NHL could ruin expansion business, says Hockey Insider

“That can’t happen this time.”

HockeyFeed
HockeyFeed
Published 6 years ago
NHL could ruin expansion business, says Hockey Insider
KeyStone Press

The Vancouver Canucks and the Los Angeles Kings played two preseason games in China, and the adventure is already over. Both clubs have made their way to America, to finish their preparation for the season opener. 

What will happen to the potential expansion project in Europe or Asia will be determined by how the NHL acts in the coming years, reports Sportsnet's John Shannon. 

"If you’re going to go to China, commit to it. Don’t be half-baked. Don’t expect six days in September to suffice as “growing the game.” Do it, and do it well. And do it beyond 2022. Don’t disappear after the Olympics. If this market is as fertile as many suggest, it means continuing to play games, and create awareness for years — YEARS — to come," Shannon writes. 

Shannon warns the NHL of past mistakes and is hoping the league's management will invest time and effort in what they have created in China. 

"All to often we have seen enthusiastic plans followed by corporate apathy. That can’t happen this time," he concludes.

Source: Sportsnet