Part 2/7:
In the world of sports, attention often follows gimmicks and fleeting narratives. The NHL found itself riding a wave of popularity, driven by the heightened interest that emerged from the contentious atmosphere surrounding the U.S.-Canada game. The phenomenon, while beneficial in the short term, raised questions about the league's long-term appeal. Sports enthusiasts began speculating if the NHL could eclipse other major leagues like the NBA and Major League Baseball, but skepticism loomed large.
The comparison to WWE and observations regarding other leagues, such as the WNBA, highlighted that for hockey to remain significant, it might heavily depend on external factors rather than establishing a solid fan base rooted in the sport itself.