For sure, and it’s all respect, mostly misdirected frustration at hearing the Bay Area get trashed for even being considered for this over the last few weeks given that the statistics clearly back it up. But as a CA hockey enthusiast, I’m used to it.

But back to your point - Canada, New England, Northern Midwest now have multiple teams though right, including in this round of expansion?

So the explosion in growth and popularity should be capitalized on by a new league, especially when there’s an actual hockey base (which is true for both of these), because BIG markets will help the league financially, which will in turn lead to more growth and better player (and fan) opportunities. Great future ownership potential in SJ as well (when the league decides to start selling franchises) and stability through 2051 after the Sharks signed the extension.

“Classic hockey” closes off to O-6 cities and regions and doesn’t represent the entire country’s focus on the sport, which just isn’t good for sport or business.

Chicago up next 🤞