The Red Wings tonight play their first regular-season game at the new Little Caesars Arena, and the team "will roll out the red carpet" before taking on the Wild. Pregame, fans "can see current players and alumni walk the carpet through the Chevrolet Plaza to enter the arena." The plaza also will "host a pregame party with interactive games, live music and food and drinks for ticketed and non-ticketed guests." On the arena's grounds before the game, fans "will have the opportunity to take photos, test their hockey skills and win prizes" (
CRAINSDETROIT.com, 10/4).
Red Wings coach Jeff Blashill said of tonight's atmosphere, "I assume it's going to be unreal. ... We got to make sure we put on quite a show" (MLIVE.com, 10/4). Architect HOK said that about 19,600 of the arena's 20,000 seats are "closer to the action than in any other 19,600 seats in the NHL" (DETROIT NEWS, 10/5). The building's 60 suites offer a "sleek lodge" feel, with "faux leather seats and loveseats in what almost looks like a small living room" (DETROIT NEWS, 10/5). The DETROIT NEWS goes with the header, "Red Wings Will Live Like Kings In Little Caesars Arena."
None of the "preseason games were sold out, with all four about half to 2/3 capacity" (DETROIT NEWS, 10/5).
