In the dynamic world of professional sports, the NHL stands out not just for its thrilling games but also for its creative ways to engage fans and attract sponsors. One big reason for the NHL's success in sponsorship is how it embraces technology to make games more exciting for fans, whether through analytics, sports betting, or interactive experiences. For instance, during the Stanley Cup finals, fans got to enjoy digitally enhanced dashboards and 3D goal re-creations in NHL Blast on Roblox. Plus, the league has teamed up with tech giants like Verizon, Sportradar, Amazon, and Apple to bring even more innovation to the game.
As we explore the NHL's top 10 most valuable teams of 2024, it's clear that the blend of technology, sponsorship, and financial investments has reshaped the league in significant ways. Let's take a closer look at what's driving the soaring valuations of these teams and what it means for the future of the NHL.
Toronto Maple Leafs is the most valuable team in the NHL.
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Top 10 Most Valuable NHL Teams 2024
Despite their last Stanley Cup victory dating back to 1967, the Maple Leafs boast a valuation of $150 million higher than the second-ranked New York Rangers, standing at $2.65 billion.
Against this backdrop of technological advancements and fan-focused initiatives, NHL teams are seeing their values skyrocket. Recent deals and investments underscore the league's popularity and economic potential. Take, for example, the recent purchase of a 5% stake in Maple Leaf Sports and Entertainment (MLSE) by the Ontario Municipal Employees Retirement System (OMERS). This deal, which included a 20% ownership of Kilmer Sports from Larry Tanenbaum, valued the parent company of the Toronto Maple Leafs, the NBA's Toronto Raptors, and MLS's Toronto FC at an incredible $8.4 billion. These eye-popping numbers not only highlight the financial strength of NHL teams but also hint at the exciting opportunities ahead for the league. Here is the list:
| Rank | Team | Value | 1-Year Change | Operating Income | Owners |
| 1 | Toronto Maple Leafs | $2.80 | 40% | $127 | Bell Canada, Rogers Communications, Larry Tanenbaum |
| 2 | New York Rangers | $2.65 | 20% | $69 | Madison Square Garden Sports |
| 3 | Montreal Canadiens | $2.30 | 24% | $99 | Molson Family |
| 4 | Los Angeles Kings | $2.00 | 54% | $108 | Philip Anschutz |
| 5 | Boston Bruins | $1.90 | 36% | $57 | Jeremy Jacobs |
| 6 | Chicago Blackhawks | $1.87 | 25% | $96 | Rocky Wirtz |
| 7 | Edmonton Oilers | $1.85 | 45% | $122 | Daryl Katz |
| 8 | Philadelphia Flyers | $1.65 | 32% | $53 | Comcast |
| 9 | Washington Capitals | $1.60 | 33% | $74 | Ted Leonsis |
| 10 | New York Islanders | $1.55 | 52% | $30 | Jon Ledecky, Scott Malkin |
Meanwhile, the Los Angeles Kings ascended to the fourth position in the ranking, surpassing both the Boston Bruins and the Chicago Blackhawks with a valuation of $2 billion. Owned by billionaire Philip Anschutz, who also holds ownership of Crypto.com Arena through his company, AEG Worldwide, the Kings have recently concluded a two-phase renovation of the arena, with a focus on premium spaces catering to the affluent L.A. community. Notably, the arena serves as the home venue for both the NBA's Lakers and Clippers, commanding top prices for its suites and club seating. In the previous season, the Kings generated revenue totalling $279 million, with an operating income of $108 million, including AEG's portion of arena proceeds, marking the third-highest figures in both categories across the NHL.\
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