Adding to that simmering feeling of dread is the repeated e-mail updates, ads on the scoreboard and new banner ad on the website advertising that tickets were still available for the next three games. Now how is that possible? Those next three games are on Friday against an Original Six foe, Monday against Sean Avery's new team and Saturday the 25th against the Cole Harbour Queen Cindy Crosby. Their rotating ad on the homepage links you to a Ticketmaster page where you buy tickets directly it doesn't take you to the TicketExchange where season ticket holders are selling their own seats. That means that there are even more seats available that went unsold.
As of 1 a.m. on Thursday night/Friday morning there were 868 tickets for the Leafs, 1,029 for the Stars and 491 for the Pens available on the Exchange.
It is utterly shocking to me that 1 - there would be tickets still available for those games and 2 - the Rangers would have to aggressively advertise to fill the seats. These aren't the Panthers who have to give tickets away for free. These aren't the Coyotes who made things as family friendly and wallet friendly to get anyone to come to their home opener. And this isn't Nashville; the beer is cheaper here.
What could it be? Rangers are 5-1 so it can't be performance related (unless anyone else got as physically ill as I did watching the Buffalo game). Is it name recognition? No, because Toronto Maple Leafs, Sean Avery and Sidney Crosby are three of the biggest names in the game. Is it the crowded New York sports market? No, the Yankees and Mets didn't make the playoffs, the Knicks haven't started their regular season yet and neither New Jersey-based football team is setting the NFL on fire right about now. Since I refuse to think that New York's taste for hockey is waning, it leaves one thing: ticket costs. The prices are just too exorbitant in this difficult economic climate. With the NYSE index looking like a Six Flags roller coaster ride, hockey fans are finding the Garden's ticket prices too costly for their limited disposable income to handle. While I am not going to advocate cutting ticket prices - I am not completely delusional - I do think that the Rangers can fix this. You know how?
*Increase game-night giveaways. The only giveaway thus far was a magnetic schedule before the Devil game. People like free stuff and the Rangers have no promotions listed on their home page and are notorious for not doing much of anything in recent years aside from schedules and cheesy towels during the playoffs.
*Increase contests. Everyone likes to win something and the chance to win something big is always nice. And I am not talking about a signed Petr Prucha stick for winning the human puck race or pedal car race during the intermissions. I am talking about seat upgrades, tickets to future games or even game-worn jerseys.
*And the easiest and cheapest way: increase the drama. Nowhere on the Rangers website is it mentioned that Sean Avery is coming to town. A fan favourite who left town to get a big contract, Sean can easily be set up as a villain and as Avery himself has mentioned, this league needs villains. The same goes for golden boy Crosby, who is kinda good and has performed some last-second heroics before in MSG.
Now I am not being Chicken Little and crying that the sky is falling, but I am saying that there is cause for concern and the matter needs to be closely watched going forward. The Rangers have artist renditions of the upcoming renovation to the Garden standing up in the lobby and unless they do something soon to ensure fans keep coming, they may have to bust out the erasers.
"Is The Garden In Trouble? The Challenges and Future of Madison Square Garden"
Madison Square Garden (MSG) stands as one of the most iconic and historic sports and entertainment venues in the world. It has hosted countless legendary events, from championship boxing matches and concerts to NBA games and hockey clashes. However, beneath the glitz and glamour lies a complex tale of challenges and uncertainties. In this article, we will explore the current state of Madison Square Garden, the issues it faces, and the potential future scenarios for this hallowed arena. We will also answer frequently asked questions (FAQs) to shed light on the enigmatic world of MSG.
A Brief History of Madison Square Garden
Origins and Renovations
Madison Square Garden, often referred to as "The Garden," has a storied history dating back to its opening in 1879. The venue has undergone multiple renovations and relocations, with its current location at 4 Pennsylvania Plaza in Manhattan. This is actually the fourth incarnation of MSG, and it officially opened its doors in 1968.
Sporting and Entertainment Events
Over the years, Madison Square Garden has been a magnet for sporting events, hosting NBA games featuring the New York Knicks, NHL games with the New York Rangers, and countless high-profile boxing matches, including the "Fight of the Century" between Muhammad Ali and Joe Frazier in 1971. Additionally, MSG has welcomed music legends and hosted memorable concerts and shows.
The Challenges Facing Madison Square Garden
Aging Infrastructure
One of the primary challenges facing Madison Square Garden is its aging infrastructure. While renovations have occurred, the core structure remains decades old. This raises questions about the venue's long-term viability and the need for further substantial upgrades.
Competition from New Arenas
MSG faces competition from newer and more modern arenas in the New York City area. Venues like the Barclays Center in Brooklyn and the Prudential Center in Newark, New Jersey, have attracted events and performances that might have once been exclusive to MSG.
Economic Challenges
Economic factors, including the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, have put pressure on the venue. The closure of live events during the pandemic had significant financial ramifications, and MSG is working to recover and adapt to a changing landscape.
Regulatory and Zoning Issues
As a prominent structure in New York City, Madison Square Garden is subject to zoning regulations and potential redevelopment plans for the surrounding area. These factors could influence the arena's future and potential expansion or relocation.
The Potential Future of Madison Square Garden
Renovations and Upgrades
Madison Square Garden has a history of renovations and upgrades to modernize the facility. Future projects may focus on enhancing the fan experience, improving technology infrastructure, and addressing structural concerns.
Adaptive Usage
MSG's adaptability has been a key to its longevity. It may continue to evolve as a multi-purpose venue, hosting a diverse range of events beyond traditional sports and concerts, including esports tournaments, award shows, and cultural events.
Preservation and Legacy
There is a strong desire among fans and preservationists to maintain the legacy and historic significance of Madison Square Garden. Any future developments or changes are likely to take this into account.
FAQs about Madison Square Garden
1. What is the seating capacity of Madison Square Garden?
Madison Square Garden has a seating capacity of approximately 20,000 for basketball and hockey games. However, the capacity can vary depending on the type of event and seating configuration.
2. Has Madison Square Garden ever been relocated?
Yes, Madison Square Garden has been relocated several times in its history. The current MSG, located at 4 Pennsylvania Plaza in Manhattan, opened in 1968.
3. What are some of the most iconic events held at Madison Square Garden?
Madison Square Garden has hosted numerous iconic events, including championship boxing matches like Ali vs. Frazier, historic concerts by artists like Elvis Presley and Led Zeppelin, and memorable sports moments such as the New York Knicks' NBA championships.
4. How is Madison Square Garden addressing sustainability and environmental concerns?
MSG has made efforts to address environmental concerns by implementing sustainability initiatives. These include energy-efficient lighting, waste reduction programs, and eco-friendly transportation options for attendees.
5. Are there any plans to relocate Madison Square Garden?
As of my last knowledge update in September 2021, there were discussions and proposals regarding the potential relocation or renovation of Madison Square Garden. However, no definitive plans for relocation had been confirmed at that time. The arena's future may have evolved since then, and it's advisable to refer to the latest news for updates on any potential changes.
Madison Square Garden remains a symbol of New York City and a historic venue that has witnessed countless unforgettable moments. However, it faces a combination of challenges, including aging infrastructure, competition from newer venues, economic pressures, and regulatory considerations. The future of Madison Square Garden is likely to involve a combination of renovations, adaptability to changing entertainment trends, and a commitment to preserving its rich legacy.
As fans and stakeholders watch with anticipation, the destiny of Madison Square Garden continues to be a topic of interest and discussion, reflecting the enduring allure and importance of this iconic arena in the heart of Manhattan.
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