[thombo]

I've been under the impression that hockey was popular primarily in the NE US(this according to my Dad/formerly of BuffaloNY).When it was announced TB would get a franchise,i assumed it would flop just like soccer.Most of the hockey fans i know here in Tampa Bay are northern transplants whose enthusiasm borders on fanatical.I work with a few.They don't just attend games,but they sink massive amts of $$$$ into autographed sticks,pucks,jerseys,trading cards,.....

[Dan from Michigan]

Tampa has a lot of Michiganders which helps. Same with Dallas to a lesser extent.

I still don't understand Nashville, Phoenix, Atlanta, and a 2nd team in Florida. No offense to the fans there, but those aren't massive hockey markets, especially compared to Winnepeg.