An NHL franchise now is valued at an average of $2.1 billion, with the Toronto Maple Leafs worth double that, according to research compiled by Sportico.

The Leafs, for the fifth straight year, top the NHL team valuation list, now carrying a $4.25 billion valuation. They are followed by the New York Rangers ($3.65 billion), Montreal Canadiens ($3.3 billion), Boston Bruins ($3 billion) and Los Angeles Kings ($2.96 billion).

The average NHL team value has increased by 17 percent, or $2.1 billion — impressive, but still lagging other major sports in three-year growth rates, according to Sportico. The NBA value is up 78 percent, with the NFL rising by 72 percent and MLB franchises up 22 percent.

Sportico reported the Maple Leafs lead the NHL in terms of gate receipts, sponsorships and media revenue, despite not having won the Stanley Cup since 1967.

In the ranking, six teams were valued at less than $1.5 billion, with the Columbus Blue Jackets on the bottom rung at $1.3 billion.

Next-lowest on the list were the Winnipeg Jets ($1.33 billion), Ottawa Senators ($1.34 billion), Buffalo Sabres ($1.36 billion), Utah Mammoth ($1.44 billion) and San Jose Sharks ($1.49 billion).

–Field Level Media