A new poll shows that Canada’s growing sense of national unity is now reflecting in the country’s love for hockey. During this year’s NHL Stanley Cup playoffs, a huge number of Canadian fans are not just cheering for their own favourite teams, but for any Canadian team to bring the Cup home.
Poll Shows Strong Support for Canadian Teams
According to a survey by the non-profit Angus Reid Institute, 71 percent of Canadian hockey fans said they are supporting any Canadian team to win the Stanley Cup this year. This is a rise from 64 percent in 2024 and 57 percent back in 2016.
This increase suggests that more Canadians are feeling united and proud, even when it comes to cheering in sports.
Trump’s Comments Stir National Pride
Part of this rise in Canadian unity could be due to recent remarks made by U.S. President Donald Trump, who has joked several times about making Canada the 51st state of America. These comments have not gone down well with many Canadians, who feel even more determined to show pride in their country — especially through their favourite sport, hockey.
Favourite Canadian Teams to Win the Cup
While many are happy to support any Canadian team, the poll also found specific favourites:
- 30 percent of fans are backing the Toronto Maple Leafs.
- 30 percent are cheering for the Montreal Canadiens.
- The Edmonton Oilers came third with 18 percent support.
- The Winnipeg Jets followed with 15 percent.
- The Ottawa Senators earned six percent of the support.
Which Team Will End Canada’s Cup Drought?
When asked who will actually break Canada’s long Cup drought, fans shared their guesses:
- 22 percent believe the Maple Leafs will finally win it.
- 19 percent think the Jets will do it, despite them winning the Presidents’ Trophy this season.
- 16 percent have faith in the Oilers, who came very close last season.
- The Canadiens received 14 percent, while the Senators and Canucks each got three percent.
- The Calgary Flames received only two percent of the votes.
Interestingly, two percent of those surveyed said no Canadian team will ever win the Stanley Cup again.
Canadian Pride Stronger Than Ever
The survey clearly shows that Canadians are standing stronger together, especially when it comes to defending their identity and traditions. It’s only natural that this growing nationalism is now being reflected in their biggest passion — hockey.
The survey was conducted online with a randomized group of 1,607 Canadian adults who are members of the Angus Reid Forum between April 21 and 24. If it were a traditional poll, the margin of error would be about plus or minus two percentage points, 19 times out of 20.
