Schedule

The latest version of the 2009 - 2010 schedule has been released. In looking at the game schedule, the Hawks again start with a ton of road games. This may be a blessing come the end of the season, but for a young team, needing some momentum to get started, this could be difficult. I know that every team plays 36 at home and 36 on the road, but I know that Portland wants to get off to a hot start. This team has been playing catch up for the past several years and with most of the month of October on the road, 11 out of 14, it could make for a tough start. On the other hand, if this young group gets some wins early, bonds on the road, it could make for a really good year. My guess is the team is going to strive to survive the early start.

I know that the ownership group would love to get into the Rose Garden full time. The Garden is newer and fancy, and Paul Allen puts money into keeping the building at the top of it's game... however, for the most part the arena is too big for the Hawks. 3000 fans on a Tuesday has been a big draw, and at times mid week games has had crowds much smaller. 3000 in the MC looks small, but in the big arena, well, it will look deserted. What kind of home ice advantage does that give the team? The MC can be loud with 3000, the RG seems to swallow up the noise of 3000. We will have to see what 18 in the MC and 18 in the RG look like this year... I for one would love to see some real money get spent on updating the MC. We all know the MC needs a new ice surface, and updated facilities. It has to be cheaper then building a whole new rink, doesn't it?

Overall, the Hawks have a preseason game in just over two weeks. Should be interesting to see who hits the ice on the 29th...