Thought this might make for an interesting discussion, especially with the possibility of the Islanders eventually moving to Brooklyn, and since we have a number of fans in the base here with Russian ties.
It looks like the KHL is planning on hosting exhibition matches in Brooklyn once the Barclays Center is finished. Not surprising, what with the Prokhorov connection and all. I doubt these games will sell out, but I wouldn't be surprised if they drew a few thousand fans, myself among them.
Here's a quote from KHL head honcho Alexander Medvedev.
Quote:
"I had a good meeting with the head of the NHLPA, Gary Bettman and Bill Daly, discussed many important questions. I watched two games: New Jersey Devils vs. Anaheim Ducks and the New York Rangers vs. Chicago. We decided that when the basketball club [the New Jersey Nets, owned by Russian billionaire Mikhail Prokhorov] finishes building its arena in Brooklyn, KHL Legends Game and regular season games will be held there. We are continuing to improve the relationship between the KHL and the NHL. I am hoping that the situation with [Alex] Radulov will not spoil it."
Depending on the price, it could certainly be an interesting experience. Probably a chance to see a few older players that won't be coming back to the NHL.
I'll go just because its hockey haha. I'll also have my fingers crossed that I'd get a chance to see Hasek (my all time favorite player) one more time.
Before you say that you'd go please take a look at the list of offensive leaders in KHL this year. I exluded Radulov as it is a given that he IS a superstar but by that time he might already be a part of the NHL family. The names that in the list are what I thought to be the most recognizable:
Hmmm I don't think so. The Isles are going to be playing pre-season games there.
I think it'll seat around 14,500 for hockey, which is fine for pre-season/exhibitions but not really suitable for a permanent home. Also, I'd def be down to see a KHL game or two.
Before you say that you'd go please take a look at the list of offensive leaders in KHL this year. I exluded Radulov as it is a given that he IS a superstar but by that time he might already be a part of the NHL family. The names that in the list are what I thought to be the most recognizable:
Brandon Bochenski
Tony Martensson
Kevin Dallman
Alexi Morozov
Sergei Shirokov
Nick Zherdev
Petr Prucha
Nico Kapanen
There were also Tarasnko and Kuznezov but generally Russian clubs are not likely to allow the younger players to develop with in the KHL.
I think we're all aware that virtually all of the world's best players play in the NHL. That said, this is still the 2nd strongest hockey league in the world, and it's less about seeing these particular players as it is seeing a different style of hockey.
If I purchase tickets, it won't be because I'm dying to see Prucha or Dawes again. Immo or Zherdev, however, I wouldn't mind catching a glimpse of.
I think we're all aware that virtually all of the world's best players play in the NHL. That said, this is still the 2nd strongest hockey league in the world, and it's less about seeing these particular players as it is seeing a different style of hockey.
If I purchase tickets, it won't be because I'm dying to see Prucha or Dawes again. Immo or Zherdev, however, I wouldn't mind catching a glimpse of.
I'm pretty sure you'd be less than impressed. The only reason I'd go would be to see "yuts" or a HOF because watching KHL players on NHL size rink just wouldn't do it for me.
I'm pretty sure you'd be less than impressed. The only reason I'd go would be to see "yuts" or a HOF because watching KHL players on NHL size rink just wouldn't do it for me.
I watch KHL games regularly. I'm well aware of what I'd be in for. It's no NHL, but I'm a fan.
I'd assume the rink would be NHL size, also, but we actually don't know what size rink they'd use. Besides, something tells me whatever clubs they choose to bring over would chock full of former NHLers who know their way around a smaller rink.
I watch KHL games regularly. I'm well aware of what I'd be in for. It's no NHL, but I'm a fan.
I'd assume the rink would be NHL size, also, but we actually don't know what size rink they'd use. Besides, something tells me whatever clubs they choose to bring over would chock full of former NHLers who know their way around a smaller rink.
Good for you for being a fan (sincerely). I watch it too, though the better way to say - I force myself to watch it. I check out Russian sports sites and I want to at least keep up with their fans discussions.
