Wins and loses least of fans worries


The Hack
Mario Lemieux was quoted as saying on Sunday there is a "slight chance" the Penguins will remain in Pittsburgh after the lease runs out at Mellon Arena after the 2007 season. The local and state government hasn't seriously considered investing in a new facility for the team.

     
 When slot machine gambling was approved for the state many thought this was the answer to Lemieux's quest for funds. More and more it looks that these license will go to an insider. Even outgoing Mayor Tom Murphy has hinted at such an agreement. Without this money the Penguins could be in Kansas City, Houston or Portland by 2008.

      
This comes at a time when the Penguins have probably its best group of young players in history. Sure, they won two Stanley Cups in the early 90's but the majority of those players were developed by other franchises. The 2008 Penguins could have a line-up which boasts of  Crosby,Malkin,Whitney, Christensen, Fleury, Surovy and so on. It could truly be the first Penguin team to do it with its own talent.

        
Chances are it will be in another city. What a shame. This town needs a new entertainment venue. The Civic Arena was built in the early 60's and is now the oldest in the NHL. The people don't want to hear about another tax hike for sports use. Period. They voted against PNC Park and they haven't really had any sense of urgency on the Arena issue.

        
Sports teams do not create economic growth. It has been studied to death by economists for years. Pittsburgh has been shrinking since the 80's and the trend will continue. Our youth population is at an all time low. That is the demographic with the most expendable money.

        
Yet, the fans have responded to new NHL. The Pens are back to over 16,000 a game. The buzz created by Sidney Crosby has rejuvented the interest from all ages of sports fans. Will this excitement all be for nothing?? It is in the hands of politicians and management. The Penguin fans have shown their support but is there an investor out there that can save this team from relocation?