Whilst American and Australian sports are worlds apart in some cases, clubs down under could take a leaf out of Sin City's book.

The population in Las Vegas is supposed to be transient, which to an extent it is. But the Golden Knights have already won the admiration of scores of locals.

Among them is Sidney, a Los Angeles native that grew up a Kings fan but jumped ship when a team was established in his new home city.

The Golden Knights proved to be a revelation in their first season in the league, and you can bet the crowds will be here again next season.

"Who would've thought this would happen in Vegas?" Sidney said.

"I've been coming to this city since about 1986, never in my wildest dreams did I think I'd be coming to a hockey game in this city.

"This is awesome. This is amazing."

When it comes to fan engagement on game day, few sports do it better than ice hockey.

Thousands packed the arena forecourt before the game to listen to music, dance, sink beers and talk all things hockey. It helped there were a few bars right next door, creating an atmosphere sorely lacking at the ghost town that is Canberra Stadium.

The buzz never stops, with music, cheers, and battle towels making for an electric atmosphere. It doesn't end there either.

"Like that Capitals fans? We've got showgirls baby, you don't have that - you've got Donald Trump," Sidney laughed.

Now they have the Stanley Cup, and there is already talk of the coveted trophy coming down under after it makes its first visit to Washington, with Australian Nathan Walker on the roster.

The Sydney product could follow in the footsteps of Patty Mills and Aron Baynes, who brought the NBA championship trophy to Canberra in 2014.

*Caden Helmers is in Las Vegas as a guest of Duco Events.