Quote:
Originally Posted by jaydorn
 I just straight up don't get the rational behind Vegas. The NHL as a whole can't compete against against NBA/MLB/NFL in many markets, and they think they can trump a dozen Cirque du Soleil shows, Garth Brooks, Celine Dion, Brittany Spears for entertainment dollars?
Even if we say an MGM is throwing money at the team hand over foot for every seat, the fact is empty seats don't buy beer/food/merchandise. |
Almost two million Canadians per year visit Vegas, with Torontonians, Calgarians and Edmontonians leading the way, accounting for almost 40% of all international visitors. If Las Vegas joins the league, there is a good chance they'll be put into the Pacific Division, where three Canadian teams also reside. Two of Canada's top Las Vegas draws (Calgary and Edmonton) would get to play four or five games against Vegas in this format, not including perennial division contenders (ugh, hate to say it) Vancouver Canucks. So 6-8 games of the 40 home games are reserved for strong Canadian markets with tourist dollars to spend. I would also hazard a bet that regional rivalries with Phoenix, Los Angeles and Anaheim are not out of the question if things take off - and many, many people make the drives to Vegas from those cities.
This is in addition to the Las Vegas Wranglers averaging about 4500 per game in the 2013-2014 season. I can only image that number doubles with an NHL franchise.
I think they'll be fine IMO.