Its probably the best sport to watch live, but it probably also depends on the fanbase.
Even when the Bruins suck, the fan base is still pretty solid around here. The place was always pretty full if not sold out (its been sold old everygame for a couple years now). Boston has always had strong ties to hockey since it is one of the original 8.
If the fanbase for the Panthers sucks and the place is empty, you might not enjoy it.