Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports
When it comes to sports, many fans quit attending games once their team’s playoff hopes are gone. That’s certainly the case with the Tampa Bay Lightning who, last night, saw a sellout crowd full of Pittsburgh Penguins fans.
There might be reasons behind this, like the fact most people have to work or attend school on Fridays. If that’s the case, however, why did Tuesday night’s game against the Ottawa Senators and every game before April 2 sell out early, with Lightning fans making both their presence felt and voices heard?
It’s not completely known, but I’ll venture a guess and say the team’s incredibly slim chances of making the postseason have something to do with things. Let’s face it: Most fans don’t enjoy cheering for a team that won’t be playing past the end of this month.
Should this be happening?
Probably not, considering teams feed off their fans. Think about it: Do you want the team to believe quitting is alright before every second of the season has been played? That seems doubtful, but is the message being sent when opposing fans are invading your home without any trouble.
Another important point to make is that true fans should stick by their team through thick and thin. Sure, the Lightning struggled mightily after an incredibly strong start in January. But there’s still reasons to cheer, as Steven Stamkos is currently in a battle with Washington’s Alexander Ovechkin for the Rocket Richard trophy. He’s also only six points behind Sidney Crosby for the Art Ross.
With that being said, I’d like to challenge all Lightning fans. The team has three games remaining on home-ice, so why don’t we show all opponents this is Tampa Bay’s house by going to games and getting loud? Hey, it certainly beats the alternative!
Lauren Burg is a Tampa Bay Lightning and NHL writer for www.RantSports.com. Follow her on Twitter, like her on Facebook and join her Google network.
