NHL or NBA Playoffs: Which is more fantastic?

Patrick : John, good topic suggestion. With that, you done earned the right to kick us off. What d’you got?

John: Overall, the NHL Playoffs are better than the NBA Playoffs because a large number of the NHL Playoffs are won by one goal; plus, many go into overtime. I also think it’s more difficult to point out which NHL games should be deemed instant classics, because there’re so many great games. Whereas, with the NBA Playoffs, it’s tougher, what with all the blowouts—games that are decided very quickly, and by a ton of points.

Russ: I don’t know, John. I believe the NBA wins handsdown, versus the NHL. From what I can tell, the NBA has many more fans than the NHL does. And, of course, if we’re talking this year only, then it’s an easy choice, considering the Bulls are in the play-in tournament, and thus have a shot at making the “real” playoffs in one of the final two spots.

Patrick : On a quick slidein, fellas, I, personally, enjoy the NBA and its playoffs season more than the NHL, but that’s because I’m more a basketball fan than I am a hockey fan. I mean, when the Hawks were in it, man, I found myself watching everywhere I could. Of course, I was watching only the Blackhawks, but I did watch.

Donald: Look, I don’t know much about hockey in relation to my embrace of the NBA and its playoffs, so, with that, I’m less willing to choose NHL over NBA. However, if keeping it bigger than just my love of the NBA game, then I can’t give an edge to either. Are we just figuring who’s the biggest in popularity?

Patrick : Actually, when it was suggested as a topic, I believe we were going with a general “Which is better?” With that, it’s whatever each of us thought when we heard “better.” But, Don, you make a good point. Plus, I think the fellas somewhat squoze the theme out of this: That the fanbase is a big factor.

Donald: All right, so, both of them—the NHL and the NBA have huge fanbases. I’d almost guess it’s fairly close—at least in the States. Now, because I believe the NBA is so popular all across the world—more than I would think about the NHL—I could give the nod in that sense.

John: True. And talking about the current year again, the Bulls making the playoffs this season’ll generate extra buzz and, seemingly, give the NBA the nod over the NHL. However, that’s not enough for me to give over my “vote.”

Russ: I can dig that, John. Let me add, too, that another reason I have to give my love to the NBA is the household names. All over the world, fans of all ages can name NBA stars; for example, LeBron, Joel Embiid, Ja Morant, KD, etc. Now, ask anyone to name just two popular hockey stars, and it may not get done. Perhaps that person’ll name a star from their home team, but that’s it. Another thing: I’ve no idea who won the Stanley Cup last year. I know it wasn’t the Blackhawks!

John: Good point. It’s tougher, though, for hockey, in my opinion, based on how often victory’s not decided by the higher seed; in the NBA, the highest seeds almost always seem to handle business.

Donald: Tough topic, fellas. I know that, this year, I’m gonna watch ‘em both—well, a lil’bit of hockey—and I’m gonna appreciate both.

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Vendors Russell Adams, John Hagan and Donald Morris chat about the world of sports with Executive Assistant Patrick Edwards.