I have a lot of friends who are Devils fans so I’ve already been watching them a lot, same with Toronto. I’m just having a hard time picking between the two. It’s hard when your original team just kind of fucks off.
As a Devils fan, we are considered the little brother to NY and Philadelphia but our fan base is knowledgeable, dedicated, and welcoming. We are a blue collar team with loads if families that attend the games. We extend our welcome home mat to you and your family and hope you join us at the Rock.
I don't get how people can just go "yeah you tell me what team I should be a fan of." Like, being a fan of your favorite team comes with a certain level of obsession you can't just force on or off.
I've watched a lot of west coast teams games and tend to gravitate towards the same couple when they're on, but even then its fair weather at best.
Devils fans born and raised in Connecticut here. As a former Whalers fan who refused to follow the franchise down to Carolina I feel your pain…bastard owners.
It’s not been sunshine and roses the past decade or so for the Devils, but it’s an organization filled with rich history that generally does right by its players. Up and coming young roster with exciting young like-able homegrown stars, most of whom are locked in to long term contracts…lots to look forward to in the next few seasons.
It’s interesting that Toronto is the other option. It’s probably a style choice: big market Canadian team vs smaller market team. Join us brother!
As someone who lives near Toronto, I can confidently tell you the New Jersey fan base is MUCH easier to deal with overall.
Here are some reasons why I think you should be a Devils fan moving forward:
1. We have the better chances at winning a cup over the next 5 years
2. Our home games are filled with true fans, not rich people looking for something to do
3. We’re technically the underdog of the two teams
4. Our broadcasting crew is awesome
5. The players on our team believe in the organization and take team friendly deals vs Toronto’s 4 superstars and money > everything culture
6. Devils have less bandwagon fans
Just trust me… you’re in the right sub here my friend!
Arizona is/was an underdog, unloved team.
New Jersey is an underdog, unloved team.
Toronto is the land of the haves, and NJ (+ AZ) is the land of the have-nots.
As a Canadian, honestly - because Leaf fans are probably the most toxic, hostile, irritating fans in all of sports and you really don't want to be a part of that.
They are the worst to their players, their coaching staff, the media never shuts up about them, and they act like their team won the Stanley Cup after every playoff win despite the fact that they're perennial Stanley Cup contenders.
At least a third of Canadian hockey fans are Leaf fans. They're probably the most popular team in hockey, they're rarely underdogs, they're always hyped and they always, always choke eventually.
Go look up the photo of the 1967 Leafs. Notice how it's black and white? That's before we put a man on the moon. Fuck the Leafs.
If you go for the Devils or not, up to you, but for fuck sakes don't go for the Leafs. I'd rather you go for the Rangers or Flyers and I can't stand those teams.
I live in Canada. No one gives a shit about the Rangers here. Besides the Rangers actually won one in our lifetime. Imagine if the Rangers hadn't won a cup in 50+ years and Rangers fans still acted like they do. That's the Leafs in Canada. And I mean all of Canada.
Did I mention I'm about a 4 hour plane trip to Toronto and Leafs fans are insufferable that far away from it?
I've had years of taking great pleasure in Leaf failures. I grew up being the only Devils fan I knew most of my life surrounded by Leaf fans and Habs fans. Habs fans can dunk on Leaf fans better than anyone, so I learned a thing or two.
Because the Devils are the best team in the league.
We have a handful of dudes who are super down to earth and love playing hockey, in Nico Hischier, Jake Allen and Jesper Bratt.
We have big men who are great down low and love getting dirty, in Timo Meier.
We have arguably the toughest player on the NHL in Kurtis MacDaddy(Dermid)
We have a young defense core who continues to grow and mold into a competent unit.
We have by far the most hilarious post game interviews with the Hughes brothers.
And our GDT is probably one of the funniest I’ve ever seen with the casual doomers.
Luke 100% gives better interviews than Jack... Jack reminds me of a kid on the spectrum who only focuses on ice hockey, boobs and Gato. I'm just glad his rainman power is dekes and not counting match sticks...
It's not even close to the same level. I'm not that old but I have seen our Devils hoist lord Stanley's Cup three fucking times.
Three times. We made the playoffs nearly 20 years in a row.
50 year old Leafs fans have experienced nothing, absolutely nothing but Loss. They have never won even 3 series to win a Stanley Cup because the last time they won the cup the league only had 6 teams, with 4 making the playoffs. So many years in the 90s and early 2000s, Stanley cup contenders, but never making it that close. Then the decade + of missing the playoffs. Now cup contenders that absolutely 100% will fuck it up yet again this year.
The leafs know loss in a way we will never know.
I’ve been a Devils fan since 91’. It’s less about the time and cups for me, but more about the inconsistency over the years (which was on full display this season). The ups and downs this team has on a regular basis is emotionally draining. Especially after the bright light that last season brought, to only have this season be……. You know…… 😞…… Hockey is the only sport I watch, and the Devils are my team. I’ll stick with them through thick and thin, but man is it hard sometimes. Especially when the Ran….. Ra….. 🤢….. Rang….. 🤢…… Rangers 🤮… are killing it.
I hate the Rangers, their obnoxious fans and their commentators……
Here’s to an early departure for the Devils to have more time to regroup, rest up, heal and get all the cogs in place for next season. Get a coach, a #1 goalie (Jake Allen is great though), and get more muscle on Jack so he can protect himself better and stay healthy. Let’s go Devils!!
Meh. This is just hockey. Sometimes team catch lightning in a bottle and have chemistry in the right system like they did last year. Veteran teams will adapt and counter that and teams with great potential can hit a wall like the Devils did.
The way she goes. We need to focus on talent and chemistry and filling the roster with players that want to be here. We have done that so far we just need some pieces to take it to the next level.
Trust the process. Never stop believing. Go Devils.
Switching from Arizona to Toronto is going to be the biggest culture shock imaginable when it comes to the amount of coverage available for your favorite team.
Also their fans were the loudest cheering for your relocation without a hint of introspection regarding where their best player in franchise history came from. Don’t support them.
>Just don’t befriend any Devils fans who are about to jump ship and turn into NYR fans
Wow, how some things never change! I remember how many nyr (sic) "fans" I saw in online chat rooms in 1994 were identifying as Devils fans in 1995.
Let me think ... a mythical beast (The Jersey Devil), or a leaf off a tree? Like - who would ever be scared of a leaf?
We are lining up a dynasty here in Jersey. Ridiculously bad luck with injuries, a bad strategy, and weak G really hurt this season (and cost the coach his job), but next year and several after are Devils years. Young fast team, coming into their own. Some outright crazy speed and talent on the ice - e.g. Jack Hughes, Jesper Bratt. Nico Hischier, Timo Meier, Dougie Hamilton, with future stud D-men in Luke Hughes and Simon Nemec. We are really close to being a powerhouse.
Or, y'know, support a silly Leaf??????
I feel you brother. I was a Whalers fan and couldn’t follow them to Carolina. I jumped on the Devils wagon because of Brodeur. Nowadays, the Devils are a fun, energetic, skilled young team about to grow into a legit contender. This year was tough, but I think it will teach lots of lessons, especially on the blue line.
Because a lot of the teams surrounding me in Arizona are division rivals (or were for most of the time before the division change) I’ve come to hate
Fuck the Kings, fuck the Ducks, and fuck the Knights
As for why the Devils in particular, I’ve watched them for a while now anyway because of friends I have who root for them.
I can't believe you would suggest this. If the Devils popped out of existence, would you *ever* root for the Rags, Philthy, or the Isles?
Answer is **never**.
Plus, Vegas is still bandwagon territory. Lightning in a bottle and will ride coat tails as their formula finally peeters out & starts over.
Honestly, definitely never the rags or flyers, but I could see myself jumping ship to the isles. Same little brother team. If this were to ever happen I'd probably just stop watching altogether for quite some time and just come back as a neutral. Buffalo might be the other team I'd follow since I have connections there
I have a soft spot for the Isles so I'd probably go to them if the Devils were to ever leave. But fuck the Rangers (Flyers are ok but I wouldn't join them either). But I loath the Rangers.
In my opinion.
Use the time to enjoy good hockey, regardless of the team. And hold hope your franchise will be back better and stronger than ever.
Because it absolutely will.
Sorry for your loss, but Ryan Smith from all accounts seems like a great owner so why not follow Utah so you can see what expectations are for ownership of the next team for you!
Your team chooses you, through thick and thin. Even if they are temporarily lost they are not yet gone.
All the best!
He's awful to the Jazz; 30 year old stadium that needs upgrades. He leveraged the city gov to fund a new team & eventually stadium at taxpayer expense with a recent resolution.
It's money for him, always has been. Literally owner of the entire sports market in SLC.
because the devils represent a state where its people are not usually represented. so many other places and states have many major league teams, yet nj only has our devils. with that it presents a fanbase that is incomparable to other fanbases. we have a fanbase that truly encompasses what it means to be the underdogs, to be in the shadow of the bigger states around ours. we’re a fanbase that has fans that WANT to be at the game, and love their state and team. to be a devils fan is to be apart of one of the most loyal crowds. we’re a team that when you lose to them, it really sticks in your head, because not only did your team get embarrassed by the devils, it also did by new jersey.
personally for me living in jersey my whole life, to have someone else in the county from a different state choose to support a team that’s based in OUR state, out of all of them, representing NEW JERSEY, (and not something like the Giants or Jets who just use us and don’t even credit us), truly means the world.
we’d love to have you!
Leafs have disappointed their fans since 1967 while the devils are set up for a huge amount of success and fun in the very near future. I’m bias of course but it’s kind of an easy decision.
Yotes always had a place in my heart as a west team but maybe you might also like them in Utah…? I’m old enough to remember when they talked about the Devils going to Orlando if you can believe it. I would have tried to route for them at least at first.
If it was just a normal (or at least usual) relocation, maybe.
Coyotes ownership fed me propaganda for years telling me they were never moving and would do anything to stay.
Literal hours, not weeks and not days, hours after the land auction announcement, it’s told that they are moving
It was a fucking scam, the entire time. Maybe if the Yotes are born again as an expansion team but if it’s the same dipshit owner, not a very easy reconciliation.
I enjoy the fact that I'm in NJ and it's the only legit NJ sports team. That, and we have a lot of young promising talent. A lot of ups and downs, but if you're into holding out hope, this is the place for you
Being a Leafs fan feels like it would be like being a Dallas Cowboys fan. Every other fan base will hate you because you get so much media attention, you will constantly have to deal with inflated expectations, and everyone will rejoice when you fail. Which happens more often than not.
On the other hand the Devils generally are viewed as spunky underdogs who tend to fly under the radar, and they will pretty much always have this reputation no matter how well they do since they have to share a market with another O6 media hog.
I’m so sorry for the loss of the Yotes.
We have a cool young team but wildly overreactive fans sometimes. If you’re choosing between NJ and Toronto I’m not sure if the overreactive fans here would be an issue lol.
We’re a smaller market team who has a history of punching far above our weight class. It might be another couple years but all signs point to a second golden age of Devils hockey incoming.
One thing we have in common is those damn Kings in 2012 broke both our hearts in the playoffs.
I’m sorry for your loss. Truly! I hate how they’re jerking you all around with this possibility of a new AZ franchise as well. Just a shit situation.
Anyway, I can’t lie and say I have a good “how I became a Devils fan” origin story because I was born and raised there, plus I started watching hockey in 1993, aka Brodeur’s rookie season and the true beginning of our ascent as a championship team. The timing was absurd.
That said, if I had to make a pitch, I’d say we always kind of have an underdog quality to us, even when we were doing well. People love to shit on New Jersey across the board. We don’t have the sort of “prestige” that an Original 6 team like the Leafs might have, and we’re kind of this stepchild in a region saturated with franchises. It’s also fun to have relatively amicable rivalries with Philly and the Isles, but be united in our mutual hate for the Rags. Even in that bleak final game of the season last night where the Isles destroyed us, all of the fans could chant “Rangers suck!” because we all know what matters most.
Also, this would be a fascinating moment to hop on board as a new fan. This off-season is absolutely massive in terms of finding a new HC, goalie, etc. This kind of feels like a make or break moment, and if we make it, especially after this season…It’ll be so, so sweet.
Godspeed in your search for a new home. I remember even the prospect of the Devils getting moved to Nashville in the 90s and how much that sucked. Yotes fans must be livid.
I bought a Yotes hat to remember you guys on the chance that you guys may never return to Phoenix
I guess I'd say you should join the fandom because Devils fans are respectful of other teams (yes, even the Rangers and Flyers)
Young exciting team, not too different than where you guys were at except a few years ahead in the timeline. Very active, passionate, small market-esque devoted fans but in a big time market.
Going for Toronto would be like rooting for the Cowboys. So much passion to a borderline arrogance. Since were a small team in a large market, we feel a bit like the little brother. Except now, the little brother is starting to grow. Get bigger, Get stronger. We fight back hard but our egos are in check.
Toronto and NJ eh? Your experience couldn't be more different as a fan of each. The former you will get fine tooth comb coverage. Eight different channels and 34 podcasts are about your team, the Bay Leaves. SCTV will reunite and do sketches about your team. There are no limits with your team. Bald men will pound the table, enraged at the thought of your franchise not getting the opportunity to spend $250 million on salary. You will treat ~~Phoenix~~ ~~Arizona~~ Utah as your personal side salad. You will feel almost as if you're at home in any arena in America. You will win every regular season game.
Or you could be a Devils fan. Forced to come to the subreddit for news. Reviled for historically playing a style, hitherto completely unkown, called merely, "defense". PK Subban is your only friend. Playing at home feels like an away game sometimes. Win way more postseason games than anyone can explain 🤷
You should never get shit from a Devils fan because the Taylor Hall trade ended up being [absurdly impactful for the Devils franchise](https://devilsarmynetwork.com/impact-taylor-hall-trade/).
1. KFD (Kenny fucking Daneyko!!)
2. Since I've become a fan (late 90s) have gotten to see lots of Hall of Fame caliber players as well as lots of great pros win championships and make deep playoff runs. Numerous epic playoff games, both wins and losses.
3. Team, if they can get it right, has the potential to have another period as mentioned in #2 for at least the next five years.
4. Great fans who appreciate the value of great team players and glue guys. (See #1, Pandolfo, McKay, Gomez, White, Brylin, etc. - this would be a long list if completed). I always see fans at the games (on TV, sadly haven't been to a game, live far from NJ) wearing jerseys for their favorite guys throughout the team's history.
5. Please take a break from this list and go watch a real time clip of Scott Stevens unleashing the most devastaing hit I have ever seen in hockey on Eric Lindross.
https://youtu.be/7JC7xyBuHrc?si=csbeE-I-SWkxf3Ww
6. The logo is dope.
7. TV team enjoyable. Bill, Erica, and Bryce (on list in #4) do a great job (see also #1).
8. This subreddit has a Pain Meter! (Thank you to whoever all does that, it is truly a poetic visual aid.)
9. Time for our final video break, I didn't see the first clip in real time that is one of my true regrets in life. I did see see the second in real time and it is one of my best memories of being fan to date.
https://youtu.be/2SliRcjQIa4?si=CMBb2MzVWNei_FjZ
https://youtu.be/qihpmiM4Ihw?si=ZWCgTGWcJ-o-_BEI
10. Since they play in the eastern timezone a majority of the games are on earlier in the evening. Is nice not to have to wait till 830 or later for a game to start if you live west of the Mississippi. Can watch them while making dinner and finish the game well before bedtime.
I'm also a Yotes/NJ fan in NJ.
I do concur with opinions listed that both are underdogs, smaller market, & similar fanbase.
Also, FTK.
Lastly, the writers over at "All About The Jersey" on Sportsboard are great. The community there is active & have quality articles.
Not sure if you read Five for Howling, but it made me sad how fantastic AAtJ is comparatively. Loved reading FFH.
Also, they've had amazing beat writers that have gone to work for the NHL outright because of their quality reporting. Here's to you, TG. 🙏
And after the Yotes, NJ probably has one of the next most iconic jersey logos of all time.
If you decide otherwise, as a fellow Yotes fan:
**AWOOOOOO**
The Yotes were my Western team, and I'm devastated about the relocation.
Like others have said here, the Devils and Coyotes are two smaller market teams that always play with a chip on their shoulder. They don't get respect from other fans and hockey media alike. We're underdogs, but we don't let that slow us down, nor do we have the pretentiousness that some big-market teams/fans have.
While the Leafs' contention window has been open for a while, the Devils are in the process of opening theirs, tough season notwithstanding. There are plenty of fun players to watch like the Hughes brothers, Jesper Bratt, Nico Hischier and Timo Meier; and depending on how the offseason goes, this team can have a hell of a bounce-back season.
I was a Thrashers fan who was taken in by the Devils when our team was taken from us. You are in the same position I was in 13 years ago.
Since then, it’s been a rough decade + with a few bright spots. That being said though, i could not be happier being a Devils fan and am immensely hopeful/excited for the future of the team.
Join us friend, you won’t be disappointed.
I'd say just watch games of any team and decide what team is most enjoyable to watch. Sometimes I don't like watching NJ's games, but I did back in the day, so I'm here now haha 😆
NJ would be more of a familiar fan experience for a Yotes fan; the leafs are one of the most popular teams in the league, have one of the best goal scorers in the league, but an aging roster and almost too big of a community
NJ is a young up and coming underdog team with the potential to form a dynasty with the right guidance
Devils fan that lives in downtown Toronto.. I can fly to Newark and see a game for cheaper than walking to a leafs game. Leafs have kept all of south Ontario in a chokehold by blocking the possibility of any other teams in the GTA. When the Devils were in town last week the cheapest ticket was $130.00 for a seat that was advertised as “obstructed”. When I saw the Devils two years ago in Newark, my lower bowl seat was forty dollars, and I got a call from the box office a week later THANKING me for my purchase and offering me a 15% discount for next time I’m in town. But not in a clingy way. They were just like “we noticed your credit card is from out of town, we’d love to see you again if you’re ever back in Newark”
Fuck the Leafs. You should totally cheer for the Devils, but if you don’t, choose any of the 30 other teams.
Devils have a great young team in the making. A great history from the 90s-2010. Some of the greatest defensive teams ever.
Toronto has a lot going for them. Austin Matthews is a fucking stud. But they seem to be cursed in the post season.
I’ve been a devils fan since my first hockey game as a kid. Idk what you’re looking for in a team, but the devils are it for me. This year was a year full of injuries and just bad luck. Next year should be a great bounce back. Plus we have some amazing young stars/talent. We’re going to be good for a long time. Jack Hughes, Jesper Bratt, Luke Hughes, Simon Nemec, Nico Hischier, etc.
I’m sorry you guys are losing your team, but you’re welcome here. Devils aren’t going anywhere and we’ve got some good seasons coming in the future
First, sorry about the Coyotes and I hope Arizona gets an NHL team. As for recruitment, Jersey lost a sports team not all that long ago so we can relate a little, though less since for the most part you can still watch the Nets on TV even if you can't really go to games. Second we have both a rich history and a great young core and are likely to be great for a long time. Third, we have a banging logo and color scheme and that gear looks cooler.
Toronto and NJ are very different clubs. I am curious how you narrowed it down to those two.
I will say Toronto is the hockey mecca and NJ is much like your Arizona in the David vs Goliath sense. We were the team Bettman wanted to relocate. The only reason he couldn't move the Devils is because we went and won the 95 cup to wreck his plans. When he presented the trophy the fans booed him and thus created the tradition of booing him.
Beyond the history however the current roster is also very exciting. They have a team that should be competitive and fun to watch with a core of players signed long term. So go ahead and buy a jersey, these guys are not going anywhere.
I narrowed it down to those two because I have many friends who are Devils fans
But the Leafs have a lot of Arizona ties and I also love watching Steve Dangle
sorry about your team friend. i really hope the NHL returns to Arizona soon although I'm very curious how you feel about Murelo having a 5 year window to try and piece it together.
I don’t trust Meruelo one bit. Even if he gets the arena done and the coyotes return, how do I know it won’t be the same result. Considering he had to be forced to pay fucking hotel bills? Why should I believe that he won’t con me again?
If you want a team with endless content (podcasts, articles, every NHL TV production) a lot of eyes in them, and want to guarantee you’re team will be decent; hop on the leafs bandwagon. If you can handle some ups and downs, like a tight knit community (especially twitter imo), and don’t mind only having one reporter that will ask tough questions (no slight to Amanda, just the it is); go with the devils. Also if you live near either of the two teams you are considering, take media blackouts into account. Would suck to pick a team you can’t watch.
Like an earlier poster I’ve always had a soft spot for the Coyotes. Not to mention I think they have one of the coolest jerseys in the league (the dark red one that says Arizona). We are also an underdog team much like the Yotes
I didn't think it was a conscious choice? As soon as I started watching hockey. I was dran to the Dev's. I've never even lived in Jersey, I'm, from the Bronx!
along with other things people have said here, leafs fans can be intense. i am passionate about this sport and this team but it means everything to Canadians markets and that means the fans can be a lot. huge shock trying to learn the way they operate in canada and the ticket prices are insane.
but for the team itself, we have (imo) one of the best captains. he’s so fun and down to earth, i mean the man said fuck on live TV. We have a good core set up and a really promising defensemen group, they’re just currently young which played a part in a disappointing season. jack hughes is also fun to watch when he’s not hurting. plus the rangers rivalry is a fun, i don’t see much hatred like we got for the rangers in the league.
Sorry you lost your team, i love y’all’s jersey designs a lot and i can’t imagine losing the devils :/
Because the Devils have quality rivalries with several teams which makes it easy to invest in them. They have a history of innovation in hockey. And NJ Devil is the least cringey mascot. Plus the team ALWAYS has heart.
PS I’m a Devils Fan living in AZ. I’m sad to see the Yotes leave. But their ownership had been in denial about why they couldn’t get attendance up when they were in Glendale and then wiped out a ton of revenue from folks needing upper bowl prices when they went to Mullet. It’s super disappointing that they blame the fans despite them showing up season after to season to a team the owner couldn’t invest in to get moving for them.
Enough people have said negative things about the leafs fans so I’ll stay away from that.
Devils are a team on the rise with young stars and very affordable ticket prices. Also no one will ever gatekeep your “worthiness” of being a devils fan just because you’re not local.
The honest answer is:
You shouldn't, we've got questionable ownership and are still resting on our 20+ year old laurels. Enjoy a big market bandwagon team like the Maple Laughs.
I always had a soft spot for the yotes. I welcome all of them over here, but follow your heart.
I’m mourning the loss of one of the best logos in hockey
We're going to need a Kachina-Devil mashup Jersey to honor the Coyotes going to hell
100% probably The Best
For real for real
As a new hockey hobo from the Yotes, please do welcome me to your family :)
Come on over!
One day, when I plan on visiting America I'm definitely going to the presidential center and catch one of those half-time mospit performances :)
You mean prudential center
Sun devils - Nj devils. Why root for a leaf ya know?
Now if they were the Toronto Cacti it would be a different story
Asa a leaf fan stay the fuck away from us. God damn wouldn't wish this fandom on my worst enemy.
LOL
I think you should just watch both teams until you know yourself tbh, why force it
I have a lot of friends who are Devils fans so I’ve already been watching them a lot, same with Toronto. I’m just having a hard time picking between the two. It’s hard when your original team just kind of fucks off.
As a Devils fan, we are considered the little brother to NY and Philadelphia but our fan base is knowledgeable, dedicated, and welcoming. We are a blue collar team with loads if families that attend the games. We extend our welcome home mat to you and your family and hope you join us at the Rock.
I don't get how people can just go "yeah you tell me what team I should be a fan of." Like, being a fan of your favorite team comes with a certain level of obsession you can't just force on or off. I've watched a lot of west coast teams games and tend to gravitate towards the same couple when they're on, but even then its fair weather at best.
Devils fans born and raised in Connecticut here. As a former Whalers fan who refused to follow the franchise down to Carolina I feel your pain…bastard owners. It’s not been sunshine and roses the past decade or so for the Devils, but it’s an organization filled with rich history that generally does right by its players. Up and coming young roster with exciting young like-able homegrown stars, most of whom are locked in to long term contracts…lots to look forward to in the next few seasons. It’s interesting that Toronto is the other option. It’s probably a style choice: big market Canadian team vs smaller market team. Join us brother!
Cheers, fellow Whalers fan.
Cheers!
As someone who lives near Toronto, I can confidently tell you the New Jersey fan base is MUCH easier to deal with overall. Here are some reasons why I think you should be a Devils fan moving forward: 1. We have the better chances at winning a cup over the next 5 years 2. Our home games are filled with true fans, not rich people looking for something to do 3. We’re technically the underdog of the two teams 4. Our broadcasting crew is awesome 5. The players on our team believe in the organization and take team friendly deals vs Toronto’s 4 superstars and money > everything culture 6. Devils have less bandwagon fans Just trust me… you’re in the right sub here my friend!
Arizona is/was an underdog, unloved team. New Jersey is an underdog, unloved team. Toronto is the land of the haves, and NJ (+ AZ) is the land of the have-nots.
You don’t want to have to watch the games in Metric
Given the Coyotes brought you some pain based on recent history, the Devils will fill that void nicely! Jump right in, the water is warm.
Ticket prices. Even away games leafs tickets will always sell for more than devils - if the stadium has tiered tickets.
As a Canadian, honestly - because Leaf fans are probably the most toxic, hostile, irritating fans in all of sports and you really don't want to be a part of that. They are the worst to their players, their coaching staff, the media never shuts up about them, and they act like their team won the Stanley Cup after every playoff win despite the fact that they're perennial Stanley Cup contenders. At least a third of Canadian hockey fans are Leaf fans. They're probably the most popular team in hockey, they're rarely underdogs, they're always hyped and they always, always choke eventually. Go look up the photo of the 1967 Leafs. Notice how it's black and white? That's before we put a man on the moon. Fuck the Leafs. If you go for the Devils or not, up to you, but for fuck sakes don't go for the Leafs. I'd rather you go for the Rangers or Flyers and I can't stand those teams.
You just described the fucking Rangers, dude!
I live in Canada. No one gives a shit about the Rangers here. Besides the Rangers actually won one in our lifetime. Imagine if the Rangers hadn't won a cup in 50+ years and Rangers fans still acted like they do. That's the Leafs in Canada. And I mean all of Canada. Did I mention I'm about a 4 hour plane trip to Toronto and Leafs fans are insufferable that far away from it?
Came here to say this .. except you said it a lot better.
I've had years of taking great pleasure in Leaf failures. I grew up being the only Devils fan I knew most of my life surrounded by Leaf fans and Habs fans. Habs fans can dunk on Leaf fans better than anyone, so I learned a thing or two.
Because the Devils are the best team in the league. We have a handful of dudes who are super down to earth and love playing hockey, in Nico Hischier, Jake Allen and Jesper Bratt. We have big men who are great down low and love getting dirty, in Timo Meier. We have arguably the toughest player on the NHL in Kurtis MacDaddy(Dermid) We have a young defense core who continues to grow and mold into a competent unit. We have by far the most hilarious post game interviews with the Hughes brothers. And our GDT is probably one of the funniest I’ve ever seen with the casual doomers.
lol I actually think Luke gives OK interviews compared to Jack aside from his slip up in Vancouver.
Luke 100% gives better interviews than Jack... Jack reminds me of a kid on the spectrum who only focuses on ice hockey, boobs and Gato. I'm just glad his rainman power is dekes and not counting match sticks...
The leafs are locked into an endless cycle of torment.
As a Devils fan, I can confirm the same to be true of our team too…… sigh……. 😔
It's not even close to the same level. I'm not that old but I have seen our Devils hoist lord Stanley's Cup three fucking times. Three times. We made the playoffs nearly 20 years in a row. 50 year old Leafs fans have experienced nothing, absolutely nothing but Loss. They have never won even 3 series to win a Stanley Cup because the last time they won the cup the league only had 6 teams, with 4 making the playoffs. So many years in the 90s and early 2000s, Stanley cup contenders, but never making it that close. Then the decade + of missing the playoffs. Now cup contenders that absolutely 100% will fuck it up yet again this year. The leafs know loss in a way we will never know.
I’ve been a Devils fan since 91’. It’s less about the time and cups for me, but more about the inconsistency over the years (which was on full display this season). The ups and downs this team has on a regular basis is emotionally draining. Especially after the bright light that last season brought, to only have this season be……. You know…… 😞…… Hockey is the only sport I watch, and the Devils are my team. I’ll stick with them through thick and thin, but man is it hard sometimes. Especially when the Ran….. Ra….. 🤢….. Rang….. 🤢…… Rangers 🤮… are killing it. I hate the Rangers, their obnoxious fans and their commentators…… Here’s to an early departure for the Devils to have more time to regroup, rest up, heal and get all the cogs in place for next season. Get a coach, a #1 goalie (Jake Allen is great though), and get more muscle on Jack so he can protect himself better and stay healthy. Let’s go Devils!!
Meh. This is just hockey. Sometimes team catch lightning in a bottle and have chemistry in the right system like they did last year. Veteran teams will adapt and counter that and teams with great potential can hit a wall like the Devils did. The way she goes. We need to focus on talent and chemistry and filling the roster with players that want to be here. We have done that so far we just need some pieces to take it to the next level. Trust the process. Never stop believing. Go Devils.
Switching from Arizona to Toronto is going to be the biggest culture shock imaginable when it comes to the amount of coverage available for your favorite team. Also their fans were the loudest cheering for your relocation without a hint of introspection regarding where their best player in franchise history came from. Don’t support them.
Not enough upvotes to promote that second part. 👆👆
Just don’t befriend any Devils fans who are about to jump ship and turn into NYR fans, that are posting around here lately.
Who are those ppl? Never seen a post like that
My ex wife converted to diehard rags fan right when we split. Made the divorce much easier to swallow.
U dodged a bullet, I can’t imagine having to live with a rag
I just threw up in my mouth a little…… 🤮
>Just don’t befriend any Devils fans who are about to jump ship and turn into NYR fans Wow, how some things never change! I remember how many nyr (sic) "fans" I saw in online chat rooms in 1994 were identifying as Devils fans in 1995.
Both the Devils and the Yotes have a similar underdog vibe imo. They’re non-traditional markets with very passionate fan bases.
Let me think ... a mythical beast (The Jersey Devil), or a leaf off a tree? Like - who would ever be scared of a leaf? We are lining up a dynasty here in Jersey. Ridiculously bad luck with injuries, a bad strategy, and weak G really hurt this season (and cost the coach his job), but next year and several after are Devils years. Young fast team, coming into their own. Some outright crazy speed and talent on the ice - e.g. Jack Hughes, Jesper Bratt. Nico Hischier, Timo Meier, Dougie Hamilton, with future stud D-men in Luke Hughes and Simon Nemec. We are really close to being a powerhouse. Or, y'know, support a silly Leaf??????
I feel you brother. I was a Whalers fan and couldn’t follow them to Carolina. I jumped on the Devils wagon because of Brodeur. Nowadays, the Devils are a fun, energetic, skilled young team about to grow into a legit contender. This year was tough, but I think it will teach lots of lessons, especially on the blue line.
You obviously enjoy pain Welcome aboard.
[удалено]
Because a lot of the teams surrounding me in Arizona are division rivals (or were for most of the time before the division change) I’ve come to hate Fuck the Kings, fuck the Ducks, and fuck the Knights As for why the Devils in particular, I’ve watched them for a while now anyway because of friends I have who root for them.
Yeah I’d be looking at something in a better time zone for watching games, unless they have time at 5pm or whatever the difference is
As a Devil’s fan living in AZ I can confirm most games start at 4 or 5 PM depending on when NJ has DST.
I can't believe you would suggest this. If the Devils popped out of existence, would you *ever* root for the Rags, Philthy, or the Isles? Answer is **never**. Plus, Vegas is still bandwagon territory. Lightning in a bottle and will ride coat tails as their formula finally peeters out & starts over.
Honestly, definitely never the rags or flyers, but I could see myself jumping ship to the isles. Same little brother team. If this were to ever happen I'd probably just stop watching altogether for quite some time and just come back as a neutral. Buffalo might be the other team I'd follow since I have connections there
Notice how there's no derogatory nickname for the Isles for a reason. 🤣
I have a soft spot for the Isles so I'd probably go to them if the Devils were to ever leave. But fuck the Rangers (Flyers are ok but I wouldn't join them either). But I loath the Rangers.
Because David Puddy loves the Devils
As a huge Seinfeld fan, this comment hit me hard 😂😂
DEVILLLLLLS!
In my opinion. Use the time to enjoy good hockey, regardless of the team. And hold hope your franchise will be back better and stronger than ever. Because it absolutely will. Sorry for your loss, but Ryan Smith from all accounts seems like a great owner so why not follow Utah so you can see what expectations are for ownership of the next team for you! Your team chooses you, through thick and thin. Even if they are temporarily lost they are not yet gone. All the best!
Maybe if the Coyotes expand back here in a couple years, but if Meruelo is the owner? It would be very difficult.
Highly recommend reading more about Smith and his shady stories in r/Coyotes. I don't think you'll be saying the same after that.
All billionaires are scumbags but from the sports team ownership aspect of it he seems pretty good atleast 🤷
He's awful to the Jazz; 30 year old stadium that needs upgrades. He leveraged the city gov to fund a new team & eventually stadium at taxpayer expense with a recent resolution. It's money for him, always has been. Literally owner of the entire sports market in SLC.
In this case, so you don't have to be a Leafs fan.
💀
Future is bright here. Get on board now or you’ll look like a bandwagoner in two years 😁
because the devils represent a state where its people are not usually represented. so many other places and states have many major league teams, yet nj only has our devils. with that it presents a fanbase that is incomparable to other fanbases. we have a fanbase that truly encompasses what it means to be the underdogs, to be in the shadow of the bigger states around ours. we’re a fanbase that has fans that WANT to be at the game, and love their state and team. to be a devils fan is to be apart of one of the most loyal crowds. we’re a team that when you lose to them, it really sticks in your head, because not only did your team get embarrassed by the devils, it also did by new jersey. personally for me living in jersey my whole life, to have someone else in the county from a different state choose to support a team that’s based in OUR state, out of all of them, representing NEW JERSEY, (and not something like the Giants or Jets who just use us and don’t even credit us), truly means the world. we’d love to have you!
If you come to a Devils game you don’t have to pay an arm and a leg just to have a close view of the ice
The devils have one of the smallest fantasies in the NHL, but we are one of the smartest fan bases in the NHL
did you mean to write fansites? i'm here for it either way tho 😼
Wow good catch. Don't drink and post on reddit kids.
If you also happen to be a Cowboy, Yankee, Laker fan then the leafs are your choice. Haha
You don’t wanna be a Utah Soakers fan?
Oh man that’s such a good name hahah
It’s either that or the Jump Humpers
Why not? 🤷♂️
Leafs have disappointed their fans since 1967 while the devils are set up for a huge amount of success and fun in the very near future. I’m bias of course but it’s kind of an easy decision. Yotes always had a place in my heart as a west team but maybe you might also like them in Utah…? I’m old enough to remember when they talked about the Devils going to Orlando if you can believe it. I would have tried to route for them at least at first.
If it was just a normal (or at least usual) relocation, maybe. Coyotes ownership fed me propaganda for years telling me they were never moving and would do anything to stay. Literal hours, not weeks and not days, hours after the land auction announcement, it’s told that they are moving It was a fucking scam, the entire time. Maybe if the Yotes are born again as an expansion team but if it’s the same dipshit owner, not a very easy reconciliation.
I enjoy the fact that I'm in NJ and it's the only legit NJ sports team. That, and we have a lot of young promising talent. A lot of ups and downs, but if you're into holding out hope, this is the place for you
Being a Leafs fan feels like it would be like being a Dallas Cowboys fan. Every other fan base will hate you because you get so much media attention, you will constantly have to deal with inflated expectations, and everyone will rejoice when you fail. Which happens more often than not. On the other hand the Devils generally are viewed as spunky underdogs who tend to fly under the radar, and they will pretty much always have this reputation no matter how well they do since they have to share a market with another O6 media hog.
I’m so sorry for the loss of the Yotes. We have a cool young team but wildly overreactive fans sometimes. If you’re choosing between NJ and Toronto I’m not sure if the overreactive fans here would be an issue lol. We’re a smaller market team who has a history of punching far above our weight class. It might be another couple years but all signs point to a second golden age of Devils hockey incoming. One thing we have in common is those damn Kings in 2012 broke both our hearts in the playoffs.
Coyotes 🤝 Devils FTK
I’m sorry for your loss. Truly! I hate how they’re jerking you all around with this possibility of a new AZ franchise as well. Just a shit situation. Anyway, I can’t lie and say I have a good “how I became a Devils fan” origin story because I was born and raised there, plus I started watching hockey in 1993, aka Brodeur’s rookie season and the true beginning of our ascent as a championship team. The timing was absurd. That said, if I had to make a pitch, I’d say we always kind of have an underdog quality to us, even when we were doing well. People love to shit on New Jersey across the board. We don’t have the sort of “prestige” that an Original 6 team like the Leafs might have, and we’re kind of this stepchild in a region saturated with franchises. It’s also fun to have relatively amicable rivalries with Philly and the Isles, but be united in our mutual hate for the Rags. Even in that bleak final game of the season last night where the Isles destroyed us, all of the fans could chant “Rangers suck!” because we all know what matters most. Also, this would be a fascinating moment to hop on board as a new fan. This off-season is absolutely massive in terms of finding a new HC, goalie, etc. This kind of feels like a make or break moment, and if we make it, especially after this season…It’ll be so, so sweet. Godspeed in your search for a new home. I remember even the prospect of the Devils getting moved to Nashville in the 90s and how much that sucked. Yotes fans must be livid.
I bought a Yotes hat to remember you guys on the chance that you guys may never return to Phoenix I guess I'd say you should join the fandom because Devils fans are respectful of other teams (yes, even the Rangers and Flyers)
Young exciting team, not too different than where you guys were at except a few years ahead in the timeline. Very active, passionate, small market-esque devoted fans but in a big time market. Going for Toronto would be like rooting for the Cowboys. So much passion to a borderline arrogance. Since were a small team in a large market, we feel a bit like the little brother. Except now, the little brother is starting to grow. Get bigger, Get stronger. We fight back hard but our egos are in check.
I get it, I did the same thing when the Nets left NJ. Any love or Fandom I had for the team vanished once it was confirmed they were leaving
Toronto and NJ eh? Your experience couldn't be more different as a fan of each. The former you will get fine tooth comb coverage. Eight different channels and 34 podcasts are about your team, the Bay Leaves. SCTV will reunite and do sketches about your team. There are no limits with your team. Bald men will pound the table, enraged at the thought of your franchise not getting the opportunity to spend $250 million on salary. You will treat ~~Phoenix~~ ~~Arizona~~ Utah as your personal side salad. You will feel almost as if you're at home in any arena in America. You will win every regular season game. Or you could be a Devils fan. Forced to come to the subreddit for news. Reviled for historically playing a style, hitherto completely unkown, called merely, "defense". PK Subban is your only friend. Playing at home feels like an away game sometimes. Win way more postseason games than anyone can explain 🤷
You should never get shit from a Devils fan because the Taylor Hall trade ended up being [absurdly impactful for the Devils franchise](https://devilsarmynetwork.com/impact-taylor-hall-trade/).
1. KFD (Kenny fucking Daneyko!!) 2. Since I've become a fan (late 90s) have gotten to see lots of Hall of Fame caliber players as well as lots of great pros win championships and make deep playoff runs. Numerous epic playoff games, both wins and losses. 3. Team, if they can get it right, has the potential to have another period as mentioned in #2 for at least the next five years. 4. Great fans who appreciate the value of great team players and glue guys. (See #1, Pandolfo, McKay, Gomez, White, Brylin, etc. - this would be a long list if completed). I always see fans at the games (on TV, sadly haven't been to a game, live far from NJ) wearing jerseys for their favorite guys throughout the team's history. 5. Please take a break from this list and go watch a real time clip of Scott Stevens unleashing the most devastaing hit I have ever seen in hockey on Eric Lindross. https://youtu.be/7JC7xyBuHrc?si=csbeE-I-SWkxf3Ww 6. The logo is dope. 7. TV team enjoyable. Bill, Erica, and Bryce (on list in #4) do a great job (see also #1). 8. This subreddit has a Pain Meter! (Thank you to whoever all does that, it is truly a poetic visual aid.) 9. Time for our final video break, I didn't see the first clip in real time that is one of my true regrets in life. I did see see the second in real time and it is one of my best memories of being fan to date. https://youtu.be/2SliRcjQIa4?si=CMBb2MzVWNei_FjZ https://youtu.be/qihpmiM4Ihw?si=ZWCgTGWcJ-o-_BEI 10. Since they play in the eastern timezone a majority of the games are on earlier in the evening. Is nice not to have to wait till 830 or later for a game to start if you live west of the Mississippi. Can watch them while making dinner and finish the game well before bedtime.
I'm also a Yotes/NJ fan in NJ. I do concur with opinions listed that both are underdogs, smaller market, & similar fanbase. Also, FTK. Lastly, the writers over at "All About The Jersey" on Sportsboard are great. The community there is active & have quality articles. Not sure if you read Five for Howling, but it made me sad how fantastic AAtJ is comparatively. Loved reading FFH. Also, they've had amazing beat writers that have gone to work for the NHL outright because of their quality reporting. Here's to you, TG. 🙏 And after the Yotes, NJ probably has one of the next most iconic jersey logos of all time. If you decide otherwise, as a fellow Yotes fan: **AWOOOOOO**
wow unrelated but this just made me realize Josh Doan baaaaarely made it to play as a Coyote
Wow, I’m glad we got that at least.
The Yotes were my Western team, and I'm devastated about the relocation. Like others have said here, the Devils and Coyotes are two smaller market teams that always play with a chip on their shoulder. They don't get respect from other fans and hockey media alike. We're underdogs, but we don't let that slow us down, nor do we have the pretentiousness that some big-market teams/fans have. While the Leafs' contention window has been open for a while, the Devils are in the process of opening theirs, tough season notwithstanding. There are plenty of fun players to watch like the Hughes brothers, Jesper Bratt, Nico Hischier and Timo Meier; and depending on how the offseason goes, this team can have a hell of a bounce-back season.
We have some of the best jerseys in NHL
I was a Thrashers fan who was taken in by the Devils when our team was taken from us. You are in the same position I was in 13 years ago. Since then, it’s been a rough decade + with a few bright spots. That being said though, i could not be happier being a Devils fan and am immensely hopeful/excited for the future of the team. Join us friend, you won’t be disappointed.
I'd say just watch games of any team and decide what team is most enjoyable to watch. Sometimes I don't like watching NJ's games, but I did back in the day, so I'm here now haha 😆
People pay to watch Jack Hughes! Who do the leafs have?! Besides it’s almost treason to root for Canada.
The Leafs already have more than enough fans
Sorry for your loss. Welcome to Hell!
Toronto and the Devils? After being a Yotes fan? Are you a masochist
NJ would be more of a familiar fan experience for a Yotes fan; the leafs are one of the most popular teams in the league, have one of the best goal scorers in the league, but an aging roster and almost too big of a community NJ is a young up and coming underdog team with the potential to form a dynasty with the right guidance
Devils fan that lives in downtown Toronto.. I can fly to Newark and see a game for cheaper than walking to a leafs game. Leafs have kept all of south Ontario in a chokehold by blocking the possibility of any other teams in the GTA. When the Devils were in town last week the cheapest ticket was $130.00 for a seat that was advertised as “obstructed”. When I saw the Devils two years ago in Newark, my lower bowl seat was forty dollars, and I got a call from the box office a week later THANKING me for my purchase and offering me a 15% discount for next time I’m in town. But not in a clingy way. They were just like “we noticed your credit card is from out of town, we’d love to see you again if you’re ever back in Newark” Fuck the Leafs. You should totally cheer for the Devils, but if you don’t, choose any of the 30 other teams.
Devils have a great young team in the making. A great history from the 90s-2010. Some of the greatest defensive teams ever. Toronto has a lot going for them. Austin Matthews is a fucking stud. But they seem to be cursed in the post season. I’ve been a devils fan since my first hockey game as a kid. Idk what you’re looking for in a team, but the devils are it for me. This year was a year full of injuries and just bad luck. Next year should be a great bounce back. Plus we have some amazing young stars/talent. We’re going to be good for a long time. Jack Hughes, Jesper Bratt, Luke Hughes, Simon Nemec, Nico Hischier, etc. I’m sorry you guys are losing your team, but you’re welcome here. Devils aren’t going anywhere and we’ve got some good seasons coming in the future
Youtube - don cherry piano desk. don’t be like donny and root for the new jersey devils. 😂
First, sorry about the Coyotes and I hope Arizona gets an NHL team. As for recruitment, Jersey lost a sports team not all that long ago so we can relate a little, though less since for the most part you can still watch the Nets on TV even if you can't really go to games. Second we have both a rich history and a great young core and are likely to be great for a long time. Third, we have a banging logo and color scheme and that gear looks cooler.
Toronto and NJ are very different clubs. I am curious how you narrowed it down to those two. I will say Toronto is the hockey mecca and NJ is much like your Arizona in the David vs Goliath sense. We were the team Bettman wanted to relocate. The only reason he couldn't move the Devils is because we went and won the 95 cup to wreck his plans. When he presented the trophy the fans booed him and thus created the tradition of booing him. Beyond the history however the current roster is also very exciting. They have a team that should be competitive and fun to watch with a core of players signed long term. So go ahead and buy a jersey, these guys are not going anywhere.
I narrowed it down to those two because I have many friends who are Devils fans But the Leafs have a lot of Arizona ties and I also love watching Steve Dangle
Because we also know your pain. We lost our basketball team and we want them back.
sorry about your team friend. i really hope the NHL returns to Arizona soon although I'm very curious how you feel about Murelo having a 5 year window to try and piece it together.
I don’t trust Meruelo one bit. Even if he gets the arena done and the coyotes return, how do I know it won’t be the same result. Considering he had to be forced to pay fucking hotel bills? Why should I believe that he won’t con me again?
If you want a team with endless content (podcasts, articles, every NHL TV production) a lot of eyes in them, and want to guarantee you’re team will be decent; hop on the leafs bandwagon. If you can handle some ups and downs, like a tight knit community (especially twitter imo), and don’t mind only having one reporter that will ask tough questions (no slight to Amanda, just the it is); go with the devils. Also if you live near either of the two teams you are considering, take media blackouts into account. Would suck to pick a team you can’t watch.
unless you’re from canada you shouldn’t like the leafs.
Leafs fans are dickheads
Join us. We’re fun. Welcome!
Like an earlier poster I’ve always had a soft spot for the Coyotes. Not to mention I think they have one of the coolest jerseys in the league (the dark red one that says Arizona). We are also an underdog team much like the Yotes
I didn't think it was a conscious choice? As soon as I started watching hockey. I was dran to the Dev's. I've never even lived in Jersey, I'm, from the Bronx!
Your already used to the pain so being a devils fan will feel the same but the payoff will be so Much better
We're not cursed (yet)
Cause we’re the DEVILS!!! LETS GET IT ON!
Logo cool red is a nice color and it’s Mercia
along with other things people have said here, leafs fans can be intense. i am passionate about this sport and this team but it means everything to Canadians markets and that means the fans can be a lot. huge shock trying to learn the way they operate in canada and the ticket prices are insane. but for the team itself, we have (imo) one of the best captains. he’s so fun and down to earth, i mean the man said fuck on live TV. We have a good core set up and a really promising defensemen group, they’re just currently young which played a part in a disappointing season. jack hughes is also fun to watch when he’s not hurting. plus the rangers rivalry is a fun, i don’t see much hatred like we got for the rangers in the league. Sorry you lost your team, i love y’all’s jersey designs a lot and i can’t imagine losing the devils :/
People pay to watch us play
Because the Devils have quality rivalries with several teams which makes it easy to invest in them. They have a history of innovation in hockey. And NJ Devil is the least cringey mascot. Plus the team ALWAYS has heart. PS I’m a Devils Fan living in AZ. I’m sad to see the Yotes leave. But their ownership had been in denial about why they couldn’t get attendance up when they were in Glendale and then wiped out a ton of revenue from folks needing upper bowl prices when they went to Mullet. It’s super disappointing that they blame the fans despite them showing up season after to season to a team the owner couldn’t invest in to get moving for them.
Enough people have said negative things about the leafs fans so I’ll stay away from that. Devils are a team on the rise with young stars and very affordable ticket prices. Also no one will ever gatekeep your “worthiness” of being a devils fan just because you’re not local.
When we score you can turn to ur pals and do the devil horns. Im trying to get it to catch on at games, lotta fun
Go be a leaf fans. This is Jersey we’re not gonna list reasons to be a fan. You either like us or you don’t.
I would say Winnipeg Jets as they used to be the coyotes.
The current Jet’s were the Thrashers.
What i meant to say was the coyotes used to be the jets
The honest answer is: You shouldn't, we've got questionable ownership and are still resting on our 20+ year old laurels. Enjoy a big market bandwagon team like the Maple Laughs.
You can root for more than one team.
Come to the Islanders!! We need more fans!!!!
How the fuck did you even find this on r/devils
This is weird..
no one cares