Montreal Canadiens Worth More Than Toronto Maple Leafs
It’s true that the Toronto Maple Leafs haven’t won the Stanley Cup since the advent of colour television, but one area where the lacklustre Leafs consistently bested the rival Montreal Canadiens was the value of the franchise. Despite a generation-long losing streak, the Leafs always rack up big bucks from ticket sales, merchandise and TV rights.
But now the Habs beat the Leafs in that too.
Forbes magazine released its ranking of the most valuable franchises in the NHL, and the Canadiens have moved into second place, behind the New York Rangers, with a worth of $1.18 billion, up 18 per cent over last year. The Leafs drop to third place, with their value plunging 12 per cent to $1.15 billion.
The Habs were the only Canadian team to increase their value over the past year. But don’t cry for the Leafs, at least about money, because their valuation is still about double the NHL average.
The NHL “original six” teams are in the top eight while newer franchises are worth less.
The Winnipeg Jets are the least valuable Canadian franchise while the Florida Panthers are the least valuable franchise is the league.