Why doesn't Canada care about Winnipeg? Honest question. I'm not Canadian.
I wouldn't say "Canada" (like the poster above noted - not a monolith) doesn't care about Winnipeg, but typically, Canadians have a favorite team and once they're out, a "good series" is about as invested as it gets, with only mild enthusiasm attached to teams that remain. Remember as well, it's arbitrary at this point, choosing a team to support once yours is out.
I'm a Leafs fan and with them out it's tough to get behind another team, though Vegas is a great story. For years, I've categorized myself as a Red Wings "fan" secondarily to the Leafs. And it's sincere. I like the Wings a lot. So, there's no Toronto, no Detroit...Winnipeg has Laine and Laine vs Matthews is kind of a rivalry unto itself. The Capitals are kind of a meh club to me and they ousted us last season, so, Washington isn't it for me either. Nashville...Good team, but, no emotional attachment. The Lightning, same thing really. Leaves Vegas, and even then, it's curiosity more than allegiance.
So as a Canadian do I care about Winnipeg getting into the conference Finals as something that represents my Canadian identity? Well, in the same vein, HNIC represents my Canadian identity to a degree, including the American clubs.From a national identity perspective, there's an element that inclines but that emerges in international competitions. I knew a lot of Canadians whose favorite clubs were Chicago and the Islanders (back in the 80s) and Minnesota and wore the sweaters during road hockey.
Certainly Canadians care. But it'll vary from Winnipeg and all points leading there.
What I think most Canadians can agree enthusiastically with in this year's playoffs is that Brad Marchand is no longer in them.