James Obenauer-Fossett, sporting an Edmonton Oilers tattoo on his shoulder, is throwing his support behind the Montreal Canadiens for the playoffs. Alongside hockey enthusiasts nationwide, he is backing the Canadiens, the lone Canadian team vying for the NHL’s Stanley Cup.
Montreal kicks off their second-round series against the Buffalo Sabres on Wednesday, with a potential historic victory looming. The last Canadian team to hoist the Cup was Montreal in 1993, defeating the Los Angeles Kings in the final.
Despite his deep-rooted Oilers loyalty symbolized by a tattoo of Oilers mascot Hunter the Lynx, Obenauer-Fossett expressed his desire for the Cup to return to Canada after three decades. He emphasized that any Canadian team’s success would bring joy to fans like himself.
In Edmonton, the disappointment from the Oilers’ recent playoff exit is palpable. Naseer Hussain, a 22-year-old Oilers supporter, acknowledged the pain but emphasized the importance of rallying behind Montreal to reclaim the Cup for Canada.
The shift in allegiance towards the Canadiens isn’t uncommon in Canada, where many fans, like 49-year-old Robert Hing in Calgary, have unwavering support for the Bleu, Blanc et Rouge. Hing’s strong ties to Montreal stem from his upbringing and recent firsthand experiences witnessing the Canadiens’ playoff journey.
The presence of Canadiens fans extends beyond Montreal, with Winnipeg also boasting a significant fan base. During a Canadiens-Jets game in February, the sea of red jerseys in the stands drew attention, showcasing the widespread support for the Canadiens across the country.
In various Canadian cities, including Winnipeg, the playoff excitement has led to special promotions at local establishments, such as discounted drinks during Canadian team games. Despite the absence of some Canadian teams in the playoffs, the enthusiasm for supporting Montreal remains high, with bars like Pregame Sports Bar and Lounge in St. Boniface catering to Canadiens fans.
As the Canadiens continue their playoff push, Canadian hockey fans are united in their hope to witness a historic Cup victory for Montreal and bring the coveted trophy back to Canadian soil where its storied journey began.