We only have two cities that can realy compete with the NHL dollars and numbers (Toronto and Montreal). Other cities are too small and less willing to put up the big bucks.
On a more personal side - I don't understand the importance of the NHL... What is it about a team that make them your team?? The only thing is that you're paying them.
With the Olympics (and other events) the team really is your team - the Canadian team is made up of Canadians (as goes for any team). There is more pride here.
And as for hockey... Canada is born and raised in hockey.
your list of cities caught me off guard considering the hockey history and the wha years. from 2001 census @ wiki
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_th ... _in_Canadaothers would seem to qualify-
Vancouver, Ottawa–Gatineau, Calgary, Edmonton, Quebec City (Lévis), Winnipeg, Hamilton
while marginally smaller, would certainly attract the interest of a higher percentage of the locals for attendance, garner a higher tv viewership, and sell way more team products (jerseys, hats, team pictures....)
green bay has a pop of 102,000 and one of the most successful teams in pro sports.
a google of the commissioner claims this to be a marketing strategy-
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gary_Bettmanif true, it is shortsighted and sad.
pro sports have a trickle down effect. facilities, equipment, instruction, and public support/involvement are better if there is a pro team to associate with. that appears to be the idea behind having a franchise in nashville and not in edmonton.
great pics! really, is anything better than watching your kids get the thrill of life?
