Baltimore and the NHL: A Love Story That Never Was
So, you're wondering who the heck Baltimoreans root for in the NHL, huh? Well, grab a crab cake and let's dive into this icy mess.
A City of Loyalties, But Not to Ice Hockey
Baltimore is a city of passionate sports fans. We've got the Ravens, the Orioles, and a deep-rooted love for everything football and baseball. But hockey? Well, let's just say it's not exactly our forte.
You see, Baltimoreans are more likely to be found cheering on a gridiron or a diamond than a frozen pond. But that doesn't mean we don't appreciate the occasional body check or a flashy goal.
Who Do We Root For? It's Complicated
Given that Baltimore doesn't have an NHL team (shocker, right?), fans often find themselves in a hockey no-man's land. Some might gravitate towards the Washington Capitals due to geographical proximity. After all, DC isn't that far away, and you can almost see the Capital Beltway from certain parts of Baltimore. But let's be real, the Caps and Ravens fans don't exactly mix well.
Others might lean towards the Pittsburgh Penguins or the Philadelphia Flyers for reasons that are as mysterious as the Loch Ness Monster. Maybe it's a rebellious streak, or perhaps they just really like the color yellow. Who knows?
The Search for a Hockey Identity
Baltimore has made some attempts to embrace hockey over the years. There have been minor league teams, and even talks of bringing an NHL franchise to Charm City. But alas, hockey hasn't quite caught on the way we hoped.
Perhaps one day, a brave soul will step up and start a grassroots hockey movement. Or maybe we'll just stick to our footballs and baseballs. Either way, we'll continue to cheer loudly for our beloved Ravens and Orioles.
So, Who Should You Root For?
If you're a Baltimorean looking for a hockey team to call your own, here are a few factors to consider:
- Geography: Are you closer to DC, Philly, or Pittsburgh?
- Team history: Do you prefer a storied franchise or a team on the rise?
- Jersey color: Let's be honest, sometimes the jersey is all that matters.
Ultimately, the choice is yours. Just remember, no matter who you cheer for, you're still a true Baltimorean at heart.
How to... Become a Hockey Fan (If You Must)
- How to pick a team: Consider factors like location, team history, and jersey color.
- How to understand the game: Watch some games, read up on the rules, and don't be afraid to ask questions.
- How to avoid sounding like a total newbie: Learn some basic hockey lingo and try to avoid using football analogies.
- How to survive a hockey game: Dress warmly, bring snacks, and be prepared for a fast-paced, high-energy experience.
- How to embrace the hockey culture: Grow a beard, wear a flannel shirt, and start drinking beer out of a can.
Disclaimer: The above tips are for entertainment purposes only and do not guarantee hockey fandom.