Tampa Bay Lightning Game

Just recently, I had the privilege of going to a Tampa Bay Lightning vs. Florida Panthers game (Thanks, Uncle Dan) I was on vacation in Florida. The Lightning lost 3-2 to the Panthers in a shootout. This was my third time ever being to an NHL game (the other two were Red Wings games), and it is truly so much different than just watching it on television. It was also way different going to a hockey game in Florida than in Detroit.

Lightning Bolts

First of all, when we drove by, we realized there was a lot of activity outside the stadium. There were vendors, games and even a stage with a live band. You can’t do this in a lot of other places because it is cold and/or snowing. It’s different from T.V. because there is so much energy in the arena. The Lightning even created their own lightning. At the beginning of every period they would have a rod hanging down from the ceiling that would shoot bolts of lightning (see picture). Every time Tampa scored the building would erupt in cheers and the sound of the goal horn. There were many other things that created energy like the live organ, cheerleaders, a t-shirt cannon, and the fans themselves.

Another thing I noticed was how much money goes into each and every game. First and foremost, the buildings are massive. I don’t even know how much some of them cost, or how many square feet they are. Second, the cooling (especially in Florida), they have to keep the ice frozen, without freezing out the guests (something small town rinks struggle with). They also have the biggest Jumbotron I have ever seen, and largest in the NHL. The main way to pay for all of this is of course sponsors. They are everywhere! Looking around, it’s hard to find a square foot that isn’t sponsored by someone, or something. And then, as if that’s not enough publicity there are contests every T.V. timeout…if you can make this shot from center ice you get $500, or if you text in the right answer you get a free hockey stick.

Going to a professional hockey game is a really cool experience.  If you ever have the chance to go to a game, I would highly recommend it.

NHL's new conference alignment

Starting next season, the NHL will have four new conferences. They will have conference A, B, C, D, instead of the now East and West, however, it will be a lot different. Now there will be no divisions inside the conferences since they are already so small. I love this, partially because I am a Wings fan, because it lets teams like the Red Wings and Jets play against teams in their own time zone, and closer to them. The one thing I don't like about it is that it will destroy a few great rivalries, such as the Red Wings/Avalanche and the Bruins/Rangers, that fans have come to love. By far I think the biggest problem comes in the playoffs. Two conferences have eight teams, while the other two only have seven. This could create a big problem as far as chances of making the playoffs goes. So, as with everything there are ups and there are downs to this, but I think (just like the NHL does) the pros outweigh the cons. Having teams closer to their common opponents is a huge benefit to fans and players.

Blackhawks vs. Heat

A lot of of people have been discussing whose winning streak is more impressive. As of yesterday, the Miami Heat have been on a 13 game win streak. Meanwhile, the Chicago Blackhawks have yet to lose in regulation since the season started with a 19-0-3 record. Personally, I think the Blackhawk's win streak is more impressive. Everyone has their own opinion, but I think coming off of a lockout with a shortened training camp and still not losing without going into an overtime or shootout is amazing. I understand, they have lost in this streak, but it has been in extra time and, the streak is longer. I agree that the Heat haven't lost at all in the past 13 games, but this in the middle of the season, so they have had time to get in form. This is my opinoin, what's yours?