular season. This impressive figure represents 96.9% capacity across the 32 teams in the league. The Montreal Canadiens played a significant role in this achievement, boasting 41 home sellouts with crowds exceeding 21,000. It’s clear that the Canadiens’ fan base is as passionate as ever, contributing significantly to the league’s overall success.
This marks the third consecutive time that the 108-year-old NHL has broken attendance records. In the 2022-23 season, the league attracted 22.4 million fans, and last season, that number rose to 22.9 million. The upward trend in attendance is a positive sign for the league, indicating that hockey is becoming more popular and accessible to fans worldwide.
One of the highlights of the season was the successful return of international competition. The 4 Nations Face-Off, held in Montreal and Boston, drew an average of more than 19,000 fans per game. This event not only showcased the talent of international teams but also demonstrated the global appeal of hockey.
Throughout the season, 36 venues hosted regular-season games, each contributing to the league’s record-breaking attendance. Among these venues, two stood out for their unique settings and massive crowds. Wrigley Field hosted the Winter Classic, a beloved tradition that brings hockey to iconic outdoor locations. Meanwhile, Ohio Stadium in Columbus hosted the league’s other outdoor game, the Stadium Series. This game attracted the biggest crowd of the season, with 94,571 fans in attendance, making it the second-largest crowd in NHL history.
- The NHL’s attendance record of 23,014,458 fans is a testament to the league’s growing popularity.
- Montreal Canadiens led the league with 41 home sellouts, each drawing over 21,000 fans.
- The 4 Nations Face-Off in Montreal and Boston averaged over 19,000 fans per game.
- Ohio Stadium in Columbus hosted the largest crowd of the season with 94,571 fans.
As the NHL continues to grow and evolve, it’s clear that the league is entering a new era of hockey fandom. The record-breaking attendance figures are a reflection of the league’s efforts to engage fans and create memorable experiences both on and off the ice. With the continued support of passionate fans, the NHL is poised for even greater success in the years to come.
Originally Written by: ESPN.com
