NEW YORK -- The New York Rangers are the most valuable NHL franchise at $1.2 billion, taking the top spot on the Forbes list for the first time since 2004.
The magazine said Tuesday that Montreal is second at $1.18 billion, followed by Toronto at $1.15 billion. The Maple Leafs had been the most valuable team since 2005, but they've reached the playoffs only once since 2006 and their 13-year home sellout streak ended in March.
Chicago, winner of three of the last six Stanley Cups, is fourth at $925 million, with Boston next at $750 million.