For over 30 years, the winner of the National Hockey League’s top prize has gone to an American team. It’s a sorry legacy for a country where ice hockey is not just a sport, but part of the national identity. About 40% of players in the NHL, across all teams, are Canadian - more than any other country.

Last year, the Oilers flopped during the final game of the seven-game series against the Florida Panthers.

It’s a sore point for many Canadians that the league’s most die-hard fans have gone so long without a trophy, and yet remain willing to spend big money and travel big distances to support their team.