The Chicago Blackhawks used to be one of the NHL’s least popular franchises, but after a 10-year run of success and adulation, they have achieved a remarkable new milestone.
According to Forbes Magazine’s newest valuation of NHL teams, the Blackhawks are now worth a cool $1 billion, making them just the fourth NHL team to achieve that milestone. The billion-dollar valuation represents an eight percent increase over a year ago, and puts the Blackhawks as the league’s fourth-most valuable team.
The magazine credits the Blackhawks’ financial success to their attendance, leading the league in that category since the 2008-09 season. They also have excellent local TV ratings, and they have no debt on their books thanks to their ownership of the United Center along with the Chicago Bulls.
The New York Rangers remain the league’s most valuable team, checking in at $1.5 billion. The Toronto Maple Leafs are just behind them, with a value of $1.4 billion, and the Montreal Canadiens are third at $1.25 billion. The Boston Bruins round out the top five with an $890 million valuation.
The Bears remain the most valuable sports team in Chicago, with a valuation of $2.85 billion according to Forbes. The Cubs are nipping at their heels, as they are now worth $2.68 billion.
