Hockey and soccer and very similar sports in both movement and strategy, and popularity. Hockey really isn't very popular in America, Stanley Cup Finals generally get around a 2 share, worst of the big four by a LOT.
And what ratings does the MLS final draw? Oh, that's right, UHF stations normally don't show up in the Neilsen Ratings...Hockey is more popular in America because it involves more strategy and guys kicking each others' rear ends and losing teeth. Soccer remains popular with the EuroPeons and other assorted socialists, and Third Worlders who can't afford to buy equipment.