Vegas Distractions Handicapped Into NHL Game Odds? Franchise Lands in Sin City
With Las Vegas officially granted its first major league sports team, a number of players have sounded off about the many distractions that will come with playing in Sin City. Gambling is just one of a handful of such diversions tied to Vegas.
The league's Board of Governors approved an National Hockey League (NHL) expansion team Wednesday afternoon.
Patrice Bergeron, Boston Bruins:
“Hockey … no I think it’s just obviously it’s a city that’s full of diversity and activities and things to do and a crazy city if you want to put it that way. I’m looking forward to seeing how it’s going to work out.”
Yahoo Sports asked if he was worried about the distractions.
“I think we’re looking forward to it to see how everything unfolds. It’s definitely a fun city and there’s lots to do, but distraction is part of the city so you have to be focused and smart, but I’ve talked to a few employees and local people yesterday and they seem very excited about having a team here. It’s their first professional team so by us getting in first may be a smart move and hopefully it is.”
Jamie Benn, Dallas Stars:
“Exciting. This is a great city, an exciting city. If you’re coming here for a visit or a hockey game it’s fun to be a part of.”
Matt Martin, New York Islanders:
“I think of Vegas as a very fun place. It’s lively. It’s a lot like New York in a lot of ways where there’s always something going on. There’s always a buzz around. I’ve never been here in the winter, but it’s a fun place to come to. Everyone talks about the nightlife and cool parties, but there are a lot of great shows, a lot of great restaurants – like Britney Spears, which we attended the other day. There’s a lot of great things to do and it’s not all partying, it’s not all – I think every time you think of Vegas you think of bachelor parties and partying all night but it’s not the case. There’s great things to do in the city and I think it’s a great thing for the NHL to be a part of."
Shea Weber, Nashville Predators:
“Gambling? I don’t know. Casinos?”
“There’s distractions in every city and in Nashville there’s distractions for the opposing teams. But if you go to Dallas, LA, you go to all these other cities. There’s distractions anywhere you go. Guys are professionals and I don’t think it’s going to be any different or be pulling guys any harder in any other city.”
