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Originally Posted by the-rasta-masta
When Bettman makes comments that the Flames used to write cheques for revenue sharing and now receive them, it doesn't necessarily mean that they are losing money does it? The revenue sharing program really only serves to even out the playing field year If I'm looking at it correctly, the Flames could still be making a profit each year and receiving revenue sharing from some teams that are really doing well. Say 20 team in the NHL make a profit and 10 don't, well there are still 5 teams that are receiving a cheque that are already profitable.
The team has made the playoffs twice in the past 8 years (soon to be 9 likely). Prior to that they made the playoffs 5 straight seasons including a renewal/boost of fan interest from the 2004 Cup run. Of course they were making more money in those years. Is it really the old building that is making the Flames a team receiving a cheque or is it the product on the ice?
I was down at the Flames game in Nashville this February and couldn't believe how much better the Predators Arena and Marketing staff were at getting the crowd going, and generating a buzz in the rink. I think the Flames really miss the mark in their marketing and in-game contests/etc...
I would love for the Flames and city to find some common ground and move towards a new arena. It just feels that the Flames have really not acted in the best interest of anybody but themselves and have turned this into a bit of PR nightmare for themselves. I truly believe the Flames could focus on improving their own product and stadium entertainment to jumpstart some revenue within the current building, and then continue negotiations in good faith with the city to get something done.
The "I'm taking my ball and going home" attitude of the Flames right now is quite disappointing and juvenile.
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Flames have done themselves zero favors with their product they have put on the ice at home. This whole year has been a big F U to the fans. Bettman has had zero problems bailing out the Panthers, Coyotes and Hurricanes for the past 10-15 years. But hey, let's claim that the Flames have no hope for a new arena going forward and will move. The possibility of the Flames moving when multiple teams in this league have been on life support from is beyond pathetic.