This is not Canada, so the Stanley Cup final is not ingrained as must-watch television. But even for the most casual fan, the upcoming series between the Penguins and Predators is going to be rife with interesting storylines when it begins Monday in Pittsburgh. Here are the top five reasons to watch:
Repeat Pens
The Penguins are trying to defend their title and become the first back-to-back Stanley Cup champion since the Red Wings (1997-98). Since 2009, just four teams have won the previous eight Cups: Bruins (2011), Penguins (2009, 2016), Kings (2012, 2014) and Blackhawks (2010, 2013, 2015). As far as pseudo-dynasties go, the Penguins have been contenders for almost a decade, and if they get to three Cups, they might be the best team of them all.
Sid the Kid
Remember when Sidney Crosby still carried that childish moniker? The 29-year-old Penguins captain has spent a long while establishing himself as one of the best players in NHL history and that legacy would be cemented even more with a third Cup. With the Oilers’ wunderkind Connor McDavid close on his heels as the best in the game, this would be more proof Sid still is on the throne.
Star Subban
There are few players in the league who play with as much enthusiasm and overt joy as Predators defenseman P.K. Subban. After the blockbuster summer trade that sent him from Montreal to Nashville, Subban has excelled while still catching flack for his exuberant demeanor. He also is one of the few black faces among a sea of white, bringing some much-needed diversity to a sport that is far too monochrome.
Music City
There are few NHL host cities more fun than Nashville. The Predators only have been in the league since 1998, but their fan base has grown roots fast, and Bridgestone Arena right in downtown might have been the most exciting building in the league through the first three rounds. It also helps when stars such as Carrie Underwood and Keith Urban are available to sing the national anthem.
Remembering Lavy
Predators coach Peter Laviolette is from Massachusetts and is second on the all-time wins list for American-born coaches, behind only the older John Tortorella. Laviolette coached the Islanders from 2001-03 and brought that franchise out of the depths of despair before being fired. He then coached the Hurricanes to a Stanley Cup title in 2006 (with current Islanders head coach Doug Weight on the team) and also took the Flyers to the Cup finals in 2010.