I'm not an ignorant fan, I understand the intricacies of MLSE better than most people. You think I've been happy with the way they've been managing the team? Come on now. And if you think that MLSE has no interest in winning a championship, then you don't know what you're talking about. They would make millions of $$$ more if they make the playoffs and millions more if they win the Cup (think of the merchandising, tv revenues, ticket sales, etc). You think they want to lose? That's just stupid. Also, the theory that the Teachers Pension Plan holding the team back is an idiotic theory that makes no business sense. MLSE just hasn't managed the Maple Leafs well at all, but now that all should change with Burke.
Toronto doesn't have dumb fans. The fans in Toronto are impatient, hyper-critical, extremely excitable, and overly optimistic. Many are bandwagon fans. But the thing is, the fans are incredibly loyal. It's the hottest ticket in town.
A true fan supports the team for better or for worse.
And don't tell me I don't have the right to talk.
My original point was regarding the pathetic, lackluster crowd at the Panthers game and comparing that to the sellout crowds at Leafs games. My point was that the Leafs are horrible and still sell out. Even when the Panthers were good, they probably had trouble selling tickets. I don't think a city deserves a franchise if they can't fill at least 1/2 or 2/3 of the seats each game.
If you want to continue this chat, feel free to post in the
NHL thread. No need to hijack this thread.