Several NHL Teams Already Struggling With Attendance Numbers

At the outset of the NHL season, several teams are grappling with a concerning challenge: dwindling attendance numbers at their games.

Notably, the Washington Capitals saw their impressive 588-game sellout streak come to an end, with attendance dropping significantly after the season opener.

Is it time to be concerned about the NHL attendance numbers to start the season?@JShannonhl was asked about that by @DhaliwalSports.

Full interview..https://t.co/sRmHDssIIv pic.twitter.com/fTDmuCshVk

— Donnie & Dhali (@DonnieandDhali) October 21, 2023

The Winnipeg Jets, Buffalo Sabres, Calgary Flames, and San Jose Sharks have also faced challenges, with both teams failing to sell out their home openers and experiencing notably lower attendance numbers in subsequent games.

There appear to be various factors contributing to this attendance issue.

Financial constraints, including high ticket prices and the cost of concessions, could be dissuading fans from attending games.

NHL Attendance, games on 10/14/23#GoSensGo - 20,011 (107.2%)#VegasBorn - 18,033 (103.8%)#LeafsForever - 18,903 (100.4%)#GoHabsGo - 21,105 (100%)#LGRW - 19,515 (100%)#LetsGoOilers - 18,347 (100%)#StlBlues - 18,096 (100%)#NHLBruins - 17,850 (100%)#SJSharks - 17,435 (100%)…

— NHL News (@PuckReportNHL) October 15, 2023

Additionally, competing with other major sporting events and entertainment options may make it difficult for teams to draw fans to weeknight games early in the season.

Teams may need to consider price adjustments and other strategies to address these challenges and maintain a strong fan base throughout the season. Photo Credit: Sergei Belski-USA TODAY Sports