Question for KHL fans

[razor ray]

I just started to try to follow the KHL and its teams. My question is why hasn't Russia and European Countries form a NHL type league? Its seems like the KHL has done a great job with Russia and a few other countries but what about cities like this:

Stockholm Sweden (14,000 arena)
Helsinki Finland (14,000 arena)
Bern Switzerland (14,000 arena)
Berlin Germany (14,200 arena)
Prague Czech (17,400 arena)


Here are 5 cities that could make a huge splash for the KHL. I noticed some of the KHL teams have arenas that hold 5k or less. Take a few of those small market teams out and put these larger cities in and you a making major strides and could get some big-time TV deals. I do not know European hockey or the dynamics that come with it but this so any feedback is appreciated.

[SvenskaRiga]

Sweden: Their Federation blocked a KHL club

Finland: Espoo Blues have been in rumours countless times though it never really seems to go anywhere. I know Espoo isnt exactly Helsinki but still, Greater Helsinki.

Switzerland: They have an upcoming project, however its unclear if the Swiss Federation would allow it, the IIHF has already said they will never back it. As well, unless you are getting SC Bern, I just cant see it working with a start up club.

Germany: Their Federation has been ok with a KHL club as long as they support Germany ice hockey but unless its Eisbären Berlin, the KHL club would stand little chance.

Czech Republic: Federation has already blocked a KHL club.

Start up clubs in Europe dont seem to work all that great, especially with dealing against clubs local fans never heard of before, also cross league play never seems to draw much attention at all. The KHL isnt a gate driven league, so arena size isnt that much of a problem, besides the KHL has already put in place a standard for all clubs for new venues or clubs wishing to join the league based on city population, the smaller arenas will be weeded out over time. I personally dont care for a pan-European league, I would of just stayed in the old Soviet bloc, if you want cross league play, the European Trophy can be fixed for that.

[MarkGio]

It's a shame really. It would make for some good hockey.

[Fulcrum]

The book hasn't been written yet. I don't think that KHL will be easily discouraged and time and good business practice will always attract people.

KHL must continue improving, they are still far from an attractive package for clubs from Sweden and Finland, but if they do improve, which is not unrealistic, it would be attractive.

Also, it's too early to tell whether or not Lev has been a success or a failure. They need 3-5 season to see if it's appealing or not. + Lev really need a new, better looking arena, but that's half the KHL.