Table of Contents
The Seattle Kraken chose their players in the expansion draft, filling up their roster as the NHL’s 32nd team. They are set to play their first home game this October in the Climate Pledge Arena. The idea of a new arena in the league makes one ponder the question, “what are the best arenas on the NHL?” Here’s a rundown of the top five arenas in the league according to lines.com.
5. Little Caesars Arena (Detroit Red Wings)
Opening just four years ago, the arena located in Midtown Detroit, is the home of the Red Wings as well as the Detroit Pistons of the NBA. The first win by the Red Wings in the new arena was on September 23, 2017 against the Boston Bruins. The Great Lakes Invitational, as well as the NCAA Men’s Frozen Four hockey event has also been held at the Little Caesars Arena. The hall of fame in the arena has a nice display of art and exhibits. Fans can also stroll down memory lane by viewing the Red Wings championship banners and retired numbers.
4. Wells Fargo Center (Philadelphia Flyers)
With a maximum capacity of nearly 20,000, this arena opened to the public in 1996 in the fifth largest city in the United States in terms of population. Home arena for also the Philadelphia 76ers and Philadelphia Wings, the Wells Fargo Center has also hosted the Stanley Cup finals twice and the 2014 NHL Entry Draft.
Prior to games, fans can enjoy a variety of arcade and table games, as well as showing their dismay for the opposition in the “Disassembly Room”. Fans will enjoy Gritty, the Flyers’ mascot, who meanders around prior to the games.
3. Scotiabank Saddledome (Calgary Flames)
Built nearly 40 years ago to replace Stampede Corral, the Saddledome has nearly three times the capacity. The increased interest in the 1988 Winter Olympics, and the Calgary Flames entering the NHL prompted the building of the arena.
Severe floods damaged the arena in June of 2013, but diligent efforts by crews had the arena opened in September, just a few days before the first hockey game. The Saddledome hosted the 1985 NHL All-Star Game three Stanley Cup Finals and the 2000 NHL Entry Draft.
Fans can enjoy numerous hockey artifacts as well as team banners highlighting achievements of the Flames throughout their history.
2. United Center (Chicago Blackhawks)
Opening on August 18, 1994, the United Center is the second largest arena on the list. The arena has hosted the Stanley Cup Finals three times with the Blackhawks claiming the Stanley Cup at home in 2015.
Over the course of its history, the United Center has added flatscreen TVs, numerous food stands, a new scoreboard, and a hardwood court floor for basketball. The Michael Jordan statue stands out at the arena, but for the Blackhawks’ fans, the Stan Mikita and Bobby Hull statues reign supreme. Fans can look up in the arena and see the numerous banners, bringing back memories of team accomplishments.
1. Bell Centre (Montreal Canadiens)
With a capacity surpassing 21,000, the Bell Centre is the largest capacity of any arena on the list. Since its opening in 1996, the Bell Centre has hosted the 2009 NHL Entry Draft and NHL All-Star Game.
Nearly two decades after its opening, the Bell Centre replaced seats, added Wi-Fi and new restaurants. Despite selling out the majority of the games, the Canadiens struggled in 2018, prompting concern that sales would decline.
Strolling through the Bell Center, you will see 20 numbers hanging from the rafters that have been retired by this historic franchise. If you get to the Bell Centre, be sure to take in the statue of Canadiens legend and Hall of Famer, Guy Lafleur.
Featured Image Source: Pixabay