Guys - as someone who knows nothing about NHL and wanting to follow a team what would be a good bet i.e exciting to watch and likely to make finals.
I watch the odd random game - btw I'm not in US or Canada.
The Blackhawks, Penguins, Ducks, Sharks, Kings, and Bruins are probably your best bets for a long playoff haul.
There's the Lightning, Canadiens, Rangers, Wild, Blues, and maybe the Flyers as a second-tier teams that make the playoffs on a consistent basis.
Up-and-comers that are on their way to being good are the Islanders, Blue Jackets, and Stars.
Coyotes need fans, though.