NHL commish Gary Bettman does not think "any of the sports fans are better than" Bruins fans in all of Boston

By Abhishek Dilta

Modified Dec 02, 2024 05:12 GMT

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NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman praised the Boston Bruins and their fans ahead of the team's Centurian game against the Montreal Canadiens on Sunday night.

During a centennial celebration at TD Garden, Bettman highlighted the significance of the event, which honored several franchise legends who played key roles in the team's storied history.

“I think the pregame ceremony was terrific,” Bettman said via NESN. “When you think about all the activities that were conducted honoring prior captains, prior players, the fans — showing how well-connected this team is to the community. It was a remarkable year, but this a remarkable franchise."

Bettman expressed his belief that while Boston has great sports fans, the hockey fans in the city stand out as the best, calling it a remarkable community.

"One hundred years old. First U.S.-based franchise. It’s been under the same ownership for about half of its duration. So everything that went on here for the Bruins is a testament both to the organization and to the amazing fans."

"Boston has great sports fans, but I don’t think any of the sports fans are better than the hockey fans. This is just a great hockey community," he added.

Boston is home to several major professional sports teams in addition to the Bruins. The city includes the Red Sox in baseball, the Celtics in basketball, New England in American football, and New England in soccer.

The city is also one of just eleven U.S. cities that has teams in all five major professional sports played in the country. The club capped off their centennial celebration with a convincing 6-3 win over the Habs at TD Garden on Sunday.

Bruins became third team to complete a century in NHL

The Bruins became only the third team in NHL history to reach 100 years, joining the Montreal Canadiens and Toronto Maple Leafs.

Established in 1924, the Bruins are the third-oldest team in the NHL and the oldest in the U.S. They are also part of the "Original Six" franchises, which include the Canadiens, Leafs, New York Rangers, Detroit Red Wings, and Chicago Blackhawks.

The club competes in the Atlantic Division of the Eastern Conference and has won six Stanley Cups, with their latest championship coming in 2011. With a 12-11-3 record, the Bruins currently sit third in the Atlantic Division with 27 points after 26 games.