The Avalanche drew an announced sellout crowd of 18,007 for last night's home opener against the Kings, though "not everybody embraced it." Some fans "were there for hockey, labor issues aside, and others for the 2-for-1 tickets or just to be part of an event – the first NHL game in Colorado" since April 7 (DENVER POST, 1/23).
The Oilers also sold out their home opener against the Sharks, and "any anger or bitterness over the 113-day labour dispute seemed misplaced." Fans "forgave and forgot," and the team offered merchandise and food discounts to "make amends to loyal fans." Other freebies included "free tickets, tours of the locker room, autographed jerseys and charitable giveaways" (EDMONTON JOURNAL, 1/23).
The Blackhawks drew a sellout crowd of 21,455 for their home opener against the Blues, and the CHICAGO SUN-TIMES' Rick Morrissey wrote, "Lockout? What lockout? ... All I could see was an overflowing of love for the Blackhawks." C Jonathan Toews said, "We've got amazing fans here. ... We don't take that support for granted" (CHICAGO SUN-TIMES, 1/23).
The Penguins for tonight's home opener against the Maple Leafs "have some things planned as a thank you to returning fans." C Evgeni Malkin's Hart, Lindsay and Ross trophies will be available for viewing at the Consol Energy Center concourse. Merchandise will be half price, and fans will "receive vouchers for three free concession items." The offers will be in place for the first four home games (PITTSBURGH POST-GAZETTE, 1/23).
