Bettman and the NHL May Regret Utah Expansion as Latest Attendance Numbers Surface
It's really beautiful to see the Bell Centre so full for every Montreal Canadiens game. The Habs have had some tough seasons, yet people still show up and support the team.
In my opinion, this proves just how loyal Habs' fans are.
With the largest capacity in the NHL, it's impressive to see the arena filled to 100%.. Especially when we know how expensive the tickets are!
It shows that the experience of going to the Bell Centre is about more than just hockey.
People love the atmosphere and being there in person.
It's clear that it helps that Montreal is a city passionate about hockey.
Coyotes Relocation: Worrying Numbers for Utah (and for the Winnipeg Jets too)
When I see teams like the Winnipeg Jets or HC Utah, who are struggling to fill their arenas, it makes me realize just how lucky Montreal is to have such dedicated fans.
Even though Utah is new and the Jets are playing well this season, it doesn't seem enough to attract more fans.
Utah is averaging an NHL-worst 11,000 ticket sales per game, which also represents a league-worst 68% of available tickets. Ouch..
It's really concerning.
Would the city of Quebec have done a better job than Utah at selling tickets?
Would relocating the Coyotes to Quebec and bringing back the Nordiques have been more profitable for the NHL?
We'll never know, but it's strange to see that HC Utah is having such difficulty selling tickets in its inaugural season when everything is brand new! (Same for the Winnipeg Jets, even though the team is winning a lot)
I truly believe the Montreal Canadiens hold a special place in the hearts of Quebecers, no matter where they stand in the rankings.
Winning a Stanley Cup would certainly help maintain that, but even so, it's impressive to see so many people at the Bell Centre every night.
