One would think that three Stanley Cup Final appearances, a Stanley Cup, and postseason appearances in every season except one (2021-22) would draw in a ton of revenue for a hockey team. I'm talking about being in the Top 10 in the NHL while reigning supreme over the landscape. However, that isn't the case, as the Vegas Golden Knights didn't even come close to that distinction.
In fact, the Golden Knights ranked 14th in the NHL in revenue at $243 million, according to Sports on Prime Canada. In an X post on Sunday, Vegas was revealed to lag behind teams such as the Dallas Stars and the Minnesota Wild.
The Oilers led the NHL in revenue last season. 💰🏒
— Sports on Prime Canada (@SportsOnPrimeCA) September 14, 2026
Edmonton topped the list at $431M, with Toronto following at $382M and Los Angeles at $347M.
Which team surprised you the most? 👀 pic.twitter.com/t7WD8974Ln
Edmonton ($431 million) leading the NHL in revenue shouldn't surprise some people. The Oilers have Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl to lean on, making them the proverbial Stanley Cup favorites every season. But that isn't the only thing that, well, isn't surprising.
The Original Six teams—sans the Detroit Red Wings ($251 million)—were also represented well in the rankings. The New York Rangers ($322 million), the Boston Bruins ($281 million), the Montreal Canadiens ($324 million), the Chicago Blackhawks ($268 million), and the Toronto Maple Leafs ($382 million) all placed in the Top 10 for revenue. Of course, you have your money-driver in one of the largest sports markets, Los Angeles ($347 million).
Then, there are your New York-New Jersey area teams, like the New Jersey Devils ($300 million), who made the list. Don't forget about the Philadelphia Flyers ($315 million), who reside in a passionate sports city. Still, the shocking (and disappointing) part is that the Golden Knights aren't as high as people would like. What could be the reason for this puzzling ranking, you ask?
Why the Vegas Golden Knights aren't ranked higher in Sports on Prime Canada's revenue list
Looking at the list, you'll notice a healthy dosage of Canadian teams with Original Six blue-bloods. These teams are the lifeforce that drives the NHL's revenue streams. It doesn't matter if they have deep history within hockey's game or have the world's best hockey stars. These teams bring in the dough.
Therefore, not many people may be familiar with Vegas's game. Yes, they had an incredible inaugural season and have brought in megastars such as Jack Eichel and Mitch Marner. But that has only translated into a strong local grip.
Still, the Golden Knights have made concerted efforts to grow their footprint. That includes trips to Arizona and Mexico, growing the game of hockey, along with their brand. That has also come with being a successful hockey team, which Vegas has maintained extremely well. Also, it could be far worse than being in the middle.
Look at it this way. At least you're not the Columbus Blue Jackets, who were dead last in revenue at $164 million. Not many people in Ohio care enough about the Blue Jackets or even know they exist. That's something that fans should be proud of, especially with a terrific ownership group and a stable front office.
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