The NHL hasn't exactly been the top dog in the sports world of late. In fact as a major sport, the league is really slipping. Hockey fans will always be hockey fans, but this game is struggling to pull in the youth.
The NHL is no different from any other professional sporting organization in their need to generate youth appeal. All such leagues must bring in young fans in order to survive, and this is often best accomplished by promoting a poster boy.
Boxing is quickly becoming an afterthought. They haven’t been able to sell anyone since phenom Mike Tyson. Similarly, hockey has failed to secure a successful spokesperson. Mario Lemieux was a solid attempt, and he did try to do his part, but his several retirements limited his contributions.
Now along comes Sidney Crosby.
Just like they did with Wayne Gretzky, the NHL has changed its rules to become more offensive and suit the skilled players, increasing goal production. As much as traditional hockey fans despise some of the new rules, it is vital to understand the need for a little tweaking in order to put bodies in the seats.
Whether you’re a Crosby fan or not, it really shouldn't matter. As hockey fans we need support this kid and hope that he develops as an effective poster child. We need him in order for our favorite game to grow—survive, even.
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5 months ago
While Sidney Crosby is a very effective advertising chip, to some people the draw to hockey isn't a pretty boy who can pass and win face offs and score the occasional gorgeous goal.
Gretzky didn't do it alone - his face was everywhere, his name is well known, but Mario Lemieux's name is pretty household too. Yzerman is a name most sports fans know, even if they can't spell it. Roy is an absolute legend.
Sidney Crosby can't do it alone. The NHL of the 80s and 90s was so successful not because of it's star players, but in part to real rivalries developing and an exciting breed of defensive hockey that became boring because of New Jersey and the neutral zone trap.
The Gretzky - Lemieux "rivalry" was talked about. Colorado quickly developed a rivalry with Detroit. Detroit formed another with Dallas. Why are these three teams not in the same division? All three hate each other.
The best way to market hockey would be to install divisions with real rivalries - not forced geographical mumbo jumbo. Remember the days when Detroit and Toronto had their fierce rivalry?
You also have the star players forming rivalries - Sakic vs Yzerman, Forsberg vs Fedorov, Osgood and Roy, I mean, it was an ideal situation.
Ovechkin and Crosby could develop such a rivalry. But imagine if the Pens and Caps played six times a year instead of four. What if they were duking it out for a division championship?
I'd watch.
5 months ago
Im sorry Cory Cannon, but you are mistaken. Crosby, unfortunately lacks the off ice personality that has become so vital to marketing other major sports. Skill is something that does not readily translate from enthusiast to vague observer. The NHL needs more than a talented player to increase viewership/interest. Find a likable, talented player who can at least seem interesting(i.e. funny or relatable) in a ten minute interview with Jay Leno and you've got yourself a starting point for reinvigorating a desimated fan base.
5 months ago
I agree with Steve. You are wrong. Sidney Crosby is not the player to exploit the NHL. That player is Alexander Ovechkin. He is way more upbeat and enthusiastic.
2 months ago
yeah right let Ovechkin be the face in the NHL...then professional curling will be aired over it.
Go sidney
Go pens
2 months ago
as good as crosby is, which is great....he is a diver and a whiner at every call...i was extremely happy to see him beat the rangers though
Ovechkin plays hard and doesnt bitch
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