I don't play hockey but I'm definitely a spectator and a fan, kind of a nerd about it really. I'll analyze the hell out of games as i'm watching them, the group-think of the teams and how they interact and use aggression to throw each other off. I think it's the most exciting sport, the athleticism and cooperation blows my mind.
I also find the sounds extremely calming. the sliding on ice, the clacking of sticks, the occasionally impact into the boards. It's the most beautiful sounding sport. In general it seems to calm a restless mind for me to watch hockey. even when I feel like I can't pay attention to anything I can still watch hockey.
I've lived in both Missouri and Washington state, so naturally I'm a fan of both the Blues and the Kraken. However, for whatever reason, I'll always appreciate the Bruins too even though I've only lived in Boston very briefly.