NHL Playoffs 2012: The Best NHL Playoff Commercials of All Time

Every year, the Stanley Cup Playoffs provides us with memorable moments on television. Most of that is the game action, but during whistles and in between periods, many networks, cable and sports channels have displayed commercials to keep us stimulated when there is a lull on the ice.

Whether motivating, enthralling or amusing, the NHL playoff season comes up with some advertising clips for the ages. In the last 10-15 years, there have certainly been some dandies.

Here is a list of some of the best commercials we have been lucky to see during the NHL's second season.

2008: "We're into the Playoffs"

"Bruins, the Bruins what? Playoffs, the playoffs what?"

In 2008, NESN provided Bruins fans with a chuckler. Nothing like a group of kids to get you pumped up for the playoffs. 

A commercial that went under the radar, but terrific none the less.

2007: "It's Why We Play"

If you need to get a glimpse of what the Stanley Cup means to NHL players, look no further.

In 2007, TSN began the playoff season with a bang with this preview.

2012: "Because It's the Cup"

NBC has gone with the theme of "Because it's the Cup" in 2012. It's been brilliant.

All versions focus on the many traditions that diehard fans go through to follow their beloved warriors. 

If you're a passionate hockey fan, it fills the soul.

2008: "Cup Raise"

In 2008, the NHL put together a terrific montage of past Cup winners in the process of lifting the ultimate prize.

A lot of great clips of a lot of great players.  

Good stuff.

2010: "There Are No Words"

When the Chicago Blackhawks won the Stanley Cup in 2010, Jonathan Toews was asked what it felt like. His response, "It's like the commercial."

The commercial he was referring to was the 2010 "No Words" clip that captured Cup winners who were so choked up that they had little to say.

Terrific!

2010: "History Will Be Made"

The 2010 postseason also ushered in the "History will be Made" theme.

The various clips showcased critical moments and then played them in reverse to see how the play developed.

Always good to put a "What if" catch phrase to seal the deal.

What a commercial this was.

2011: "History Will Be Made"

If it ain't broke, don't fix it.  The NHL kept the same them in 2011.

A different look and an different tune, but still the same magic.

2001: "Cup Crazy"

The year Ray Bourque won the Stanley Cup in 2001, this montage came through your television screens and it was splendid.

1998: "Understanding Playoff Hockey"

Man, this kid was so mean. I know there is some bad blood in the postseason, but I hope the players don't go this low when they chirp at each other.

Either way, this one was solid.

1997: "For the Home Team"

In 1997, Sports Channel in New Jersey put a good one out for the Devils. 

Very quaint, this one was a stitch.

2009: "Every Moment"

The year the Pittsburgh Penguins claimed their third Stanley Cup, the playoffs began with this trailer.

The sights and sounds of hockey. Simple and to the point.