I lived in DC for a few years and began following hockey while I was up there. In spite of the absolutely incompetent management of the NHL, the game itself can be magnificent. I'd argue that there's nothing in sports more exciting than an overtime game in the Stanley Cup playoffs -- sudden death, up and down the ice, the game can always end at any moment. It's fantastic. (Unless your team is involved, and then it's agonizing.)
I'd love to have a UT sweater to wear down to the Thrashers games. I hope they go up for sale.
(While I watch them choke their way out of a playoff spot. Agh.)