As the 2025-26 NHL regular season winds down, fans whose teams are eliminated from contention often seek a new rooting interest. Arda Ocal’s recent ESPN piece dives into the most “bandwagon jumpable” playoff teams, ranking them based on excitement, storylines and playoff chances via Stathletes as of March 29.[1][2] These squads offer compelling narratives, from drought-busting returns to young stars lighting up the ice.
Whether you’re drawn to underdogs, superstars or historic moments, jumping on one of these bandwagons could make the postseason unforgettable. Playoff probabilities range from near-locks to intriguing long shots, setting the stage for potential upsets and deep runs.
No. 5: New York Islanders
The Islanders sit at No. 5 with 62.4% playoff odds, a franchise seemingly in reset mode led by rookie sensation Matthew Schaefer. Despite haters from rival fans in the crowded Northeast—think Rangers, Bruins, Flyers and Devils—this team has buzz.
Schaefer has shattered rookie, teenager and franchise records while winning over the Long Island faithful with his play and personality. Ocal notes he might have made the Olympics with more pro experience, highlighting his dynamite all-around game.
Imagine Schaefer guiding the Isles to the Cup Final in his debut season. That storyline alone elevates their bandwagon appeal, even amid regional rivalries.
The Islanders’ grit and Schaefer’s emergence make them a solid, if polarizing, choice for neutral fans seeking underdog energy.
No. 4: Minnesota Wild
Boasting 99.9% playoff chances, the Wild rank fourth as harbingers of a golden era for Minnesota hockey. Since 2000, they’ve won just four series, with the North Stars’ 1991 Final a faded memory.
Quinn Hughes and Kirill Kaprizov lead the charge, giving them arguably the best Cup shot on paper—despite the Central Division gauntlet in early rounds. Ocal shouts out reporter Jessi Pierce and her family as a sentimental postseason storyline.[2]
Pierce’s memory has rallied the hockey community, with teams honoring her through donations and empty press seats. This human element adds heart to the Wild’s bandwagon.
Their star power and state pride make them irresistible for fans craving a breakthrough.
No. 3: Columbus Blue Jackets
At 68.3% odds, the Blue Jackets land third, fueled by hockey passion evident in the 2025 Stadium Series. With minimal postseason success—just one epic series win—they crave May relevance.
Ohio’s NHL squad got close last year and battles now, backed by a stellar front office. Johnny Gaudreau’s enduring presence motivates a “donkey hat” celebration after a key win.
The Jackets’ resilience and fanbase loyalty offer pure, unadulterated bandwagon joy. Their path forward ties into broader playoff pushes, like those detailed in Columbus Blue Jackets season outlook analyses.
No. 2: San Jose Sharks
The Sharks’ 40.4% chances belie their skyrocketing popularity as fans’ “second favorite team.” Macklin Celebrini, post-stellar Olympics, screams future Cup winner.
Young, exciting and superstar-driven, they could shock the Avalanche in Round 1. Celebrini’s poise on big stages makes this bandwagon a thrill ride.
San Jose’s resurgence mirrors recent surprises across the league, positioning them for viral moments. Their fun factor outshines lower odds.[3]
No. 1: Buffalo Sabres
The Sabres top the list at 99.9% odds, ending a 14-year drought and reclaiming the longest pro sports playoff skid from the Jets. Buffalo, hockey-starved, deserves this triumph most.
Fans are defacing signs in celebration—“Welcome to Lindy Ruffalo”—with legendary content inbound. Ocal envisions packed streets and a “we made it back” parade to Game 1 at KeyBank Center.
No anti-Buffalo bias withstands their story. Recent buzz confirms their bandwagon dominance.[4]
Beyond the rankings: Key playoff storylines
The East wild-card race promises a photo finish, with Detroit and Ottawa facing tough schedules against Panthers, Sabres, Wild, Penguins, Flyers and Rangers. Columbus battles Carolina, while Boston tackles Florida foes post-Dallas.
Hart Trophy talk centers on McDavid (124 points), Kucherov (121) and MacKinnon (117), likely finalists tied to the scoring title.
Weekend highlights include Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins’ Mandalorian Star Wars jerseys, blending pop culture with hockey flair.
Stick taps to the NHL for honoring Jessi Pierce via GoFundMe donations and press box tributes from teams like Tampa Bay and Florida.
As playoffs near, these bandwagons highlight the NHL’s drama. For deeper dives, check 2026 Stanley Cup playoff first-round matchups projections. Jump aboard—the Cup chase awaits Buffalo, San Jose and beyond for potential glory.
Frequently Asked Questions
Par Mike Jonderson
Mike Jonderson is a passionate hockey analyst and expert in advanced NHL statistics. A former college player and mathematics graduate, he combines his understanding of the game with technical expertise to develop innovative predictive models and contribute to the evolution of modern hockey analytics.